Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders: A Citrusy Delight!

Imagine tender, golden chicken tenders glistening in a rich, buttery lemon sauce, the citrusy aroma wafting through your kitchen. This dish brings a zesty twist to classic chicken tenders, turning them into a gourmet meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish to impress guests, these Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders deliver every time.

This recipe celebrates the bright, sunny flavor of lemons paired with the comforting richness of butter. It’s a meal that strikes the perfect balance between tangy and savory, with just a hint of spice to keep things exciting. The best part? It comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a must-have for your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter creates a luscious sauce that’s truly irresistible.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, serve it with your favorite sides, or add a touch of creaminess—it’s versatile enough to suit any palate.
• Healthy Comfort Food: At approximately 280 kcal per serving, it’s a light yet indulgent dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1.5 pounds chicken tenders
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for garnish)

How to Make Zesty Lemon Butter Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Season the Chicken

In a medium bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken tenders in this spice mix, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. This step infuses the chicken with bold, earthy flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted and slightly foamy, add the chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The tenders should be juicy with a light crust. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Lemon-Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—be careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring to combine. If you love a little heat, add the optional hot sauce and red pepper flakes at this stage.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom—these add depth and richness to the sauce. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. The sauce will thicken slightly and become glossy.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken tenders to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat them in the lemon-butter sauce. Let them heat through for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and vibrant lemon slices. Serve immediately while warm and fragrant.

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