Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Strips (Better Than Takeout!)
Ditch the drive-thru! These baked chicken strips are incredibly crispy and flavorful. My secret? Panko and Parmesan! Get the recipe for this healthier treat now!
Alright, let's get to it. ever find yourself craving some crispy chicken but cringing at the thought of all that grease from takeout? me too.
That's why i'm buzzing about these baked chicken strips . honestly, they're a game changer. they are a total winner!.
Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Strips: Takeout, Schmack-out!
These aren't just any chicken tenders oven baked ; they are going to blow your mind. forget soggy, sad excuses for chicken.
These are bursting with flavour and have a proper, satisfying crunch. ditch the guilt and dive in. they are delicious.
What Makes These Chicken Strips So Good?
Okay, so chicken strips are basically an american classic. like, every kid (and a lot of adults!) has a soft spot for them.
This recipe makes it easy and healthy. they're ridiculously easy to make and require next to no skill.
Baked Chicken Strips: Healthy and Simple
This is an easy recipe. from start to finish, it's about an hour. it makes enough for about 4-6 people, ideal for a family dinner, or a snack.
How long to bake chicken tenders in oven ? just enough to get them golden brown!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Let's talk benefits. first, it's baked, not fried! which means fewer calories and less guilt. second, these healthy baked chicken tenderloins taste flipping amazing.
Third, it is great for kids and grown ups alike. they're great for parties, or movie nights.
These are oven baked chicken tenders no breading . the breading isn't just for show. it's packed with flavour. garlic powder, paprika, a bit of italian seasoning.
.. chef's kiss . this breading sticks to the chicken so well. making diy chicken tenders oven baked is super easy.
Now, before I natter on about how good they taste, let's get the ingredient sorted and begin.
Alright, let's chat about what you need to make these wicked baked chicken strips . it’s easier than you think, trust me! i remember the first time i tried this.
Total disaster! but practice makes perfect, yeah?
Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Strips (Better Than Takeout!) Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Ingredients & Equipment
This is where the magic happens!
Main Ingredients
Let's gather our goodies.
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips. Make sure the chicken is firm and pink. No grey bits, yeah?
- Buttermilk: 1/2 cup (120ml) . If you haven't got any, a splash of lemon juice in milk works wonders.
- Salt: 1 tsp kosher salt.
- Pepper: 1/2 tsp black pepper.
Seasoning Notes
Flavour is everything, innit? We're gonna make these baked chicken strips sing!
- Spice Combo: Italian seasoning ( 1 tbsp ), garlic powder ( 1 tsp ), paprika ( 1/2 tsp ). This is the base, but feel free to experiment.
- Flavour Enhancers: Grated Parmesan cheese ( 1/2 cup (60g) ) adds a lovely nutty flavour. Smoked paprika gives it depth.
- Quick Subs: No Italian seasoning? Oregano, basil, and thyme mixed will work a charm.
I once made a batch with a pinch of cayenne pepper. Oh my gosh, the kick! My hubby loved them!
If you want to bake chicken tenderloins in oven , follow the same steps. you can adapt this recipe to bake chicken tenderloins in oven .
Chicken tender recipes baked in the oven are so much healthier than fried. and this recipe helps you make oven baked chicken tenders healthy !
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple, yeah?
- Baking Sheet: Essential!
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but cleaning is a breeze!
- Shallow Dishes: Three for breading.
- Alternative for the above, is any container that you can use. I've seen folks search for " oven baked chicken tenders no breading ," but honestly, the breading is what makes these amazing .
These diy chicken tenders oven baked will be a family favourite, you know? make sure your oven is preheated to 400° f ( 200° c) for best results.
Keep in mind how long to bake chicken tenders in oven depends on the thickness, but 20- 25 minutes is usually spot-on.
Also if you are looking for oven baked chicken tenders panko the recipe will taste amazing. enjoy your chicken tenders oven !
Right then, let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? We're talking about baked chicken strips , the cheat-day treat that isn't really a cheat day.
Cooking Method: Baked Chicken Strips – Easy Peasy!
Honestly, who needs the hassle of frying when you can get perfectly crispy, healthy baked chicken tenderloins right in your oven? this method is a game-changer, trust me.
You'll be saying "see ya later" to soggy, greasy takeaways in no time. and honestly, even if you're a complete novice in the kitchen, this is doable.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
First things first, the essential mise en place . that’s fancy chef talk for "get your stuff together before you start.
" chop your chicken, mix your breading, and then you can relax a bit. for time-saving organization tips , use three shallow dishes for your breading station: one for the wet stuff, one for the dry, and one for the magical golden coating.
This is all about that diy chicken tenders oven baked experience
And a quick safety reminder : always wash your hands after handling raw chicken. No one wants a dodgy tummy!
Step-by-Step Process: Bake Chicken Tenderloins In Oven
Right, here's the drill:
- Cut 1.5 lbs chicken breasts into strips and marinate in 0.5 cup buttermilk with salt and pepper for at least 15 minutes.
- Combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 0.5 cup Parmesan (optional), 0.25 cup flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (optional) in a dish.
- Dip each strip in oil and then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture. Press well!
- Place on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 400° F ( 200° C) for 20- 25 minutes . The critical temperature point is 165° F ( 74° C) .
Keep an eye on those babies! We're after that lovely visual cue of golden brown .
Pro Tips: Secret Agent Skills
Wanna take your oven baked chicken tenders to the next level? Here's the inside scoop.
For extra crispiness, try using a wire rack on your baking sheet. Allows air to circulate! A common mistake is overcrowding the pan. Give those chicken tender recipes baked some space!
For a make-ahead option, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge before baking for up to 24 hours.
How long to bake chicken tenders in oven ? about 20 minutes at 400° f and you have got it.
Also, consider using oven baked chicken tenders panko for the extra crunch.
Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty with some recipe notes, yeah? think of this as the "behind the scenes" of making brilliant baked chicken strips .
I want you to absolutely nail this. trust me, it is a game changer.
Recipe Rundown: Pro Tips & Tricks
Serving Them Up Like a Pro
Presentation matters! think about it: plating can make all the difference. i like to arrange my healthy baked chicken tenderloins on a platter with a few different dipping sauces.
Honey mustard is always a winner. ketchup, of course. and maybe a spicy mayo to spice things up.
For sides, it's all about balance. some baked sweet potato fries work wonders. or a crisp, fresh salad. how about some creamy coleslaw? whatever you're feeling.
Don't forget the beverages. a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade is always spot on.
Storage Sorted: Keep 'em Fresh
Got leftovers? no worries! pop those oven baked chicken tenders in an airtight container and into the fridge. they'll keep for about 3-4 days.
To reheat, either zap them in the microwave (not my fave, tbh, makes them a bit soggy). the best way is to re-crisp them in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) for about 10 minutes.
They’ll be as good as new. you can also bake chicken tenderloins in oven again for a couple of minutes.
Freezing is also an option. Cool completely, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together.
Remix Time: Variations
Fancy switching things up? i hear you! if you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. simple swap, great result! or for a seasonal twist, try using different herbs.
In the summer, fresh basil and oregano are amazing. this adds a lovely aromatic twist. you can also try oven baked chicken tenders panko .
I’ve even seen folk try crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
Nosh Stats: Quick Nutrition
Okay, so let’s talk numbers. each serving of these chicken tender recipes baked is roughly around 350-450 calories. it's a great source of protein (around 30-40g per serving), important for muscle building.
Plus, you're getting a good dose of vitamins and minerals from the chicken. way healthier than those takeout fried things, believe me!
Honestly, i've had some epic fails and a-ha moments making these. once, i tried to diy chicken tenders oven baked with completely the wrong breadcrumbs.
The result? a soggy mess. it was a disaster, honestly. but you know what? i learned from it. and now, my oven baked chicken tenders no breading are legendary.
Now, go forth and bake some seriously brilliant chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my baked chicken strips are actually crispy, not soggy?
Ah, the million-dollar question! The secret to crispy baked chicken strips is all in the breading and the baking. Use panko breadcrumbs, which are coarser than regular breadcrumbs. Don't overcrowd the baking sheet and ensure the oven is hot enough (400°F / 200°C). A quick burst under the broiler at the end can also help crisp them up, but keep a close eye so they don't burn!
Can I use different seasonings for these baked chicken strips?
Absolutely, you can get quite creative! Think about the flavours you enjoy. For a Tex-Mex twist, try chili powder, cumin, and a touch of smoked paprika. For a Mediterranean vibe, add dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of lemon zest. The base recipe is very versatile so feel free to play around with different herbs and spices, it's all about making it your own.
What's the best way to store leftover baked chicken strips?
To keep your leftover baked chicken strips tasting their best, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll be good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, the best way is to pop them back in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes to regain some crispness – microwaving can make them a bit soggy, which is a bummer.
Are these baked chicken strips healthier than fried ones? What are the nutritional benefits?
Without a doubt! Baking chicken strips dramatically reduces the amount of added fat compared to deep-frying. These strips are a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and satiety. While the exact nutritional content varies based on ingredients, you'll generally consume far fewer calories and saturated fat than you would with the fried takeaway alternative, and feel less of that post-takeaway guilt!
How long do I bake the chicken strips?
Bake the chicken strips for 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they're cooked through and safe to eat. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary a bit, and you want them golden brown and crispy, not burnt to a crisp!
My kids are picky eaters. Any tips for making these baked chicken strips extra appealing?
I hear you, getting kids to eat anything can be a proper mission! Cut the strips into fun shapes before breading. Serving with a variety of dipping sauces can also encourage them to eat more, especially if they get to choose their own. Ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a simple yogurt dip are all good options. Sometimes the power of choice is all they need to dig in!
