- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the chicken tenders, coating them well.
- Let marinate for 15–30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add butter and olive oil.
- Add the chicken tenders and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Reduce heat to low and add remaining lemon juice and an extra tablespoon of butter to the pan.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken tenders for extra flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with extra lemon slices.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of water or lemon juice.
Variants & Customizations
- Garlic Parmesan Version – Add ½ cup grated Parmesan before serving.
- Creamy Lemon Butter Sauce – Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream at the end.
- Grilled Version – Instead of pan-searing, grill tenders for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Spicy Kick – Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
FAQ
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
✔️ Yes! Slice chicken breasts into strips for a similar result.
2. How do I make this dish dairy-free?
✔️ Substitute butter with vegan butter or extra olive oil.
3. Can I bake these instead of pan-searing?
✔️ Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. What’s the best way to prevent dry chicken?
✔️ Do not overcook—remove tenders when they reach 165°F (75°C).
5. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
✔️ Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
These Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders are bright, flavorful, and incredibly tender, making them a go-to meal for any occasion! Quick, easy, and packed with citrusy goodness, they’re sure to become a family favorite
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