Crispy Chicken Strips: A Family-Friendly Recipe Everyone Will Love

Who doesn’t love a crispy chicken strip? They’re crunchy, juicy, and full of flavor—everything a chicken strip should be. But what if you could enjoy that same crispy goodness without all the guilt? This Crispy Chicken Strips recipe is here to do just that. With a light and crispy coating, tender chicken on the inside, and minimal oil, these strips are perfect for a healthier take on a classic comfort food.

Baked to crispy perfection, these chicken strips make for a great appetizer, snack, or main course. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy a crispy, flavorful bite without the deep-fried calories. Let’s get started on this healthier, crispy, and oh-so-delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy without the Frying: These chicken strips are baked, not fried, keeping them light and crispy.
Packed with Flavor: A delicious blend of spices gives the chicken strips a zesty and savory taste.
Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and a short cooking time make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Option: Lower in fat than traditional fried chicken strips, but with all the crunch and flavor.
Customizable: Easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, or make them extra crispy by double-coating.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tbsp olive oil spray (or cooking spray)

Instructions

Preheat & Prepare Baking Sheet

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray with olive oil. This ensures the chicken strips crisp up nicely without sticking.

Prepare the Breading

1. In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
2. In a separate shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.

Coat the Chicken Strips

1. Dip each chicken strip first into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Next, dredge the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.

Bake the Chicken Strips

1. Place the coated chicken strips onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly.
2. Lightly spray the tops of the strips with olive oil spray to promote crispiness.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on both sides.
4. Check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C).

Serve & Enjoy

1. Remove the chicken strips from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 220 | Carbs: 14g | Fat: 10g | Protein: 24g | Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Panko for Extra Crunch: If you prefer an even crunchier texture, substitute regular breadcrumbs with panko breadcrumbs.
• Double Coat for Extra Crispy Strips: For an even crispier coating, dip the chicken strips in the egg and breadcrumbs twice before baking.
• Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning mix to suit your preferences—add cayenne for spice, or herbs like thyme for a fresh flavor.
• Use Cooking Spray: A light spray of oil on top of the chicken strips helps them get golden and crispy without frying.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the chicken strips right out of the oven when they’re hot and crispy.

Why This Recipe Works

• Crispy Without Frying: The combination of a breadcrumb coating and a light spray of oil gives these strips the perfect crispy exterior without the need for deep frying.
• Moist, Tender Chicken: The chicken stays juicy on the inside while the outside crisps up, creating a perfect bite every time.
• Healthier Option: By baking instead of frying, you cut down on unnecessary fat and calories while still achieving a satisfying crunch.
• Simple & Quick: With a short prep time and minimal ingredients, this recipe is both easy and delicious.

These Crispy Chicken Strips are a guilt-free way to enjoy the classic comfort food you love. With a light, crispy coating and tender chicken inside, they’re perfect for dipping, snacking, or serving with a meal. Whether you’re feeding the whole family or looking for a healthier snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve them up with your favorite sauces and enjoy the perfect combination of flavor and crunch!

Enjoy these chicken strips as a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried ones—crispy, satisfying, and full of flavor!