Mommy'S Lemon Chicken
Juicy chicken tenders coated in creamy lemon yogurt and crunchy Ritz crackers, baked to perfection—ideal for a quick, flavorful family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Thin lemon yogurt with 1 to 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.
- Dip chicken tenders in the lemon yogurt mixture.
- Coat the chicken tenders with crushed Ritz crackers.
- Place the coated chicken tenders in a glass baking dish sprayed with Pam, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes without turning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute regular yogurt for Greek yogurt. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add more lemon juice to the yogurt mixture. Consider using crushed cornflakes instead of Ritz crackers for a different crunch or gluten-free option. This dish is reminiscent of Southern Fried Chicken And Brown Cream Gravy, making it a comforting option for dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon chicken tenders with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They also pair well with rice or quinoa for a heartier option. For a delicious pairing, consider creating a meal featuring Broccoli Chicken Thighs, which complements the flavors of this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are heated through but not dried out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mommy'S Lemon Chicken contains roughly 401 calories, with 19g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 717mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used in place of chicken tenders. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to bake, depending on their thickness.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, you can include a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the lemon yogurt mixture. Alternatively, consider serving with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders and coat them with the yogurt mixture and crumbs ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This saves time on busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).