Crispy Lemon Garlic Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

• (1 1/2 pounds) chicken tenders
• (1 cup) buttermilk
• (1 cup) panko breadcrumbs
• (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• (1 teaspoon) garlic powder
• (1 teaspoon) onion powder
• (1 teaspoon) paprika
• (1/2 teaspoon) salt
• (1/2 teaspoon) black pepper
• (—) vegetable oil for frying
• (2 tablespoons) chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• For the Lemon Garlic Dipping Sauce
• (1/2 cup) mayonnaise
• (1 tablespoon) fresh lemon juice
• (1 teaspoon) Dijon mustard
• (1 clove) garlic, minced
• (to taste) salt and pepper

Method

1. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Stir gently to coat and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the chicken: Remove tenders from the marinade, let excess drip off, and press each one firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat.
4. Fry the tenders: Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to around 350°F. Fry the tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve: Arrange the crispy tenders on a platter, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve with the lemon-garlic dipping sauce.