Description
Crispy Hot Honey Lemon Feta Chicken Tenders feature juicy chicken tenders coated in a crunchy Parmesan and panko crust, baked until golden and served with a creamy whipped lemon feta sauce. Finished with a drizzle of sweet and spicy hot honey, fresh parsley, and lemon wedges, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe delivers the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, tangy, savory, and sweet flavors. Perfect for family dinners, game day, meal prep, or entertaining.
Ingredients
2 lbs (900 g) chicken tenders
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 oz (170 g) feta cheese
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 garlic clove
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons hot honey
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Lightly grease with olive oil.
Place the flour into one shallow bowl and the beaten eggs into another.
In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Coat each chicken tender in flour, dip into the eggs, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking tray and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, pan-fry for 4 to 5 minutes per side.
Meanwhile, combine the feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, and black pepper in a food processor and blend until smooth. Add a splash of water or olive oil if needed.
Spread the whipped lemon feta onto a serving platter or serve as a dipping sauce.
Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on top or alongside the sauce.
Drizzle generously with hot honey.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
Notes
Pat the chicken dry before breading for maximum crispiness.
Press the breadcrumb coating firmly onto each tender.
Do not overcrowd the baking tray to ensure even browning.
Store the feta sauce separately from the chicken.
Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer and drizzle with hot honey just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean