If you’re craving a dish that combines bright citrus notes with rich, silky butter and tender, juicy chicken, you are going to absolutely love this Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels both comforting and fresh, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. The lemon’s zing perfectly balances the buttery goodness, making every bite a delightful dance of flavors that’s impossible to forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but pack a punch in flavor and texture. From the fresh lemon juice that adds vibrant brightness to the garlic that deepens the savory notes, every component plays an essential role in creating this irresistible dish.
- 1 pound Chicken Tenders: Choose fresh, high-quality tenders for the best tenderness and flavor.
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter: Unsalted allows you to control the saltiness and creates a rich, luscious sauce.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice delivers that bright and zesty punch you want.
- 1 unit Zest of Lemon: Adds an extra burst of aroma and lemon flavor without acidity.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic brings a lovely depth and savory richness.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: The key to enhancing every natural flavor in the chicken and sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity to balance the lemon.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: Complements the lemon and garlic with its earthy, herbaceous notes.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped: Optional but recommended for a fresh color pop and brightness on top.
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by rinsing your chicken tenders under cold water and drying them thoroughly with paper towels. This step helps remove any packaging residue and ensures your chicken cooks evenly and browns perfectly.
Step 2: Marinate for Maximum Flavor
In a large bowl, combine the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Toss the chicken tenders in this zesty marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Let them soak up all those vibrant flavors for at least 30 minutes; this is where the magic really begins!
Step 3: Melt Butter, Get Ready to Sizzle
Place your skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter gently. Be mindful not to let it burn—the aim is a smooth, golden base that will envelop your chicken with that luscious buttery goodness.
Step 4: Cook Chicken to Golden Perfection
Take the chicken tenders out of the marinade and place them in the hot butter. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden brown crust and are cooked through. The aroma at this point is sure to make your mouth water.
Step 5: Add that Signature Lemon Zest
Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the tenders. This step gives the dish an additional layer of fresh, citrusy aroma that elevates the flavor to the next level.
Step 6: Toss in Butter Sauce and Finish
Remove the pan from the heat and carefully toss the tender chicken pieces in the buttery sauce remaining in the pan, ensuring each bite is coated in that flavorful lemon butter mixture. This step creates the silky glaze that makes this meal unforgettable.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Transfer your beautifully cooked chicken tenders to a serving plate and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and subtle herbaceous freshness. Get ready to dig in—you’ve just made something truly special!
How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the best choice to garnish these chicken tenders. It adds a lovely pop of green, a hint of peppery freshness, and complements the lemon butter without overpowering it. You can also add thin lemon slices for a decorative touch and an extra zing.
Side Dishes
The versatility of this Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe shines through when selecting sides. Serve alongside fluffy white rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up that delicious sauce. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli provide a nice balance with some crunch and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try plating your chicken tenders over a bed of garlic butter pasta or quinoa tossed with lemon and herbs. You could also skewer the tenders as delightful finger food for a party platter, arranged with fresh lemon wedges and parsley sprigs for a stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them well-sealed preserves the delicate flavors and prevents the chicken from drying out, so you can enjoy your delicious meal again with minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freezing is an option. Place the tenders in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Stored properly, they can last up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken tenders gently in a skillet over low to medium heat to keep the butter sauce from separating. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power and cover the dish to retain moisture. Avoid overheating to keep the tenders tender and succulent.
FAQs
Can I use lemon zest from bottled lemon instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon zest can work in a pinch, fresh lemon zest offers a much brighter and more intense flavor and aroma, which is key to this dish’s signature taste.
Is it okay to use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
You can substitute chicken breasts, but slice them into tender-sized strips to ensure even cooking and maintain the tender texture that makes this recipe so delightful.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil or vegan butter. The flavor will still shine, though the texture of the sauce will be slightly different.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes is ideal to infuse the lemon and garlic flavors fully, but you can marinate it up to 2 hours for an even more pronounced taste without compromising the texture.
What wine pairs well with Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe?
A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the bright citrus and buttery notes beautifully, elevating the dining experience to a special occasion.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe is hands down one of my all-time favorites to whip up when I want something simple, flavorful, and impressive. It’s the kind of dish that welcomes you home after a busy day or impresses friends without hours in the kitchen. Don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients, follow these steps, and indulge in the magic of lemon and butter teamed up with tender chicken. You’ll be so glad you did!
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Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders recipe offers a deliciously tangy and buttery flavor combination that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Marinated in fresh lemon juice and aromatic herbs, the tender chicken pieces are pan-cooked to a golden brown and coated in a rich lemon butter sauce, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound Chicken Tenders (fresh, high-quality)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
Sauce and Garnish
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter
- 1 unit Zest of Lemon (freshly grated)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate, letting them marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
- Melt the Butter: Place a skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter carefully, making sure it doesn’t burn. This butter will form the base of your sauce.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then place them in the skillet. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Add Lemon Zest: Sprinkle the freshly grated lemon zest over the cooked chicken to enhance the citrus aroma and taste immediately after cooking.
- Coat Chicken with Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat and gently toss the chicken tenders in the lemon butter sauce to evenly coat them with the delicious buttery glaze.
- Serve: Plate the chicken tenders and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides and enjoy.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is crucial for deep flavor infusion.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best brightness and aroma.
- Be careful when melting butter to avoid browning it, which can alter flavor.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Fresh parsley garnish is optional but adds a nice fresh color contrast.
- Pair well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
