Description
These Golden Crunch Chicken Strips are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor! Coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, they make a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders. Perfect for a quick dinner, snack, or appetizer, these tenders pair well with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders, cut into strips
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray for coating
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
- Prepare the Breading Station
- In one bowl, beat the eggs.
- In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken Strips
- Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s well-coated.
- Transfer the strip to the breadcrumb mixture and coat it evenly, pressing lightly to help the breading stick.
- Arrange & Bake
- Place the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Let the chicken strips cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
Notes
- For Extra Crispiness: Bake the chicken strips on a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow even airflow.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make It Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes.
- Freezing Instructions: Freeze uncooked, breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American