If you are searching for a dish that bursts with zesty freshness and comforting crispiness, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Imagine tender chicken juicy on the inside, crispy and golden on the outside, all coated in the perfect blend of lemon, pepper, and a touch of honey butter sauce that elevates every bite. This recipe balances bright citrus notes with savory spices, making it irresistible for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even weeknight meals that deserve to feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each serving a distinct purpose to build layers of flavor, moisture, and texture. From the tangy bite of lemon zest to the subtle heat of hot sauce, every component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s both simple and extraordinary.
- 2 lbs chicken tenderloins: Tender and thin chicken pieces perfect for quick marination and frying.
- 1 cup whole buttermilk: Adds moisture and helps tenderize the chicken while infusing flavor.
- 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning: The star seasoning lending brightness and peppery kick, divided for layering flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Brings an intense lemon aroma and freshness.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds natural acidity and brightens the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce: A gentle heat that wakes up the flavors without overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Intensifies savory depth, divided between marinade and dredge.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a gorgeous color, divided between marinade and flour.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a crispy crust; gluten-free options can easily be substituted.
- Peanut or vegetable oil: For frying, chosen for its high smoke point and neutral taste.
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter: Cubed to melt slowly into the honey butter sauce.
- 1/2 cup pure honey: Balances savory and citrus flavors with natural sweetness.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning: Added to the honey butter sauce to carry the flavor through every bite.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest and 1 heaping teaspoon minced garlic: These boost aroma and flavor in the finishing sauce.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by patting your chicken tenderloins dry to ensure the marinade adheres properly. Combine buttermilk with 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning, lemon zest, lemon juice, hot sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and half a teaspoon of smoked paprika in a sealable bag or container. Add the chicken, massage the mixture gently to coat every piece, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight. This step is crucial, as the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken while the seasonings seep in, amplifying the bright and savory flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Flour Dredge
In a shallow dish, whisk together the remaining 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, and all-purpose flour. This flavorful coating will become the crisp, golden crust that perfectly contrasts the juicy interior. Mixing the spices directly into the flour ensures every bite has a burst of lemon pepper goodness and a touch of smoky warmth.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Set a heavy-bottomed pot or deep frying pan over medium-high heat and pour in enough peanut or vegetable oil to achieve a depth that covers the chicken pieces halfway. Heat the oil to around 350-370°F. Using a thermometer here is a great trick to maintain consistent oil temperature for perfectly fried tenders.
Step 4: Dredge and Fry the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Coat each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any extra to prevent clumping. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet ready for frying. Working in batches, carefully fry each piece until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure they’re cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil and keep crispiness intact.
Step 5: Make the Honey Butter Sauce
While the chicken fries, melt the cubed unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the honey, 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil for a moment before removing from the heat. The sauce should be smooth, fragrant, and slightly thickened – it’s the perfect luscious finish that complements the fried chicken beautifully.
Step 6: Toss or Dip Your Chicken
Decide how you want to enjoy your Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Recipe – either toss the hot chicken tenders directly in the warm honey butter sauce for a glossy, full coating or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Both methods are delicious, so feel free to mix it up depending on your mood or guests!
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra something on top takes your presentation from simple to stunning. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thin lemon slices over the tenders for a fresh burst of color and aroma. A sprinkle of extra lemon zest right before serving can also intensify the citrus pop that defines this dish.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with bright, fresh sides to balance the richness of the fried chicken and honey butter sauce. Consider classic coleslaw for crunch and tang, roasted asparagus with a dash of lemon juice, or a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic parmesan fries make irresistible companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dinner party or kid-friendly meal, serve these tenders on a platter with small cups of assorted sauces like ranch, spicy mayo, or additional honey butter for dipping. You can also build a playful “chicken tender bar” where guests add toppings like shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or different seasoning blends. This approach makes the meal interactive and elevates the humble chicken tender into an experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the tenders as crispy as possible, place a paper towel in the container to absorb extra moisture. It’s best to keep the honey butter sauce separate to prevent sogginess and then drizzle or dip right before eating.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this recipe ahead of time or save leftovers for later, freezing is a great option. Freeze the fried chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container once solid. They will keep well for up to two months. Freeze the honey butter sauce separately in a sealed container; this helps maintain the best texture and flavor upon reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crisp again. Reheat the honey butter sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm, then toss or serve alongside. Avoid reheating chicken in the microwave alone, which can make it rubbery and soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be sliced into strips and marinated just like tenderloins. Keep in mind they might require a slightly longer cooking time depending on thickness.
Is there a gluten-free option for the flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for frying. Make sure it’s a blend that includes a starch for the best crispy result.
Can I bake the chicken tenders instead of frying?
Certainly! For a healthier take, bake the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For maximum flavor and tenderness, marinate for at least 3 hours. Overnight marination is ideal for the best infusion of lemon pepper goodness.
Is the honey butter sauce necessary?
While the chicken tenders are delicious on their own, the honey butter sauce adds a delightful balance of sweetness and richness that makes this recipe stand out. It’s definitely worth including!
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Recipe will become a quick favorite you’ll reach for again and again. The crispy, tangy, sweet, and savory combination creates an unforgettable meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. Whether served for a casual family dinner or shared with friends, these tenders bring joy and a little sunshine to the table. Give it a try—you’ll love the bright flavors and comforting crunch as much as I do!
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Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 3 hours to overnight marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes (including marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders recipe features tender, juicy chicken tenders marinated in a zesty blend of buttermilk, lemon juice, and spices, then coated in a flavorful seasoned flour and fried until crispy. Finished with a luscious honey butter sauce infused with lemon pepper and garlic, this dish delivers a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors making it an irresistible appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs chicken tenderloins (about 14 tenders)
- 1 cup whole buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Flour Dredge
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (see notes for gluten-free needs)
- 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Frying
- Peanut or vegetable oil, for frying
Honey Butter Sauce
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup pure honey
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 heaping teaspoon minced garlic
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Place them into a resealable bag or container and add the buttermilk, 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, hot sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Seal the container and massage the ingredients together to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 3 hours or ideally overnight to infuse flavor and tenderize the chicken.
- Prepare Flour Dredge: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with the remaining 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Whisk thoroughly to mix the spices evenly into the flour, creating a flavorful coating for the chicken.
- Heat Oil: Pour peanut or vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to a temperature between 350°F and 370°F, using a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the heat for optimal frying results.
- Dredge Chicken: Remove each chicken tender from the marinade and coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet or plate while preparing to fry.
- Fry Chicken: Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each batch for 2-3 minutes or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. After frying, transfer the tenders to a wire rack to drain excess oil and stay crisp.
- Make Honey Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the cubed unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the honey, lemon pepper seasoning, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately remove from heat to preserve the vibrant flavors.
- Toss or Dip: Toss the freshly fried chicken tenders in the honey butter sauce to coat evenly or serve the sauce alongside as a dipping option. This step enhances the tenders with a glossy, flavorful finish.
- Serve: Serve the lemon pepper chicken tenders immediately while hot and crispy for the best texture and taste experience.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for frying.
- Ensure oil temperature remains steady during frying to achieve a crispy and not greasy crust.
- Marinating the chicken overnight maximizes tenderness and flavor penetration.
- Use fresh lemon zest and lemon juice for the brightest citrus flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
