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Chicken Tenders in a Cajun Lemon Butter Sauce

Chicken Tenders in a Cajun Lemon Butter Sauce

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  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Frying (optionally baking)
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun
  • Diet: Gluten-Free optional

Description

Chicken Tenders in a Cajun Lemon Butter Sauce feature crispy, golden chicken tenders coated with spicy Cajun seasoning and smothered in a silky, tangy lemon butter sauce. This quick and easy dish balances bold flavors with comforting textures, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or toppings for salads and pasta.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Chicken Tenders

  • 1 lb chicken tenders

Cajun Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or a Cajun blend)
  • Salt to taste

Coating

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Optional: 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Frying

  • Olive oil or vegetable oil (enough for frying)

Cajun Lemon Butter Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice of 1 fresh lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons chicken broth or water

Garnish (optional)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken tenders. Lightly season with salt and a generous sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to infuse flavor right from the start.
  2. Coat the Tenders: Set up a breading station with flour mixed with Cajun seasoning, beaten eggs, and optionally panko breadcrumbs. Dip each tender first in the seasoned flour, then in egg, and then again in flour or breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
  3. Fry Until Golden: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350–375°F. Fry the tenders in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  4. Make the Cajun Lemon Butter Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in fresh lemon juice, a pinch of Cajun seasoning, and chicken broth or water. Let the sauce simmer briefly to combine flavors and thicken slightly.
  5. Combine and Serve: Return the fried tenders to the skillet with the sauce, gently tossing to coat evenly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Notes

  • Press the breading firmly onto each tender to prevent it from falling off during frying.
  • Maintain oil temperature between 350 to 375°F for crispy, non-greasy tenders.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to keep oil temperature steady and ensure even cooking.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor; it brightens the sauce wonderfully.
  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning amount in both breading and sauce to suit your preferred heat level.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 tenders (approx. 150g)
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg

Find it online: https://cooktune.com/chicken-tenders-in-a-cajun-lemon-butter-sauce/