Crispy Healthy Baked Chicken Strips Recipe
Introduction
Healthy baked chicken strips are a delicious and lighter alternative to fried chicken. They offer a crispy texture and flavorful taste with minimal oil, making them perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon mixed seasonings (such as paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and seasonings evenly.
- Step 2: Coat each chicken tender thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Step 3: Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack.
- Step 4: Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, spray the chicken strips lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- Try adding Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for a cheesy flavor boost.
- Use whole wheat or panko breadcrumbs for different textures and nutritional profiles.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch for added flavor.
Storage
Store leftover baked chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness, avoiding the microwave if possible as it may soften the coating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before coating to ensure the breadcrumbs stick properly and the chicken cooks evenly.
How do I know when the chicken strips are fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. The coating should be golden brown and crispy.
PrintCrispy Healthy Baked Chicken Strips Recipe
These Healthy Baked Chicken Strips are a wholesome twist on a classic favorite. Using tender chicken strips coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, this recipe offers a deliciously crispy texture without the added fat from frying. Perfect as a nutritious snack or meal addition, these chicken strips are easy to prepare and sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders
Breading
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to crisp the chicken strips as they bake.
- Prepare Breading Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the whole wheat breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Coat Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Dip each tender into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly on all sides.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack to promote even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake Until Crispy: Bake the chicken strips in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or side salad for a balanced meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spray the coated chicken strips lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- You can substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Keywords: healthy chicken strips, baked chicken tenders, low-fat chicken recipe, crispy baked chicken, easy chicken strips
