Prepare to be absolutely captivated by these **Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips** – a truly irresistible culinary creation! Each tender strip of chicken is generously coated in a vibrant, zesty lemon pepper seasoning, then lightly breaded to achieve an exquisite crunch. Once perfectly fried to golden perfection, they are generously glazed with a delectable, sweet, and tangy honey-lemon butter sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your palate. This recipe elevates classic chicken strips to a gourmet experience, making them a standout dish for any occasion.
There’s simply no overstating how much my family adores this **lemon pepper chicken strips recipe**. It has become a consistent favorite, disappearing from the plate almost as quickly as it’s served. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its sensational taste but also in its incredible versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re looking for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer for a lively gathering, a satisfying and flavorful snack for an afternoon pick-me-up, or a hearty, delicious main course for a weeknight dinner, these crispy, honey-glazed chicken tenders fit the bill flawlessly. Their vibrant flavors and delightful textures make them a go-to choice that everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts, will undoubtedly enjoy.
If you’re as passionate about the bright and bold flavors of lemon pepper as we are, you absolutely must explore some of our other cherished recipes. Dive into the sticky-sweet and savory goodness of my Lemon Pepper Honey Wings, perfect for game day or a casual get-together. Or, for a lighter, equally flavorful option, try the Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders, which offer a healthier twist without compromising on that signature zesty taste. These recipes truly highlight the incredible potential of lemon pepper seasoning, proving it’s a staple in our kitchen for a reason!
Essential Ingredients for Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips
Crafting these sensational Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips requires a thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that build layers of flavor and texture. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need to gather to prepare this incredible dish. Exact measurements can be found in the comprehensive recipe card located further down the page.
- Chicken Tenderloins: The heart of our dish, chicken tenderloins are naturally lean and cook quickly, making them ideal for strips. While you can purchase pre-cut tenderloins for convenience, cutting your own from larger boneless, skinless chicken breasts allows for greater control over size and thickness. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture in every bite.
- Buttermilk Marinade: This essential marinade is the secret to exceptionally juicy and flavorful chicken. It’s a vibrant blend combining the creamy tang of buttermilk with the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice and zest, the bold punch of lemon pepper seasoning, a touch of salt, and a hint of hot sauce for a subtle kick. The lactic acid in the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, while the citrus and spices infuse it with an incredible depth of flavor that penetrates beyond the surface.
- Flour Mixture: When paired with the buttermilk-marinated chicken, this dry mixture creates a wonderfully crispy and savory coating. It’s a carefully balanced blend of all-purpose flour for structure, cornstarch for extra crispness and a lighter texture, and a touch of baking soda to promote a delicate, airy crunch. Garlic powder and paprika add aromatic warmth and a beautiful golden hue, complementing the lemon pepper seasoning that is also incorporated into this dredge.
- Honey Sauce: This sweet and savory glaze is what truly elevates these chicken strips. Made with rich melted butter, aromatic minced garlic, golden honey for sweetness, more fresh lemon juice for brightness, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat, and balanced with salt and pepper, this sauce is designed for tossing the fried chicken. It creates a sticky, irresistible coating that balances the zesty and savory notes of the chicken perfectly.
- Oil for Frying: Choosing the right oil is crucial for achieving that desired golden-brown crispness without imparting unwanted flavors. Opt for an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil. These oils can withstand the higher temperatures required for deep frying, ensuring your chicken cooks thoroughly and crisps beautifully without burning.
Crafting Your Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions to create perfectly crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips with a luscious honey glaze. Each step is designed to guide you toward culinary success.
Step 2: Whisk the Buttermilk Marinade. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, one tablespoon of the lemon pepper seasoning, fresh lemon juice, vibrant lemon zest, a teaspoon of salt, and a dash of hot sauce. Whisk all these ingredients together until they are thoroughly blended. This mixture will serve as the flavorful base that tenderizes and seasons the chicken from within.
Step 4: Prepare the Crispy Breading. In a separate, shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, the remaining one tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, baking soda, and paprika. Use a fork or whisk to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are uniformly combined. This will be your breading station for creating that irresistible crunchy coating.
Step 6: Heat the Frying Oil. Select a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or a wok for deep frying. Pour in enough oil (such as vegetable or canola oil) to reach a depth of about 2-3 inches, ensuring the chicken tenders can be mostly submerged. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small pinch of flour into the oil; it should sizzle vigorously but not burn instantly.
Step 8: Repeat and Drain. Once a batch of chicken tenders is cooked, use tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the oil. Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow excess oil to drain. This helps maintain their crispiness. Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken tenders, ensuring the oil returns to the correct temperature between batches.
Expert Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips
- Always Pat Dry the Chicken: This initial step is non-negotiable. Excess moisture on the chicken surface prevents the marinade from adhering effectively and the breading from becoming truly crispy. Use paper towels to blot the chicken until it’s as dry as possible before moving on to seasoning and marinating.
- Don’t Skip the Buttermilk Marinade: The buttermilk is a game-changer. Its mild acidity tenderizes the chicken, resulting in incredibly juicy and succulent strips. It also helps the flour coating stick better, creating a perfect crust. Even a 30-minute soak makes a noticeable difference.
- Use Fresh Lemon Zest: While lemon juice provides acidity, fresh lemon zest contains aromatic oils that contribute a much brighter, more intense lemon flavor without adding extra liquid. Always zest your lemons before juicing them!
- Monitor Oil Temperature Closely: Consistency is key when frying. Maintain a steady medium heat, ideally around 375°F (190°C). If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the exterior will burn before the inside cooks through. A kitchen thermometer is your best friend here.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Frying Pan: Frying in batches is essential. Adding too many chicken tenders to the pan at once will drastically drop the oil temperature, leading to soggy, poorly cooked chicken. Give your chicken strips space to fry evenly and achieve that perfect crisp.
Delightful Serving Ideas for Your Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips
These versatile Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips are incredibly flavorful on their own, but pairing them with the right side dishes can transform your meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to complement their zesty, sweet, and savory profile:
With Sidedish: For a comforting and complete meal, serve your chicken strips alongside classic, hearty sides. The creamy textures and earthy flavors provide a wonderful contrast to the bright chicken. Consider: Air Fryer French Fries for an extra crispy companion, indulgent Cheesy Mashed Potatoes, vibrant Easy Mixed Vegetables for a nutritious balance, or tender Garlic Parmesan Green Beans for a savory green addition.
With Salad: To lighten the meal or add a refreshing element, a crisp salad is an excellent choice. The fresh greens and tangy dressings beautifully cut through the richness of the fried chicken. Try a Simple House Salad with a light vinaigrette, a vibrant Easy Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad for a bold and creamy side, or a refreshing Easy Greek White Bean Salad for a Mediterranean twist.
Storing and Reheating Your Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your delicious Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips even after the initial meal. These methods ensure they remain flavorful and as close to their original crispy texture as possible.
Storing: Allow the chicken fingers to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the breading soggy. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will maintain their quality and flavor for approximately 3-4 days.
To Reheat: To bring back that delightful crispy exterior, reheating in the oven or air fryer is highly recommended over a microwave, which tends to make fried foods soft. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Reheat for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is crispy once more. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Freezing: For longer-term storage, you can freeze these chicken strips, ideally without the honey glaze to preserve texture. After frying, allow the chicken tenders to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a heavy-duty zip-top freezer bag or another airtight freezer-safe container. They can be stored for 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them from frozen in the oven or air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C) until crispy and heated through, typically 15-20 minutes. Apply the honey glaze fresh once they are warmed and ready to serve.
Explore Alternative Cooking Methods for Crispy Chicken
While deep frying delivers an unparalleled crispness, these Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips can also be prepared using alternative cooking methods that offer a lighter touch without sacrificing much of the flavor. Whether you prefer baking for a healthier option or air frying for quick convenience, here’s how to adapt the recipe:
Bake: For a less oil-intensive approach, baking is an excellent choice. Preheat your oven to a robust 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and aid in cleanup. Follow steps 1 to 5 of the original recipe, preparing your chicken with the buttermilk marinade and breading. Once breaded, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch each other, which allows for even air circulation and crisping. For an extra golden and crispy crust, lightly spritz the top of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or brush with a thin layer of oil. Bake the chicken tenders for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and beautifully golden brown. Flip them halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning and crispness on both sides. Once baked, proceed with preparing and tossing in the honey-lemon butter glaze as per the original recipe.
Air Fry: The air fryer is a fantastic tool for achieving a crispy exterior with minimal oil, making it a popular choice for chicken strips. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C). To prevent sticking, lightly coat the basket of your air fryer with a bit of cooking oil. Proceed by following steps 1 to 5 of the original recipe to marinate and bread your chicken tenders. Arrange the breaded tenders in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spread out and do not overlap. This proper spacing is crucial for allowing hot air to circulate freely around each piece, which is essential for achieving a truly crispy texture. Depending on the capacity of your air fryer, you may need to cook in multiple batches. For that extra crispy finish, lightly coat the top of the tenders with a quick spritz of oil. Air fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C) and boasts a delightful golden-brown crispness. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your tenders and your specific air fryer model, so check for doneness and adjust as needed. Once air-fried, continue with the original recipe for glazing with the honey-lemon butter sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a perfectly acceptable substitute for tenderloins. To prepare them, simply slice the chicken breasts lengthwise into long, thinner portions, aiming for pieces that are roughly the same size and thickness as tenderloins. This ensures even cooking and consistent texture, mirroring the original recipe’s results.
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily create a homemade substitute. To one cup of regular milk (dairy or non-dairy), add either 1 tablespoon of white vinegar OR 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice (do not use both). Stir the mixture gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. The milk will slightly curdle and thicken, becoming a passable substitute for buttermilk in recipes. This method provides the closest alternative in terms of acidity and tenderizing properties.
For deep frying, it’s best to use oils with a high smoke point and neutral flavor. Excellent choices include vegetable oil, canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures required for frying without burning or imparting off-flavors to your chicken.
Several factors contribute to maximum crispiness. Firstly, ensure your chicken is patted very dry before marinating. Secondly, the addition of cornstarch and baking soda to the flour mixture helps create a lighter, crispier coating. Thirdly, maintain the correct oil temperature (around 350-375°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Finally, draining the fried chicken on a wire rack allows air circulation, preventing moisture from building up and softening the crust.
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. For the breading, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum (or add a pinch if it doesn’t). The rest of the ingredients, including the buttermilk marinade and honey glaze, are typically gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Discover More Delicious Chicken Tender Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with these Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of chicken tender recipes offers a wide array of flavors and cooking styles to keep your family delighted. From baked to air-fried, and a variety of exciting seasonings, there’s a chicken tender recipe for every craving and occasion. Explore these other fantastic options:
- Baked Panko Chicken Tenders: For an extra-crispy, oven-baked alternative that’s lighter yet satisfying.
- KFC Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders: If you crave bold heat and incredible spice, these tenders deliver an authentic kick.
- Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Tenders: Perfect for grilling season, these tenders are infused with a sweet and tangy honey mustard flavor.
- Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Strips: Achieve incredible crunch with minimal oil, making these a healthier and quicker option.
- Baked Buffalo Chicken Tenders: All the classic flavor of buffalo wings in a convenient tender form, baked to perfection.
With its straightforward preparation and utterly irresistible flavor profile, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips recipe is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. It’s the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something zesty, sweet, savory, and wonderfully crispy, ensuring every bite is a moment of pure culinary delight.
If you try this delightful recipe or any of my other cherished recipes, please consider taking a moment to **leave a star rating** and a comment in the section below. Your feedback and ratings are incredibly valuable and help others discover and enjoy these dishes too! Also, make sure to follow me at Cookin’ With Mima on Facebook |Instagram |Pinterest for all of my latest social posts, kitchen tips, and delicious new recipes. Let’s create something wonderful together!
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Lemon Pepper Chicken Strips
Ingredients
The Chicken
- ▢ 2 lbs chicken tenderloins
- ▢ 1 cup buttermilk
- ▢ 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasonings, divided
- ▢ 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ▢ 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
- ▢ 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- ▢ 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ▢ ¼ cup cornstarch
- ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ▢ 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ▢ 1 teaspoon paprika
- ▢ Oil, for frying
Honey Butter Sauce
- ▢ ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ▢ 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ▢ ⅓ cup honey
- ▢ 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ▢ 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ▢ ½ teaspoon salt
- ▢ ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken tenders with a kitchen towel and set them aside.
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and hot sauce. Mix well.
- Add the chicken tenders to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are completely coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, the remaining 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, baking soda, and paprika. Mix well and set aside.
- Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk and immediately dredge them in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Repeat with the remaining chicken tenders.
- Heat a wok with oil for deep frying the chicken tenders.
- Once the oil is heated, carefully add the chicken tenders and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, crispy, and golden brown.
- Drain the oil and transfer the chicken tenders to a bowl. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken tenders.
- Meanwhile, prepare the honey sauce: In a skillet, melt butter. Once melted, add garlic and fry for a minute. Stir in honey, lemon juice, pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Pour the prepared honey sauce over the fried chicken tenders and toss them well to coat.
- Garnish the lemon pepper chicken fingers with lemon zest and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Pat dry the chicken before seasoning to ensure proper adherence of breading and crispier results.
- Marinate: The buttermilk marination is crucial for tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with flavor; do not skip this step for optimal results.
- Use fresh lemon zest for a brighter, more vibrant lemon flavor in both the marinade and as a garnish.
- Oil temperature: Maintain a consistent medium heat, around 375 F (190°C), when frying to ensure chicken cooks through without burning and achieves maximum crispness.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan; cook in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure each piece fries evenly to a golden crisp.
Nutrition
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