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Parmesan Baked Chicken Strips
What if you could enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken strips without the guilt of frying? Parmesan baked chicken strips offer a healthier yet equally delicious alternative that will satisfy your cravings without the added calories. With this recipe, you can prepare a delightful dish that boasts both flavor and texture, and all it takes is a few simple ingredients. Ready to dive in?
Ingredients List
To create the perfect Parmesan baked chicken strips, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Make sure they are fresh for optimal flavor.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that rich, cheesy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: You can use panko for a crunchier texture.
- 2 large eggs: These will help the cheese and breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Enhances the herby aroma.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for balancing flavors.
Potential substitutions: If you want a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
Timing
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
This is a quick recipe that saves you a significant amount of time, as most traditional chicken strip recipes can take up to 90 minutes preparation and cooking combined – that’s a whopping 20% more time than this one!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even cooking and that crispy texture we all desire when it comes to baked chicken strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, combine eggs and whisk until frothy. In the second, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Leave the third dish empty for the chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into strips about 1-inch wide. Dip each strip first into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken strips on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out to allow for even baking.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and golden brown. For maximum crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Allow to cool slightly before serving. These chicken strips are perfect on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutritional Information
For each serving of Parmesan baked chicken strips (approximately 4 strips):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
This dish is a great source of protein and provides essential nutrients, making it a suitable option for both weight management and muscle maintenance.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Considering a lighter version? Here are some suggestions:
- Substitute olive oil spray for oil in the recipe to reduce calories and fat.
- Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber.
- Consider air frying instead of baking for a crispier texture with less oil.
Additionally, you can add zucchini or eggplant slices to the baking sheet for added veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Parmesan baked chicken strips pair wonderfully with:
- A side salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette.
- Dipping sauces: Try homemade ranch, marinara, or honey mustard for an extra flavor kick.
- Whole grain wraps: Allow guests to create their own wraps filled with veggies and chicken strips.
Feel free to get creative and change up your sides based on seasonal ingredients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some expert tips to help you succeed:
- Overcrowding the pan: Give each chicken strip space; this promotes even cooking.
- Skipping the preheating: This step is vital for ensuring the coating gets crispy.
- Not checking the internal temperature: Always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure proper cooking and avoid dryness.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To maintain freshness:
- Allow leftover chicken strips to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain that crispy texture.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive guide, making Parmesan baked chicken strips can be both simple and delightful. The recipe not only delivers crispy, cheesy goodness but also allows for plenty of variations to match your preferences. So gather your ingredients, and give this enticing dish a try! Don’t forget to share your experiences and any adaptations you make in the comments below.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before breading.
Q: Can I bake these chicken strips ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and bake them just before serving for best results.
Q: What sides go well with Parmesan baked chicken strips?
A: They pair perfectly with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of sweet potato fries.
Get ready to impress your taste buds and those of your family and friends with these tasty Parmesan baked chicken strips!
Parmesan Baked Chicken Strips
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Make sure they are fresh for optimal flavor.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a rich, cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Use panko for a crunchier texture.
- 2 large eggs These will help the cheese and breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Enhances the herby aroma.
- Salt and pepper To taste, essential for balancing flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up three shallow dishes: in the first, whisk the eggs until frothy; in the second, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; leave the third dish empty for the chicken.
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips about 1-inch wide.
- Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated chicken strips on a lined baking sheet, spaced out for even baking.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and golden brown. For maximum crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 contact@dailypan.com • Pinterest