Crispy Baked Chicken Strips Recipe

The Ultimate Comfort Food

Imagine coming home after a long day, the smell of golden, perfectly crisped chicken strips wafting through the air. You’re about to dig into something that’s crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside – your favorite comfort food that’s healthier than the fried version. Crispy baked chicken strips are exactly what your weeknight meals need, offering a satisfying, easy-to-make dish that everyone in the family will love.

But not only do these crispy chicken strips provide the perfect balance of flavor and texture, they’re also a much healthier option compared to the deep-fried variety. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner, serving them for a gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this crispy baked chicken strips recipe is your go-to solution.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know – from the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions to achieve that irresistible crispiness, as well as some tips and tricks for making them even better. Ready to create the most delicious baked chicken strips? Let’s get started!

If you love chicken but are looking for other easy baked dinner recipes, you might find some inspiration to expand your meal rotation.

Crispy Baked Chicken Strips Recipe – Your New Go-To Meal

Why Choose Baked Over Fried?

When it comes to chicken strips, the choice between baked or fried is often the first decision. But there’s a clear winner for anyone looking to indulge without the added calories and grease. Here’s why you should opt for crispy baked chicken strips:

• Healthier Option: Unlike traditional fried chicken strips that are soaked in oil, baked chicken strips are coated with a thin layer of oil or cooking spray, making them a much lighter choice. This results in fewer calories and less fat, without sacrificing that much-loved crunch.
• No Mess, No Fuss: Baking eliminates the mess of frying. No hot oil to splatter and no greasy cleanup required afterward. You can enjoy your meal without dealing with the hassle of frying.
• Crispy Without the Calories: One of the best parts of baked chicken strips is how crispy they get. With the right technique, you’ll get a golden, crunchy coating, but without the excess grease that comes with deep frying.
• Versatile and Easy: Baking these strips allows you to flavor them in countless ways. Whether you’re looking to keep it simple with a few seasonings or add your favorite spices, the options are endless.

For more chicken-based meal ideas, check out this guide on the most popular chicken dish to explore different styles of chicken dishes.

Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Strips

To make the perfect crispy baked chicken strips, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. These pantry staples work together to create a golden, crunchy exterior and a tender, juicy interior that everyone will rave about.

Pro Tip: You can always add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. It helps to create a richer texture and adds a bit of savory goodness to the chicken strips.

Want to explore different ways to season and cook chicken? You might like how to cook chorizo for a flavorful alternative.

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Strips: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to make crispy baked chicken strips? Follow this simple step-by-step guide to get perfectly crispy chicken every time.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken into Strips:
   Start by cutting your chicken breasts into strips, about 1 inch wide. This ensures the pieces cook evenly and results in a nice, uniform bite every time.
2. Pat Dry:
   Once your chicken is cut, pat the strips dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the breading stick better, creating a crispier exterior.

If you’re planning meals for the week, you can also check out leftover rotisserie chicken recipes for another way to enjoy chicken.

Breading the Chicken Strips

1. Set Up Three Dipping Stations:
   Prepare three shallow bowls for the breading process:
   • Dish 1: Mix flour with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
   • Dish 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
   • Dish 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, and any additional spices you like.
2. Coat the Chicken:
   For each chicken strip, follow this process:
   • Dip the chicken into the flour, ensuring it is evenly coated.
   • Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Finally, coat the chicken with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere.

Baking the Chicken Strips

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving a crispy coating without overcooking the chicken.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. You can also use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air circulation, which helps the chicken crisp up even more.
3. Place the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:
   Lay the breaded chicken strips out in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
4. Coat with Oil:
   Lightly spray the chicken strips with olive oil or cooking spray. This small step ensures they’ll become golden brown and crispy during baking.
5. Bake the Chicken:
   Bake the chicken strips for 15-20 minutes. Halfway through, flip the chicken strips to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. Your chicken strips are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown.

For more chicken-based meal inspiration, see chicken and dressing recipes to try another comforting dish.

Tips for the Perfect Crispy Chicken Strips

Achieving the perfect crispy texture is all about the details. Here are some tips to elevate your chicken strips:

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving an extra-crispy coating. They’re lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, which results in a crispier texture.
• Space Out the Chicken: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Giving each chicken strip space allows the heat to circulate properly and ensures even cooking and crispiness.
• Sprinkle Parmesan Cheese: For a richer, more flavorful crust, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture. This will give your chicken an extra savory flavor and enhance the crispiness.
• Rest the Chicken: After baking, let your chicken strips rest for a minute or two. This helps retain their juiciness and ensures they’re tender inside while remaining crispy on the outside.

For a chicken-based breakfast, you can explore chicken breakfast recipes for some early morning meal ideas.

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Baked Chicken Strips

While crispy baked chicken strips are delicious on their own, you can take them to the next level with these serving suggestions:

• Dip It Right:
  Serve your chicken strips with an assortment of dips, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a bit of heat.
• Pair With Fries:
  Serve your chicken strips with crispy fries for the ultimate comfort food combo. You can make your own fries or opt for healthier oven-baked versions.
• Add a Side Salad:
  For a balanced meal, pair your crispy chicken strips with a fresh, green salad. A tangy vinaigrette or creamy ranch dressing complements the chicken perfectly.
• Meal Prep:
  These chicken strips are perfect for meal prepping. Make a batch at the start of the week and pair them with different sides for easy lunches and dinners all week long.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Wondering about the nutritional value of these crispy baked chicken strips? Here’s a quick breakdown:

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

FAQs About Crispy Baked Chicken Strips

Can I use chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken tenders are already pre-cut into strips, making them a convenient option. Just follow the same breading and baking process, and you’ll have perfectly crispy chicken strips in no time.

Can I freeze baked chicken strips?

Yes, you can freeze these chicken strips for later use. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.

How can I make the chicken strips even crispier?

For an extra-crunchy texture, try double-breading your chicken. After dipping in the flour, egg, and panko, dip them in the egg and breadcrumbs again before baking. This double layer will give you a crunchier crust.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! To make these chicken strips gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Conclusion – Enjoy Crispy Baked Chicken Strips Anytime

Crispy baked chicken strips are the perfect solution when you want a healthier version of a classic comfort food. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make delicious chicken strips that are crunchy, juicy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a meal, snack, or part of a larger spread, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.

So, grab your ingredients and start baking your own crispy chicken strips today. Once you try them, you’ll never look back!

Want more meal ideas? Browse these easy baked dinner recipes and find your next favorite dish!