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
Scale
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.
