Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Strips
Satisfy your cravings for crispy chicken fingers with this healthier baked version. Our Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Strips are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, thanks to a delightful blend of crunchy panko breadcrumbs, rich Parmesan cheese, and a hint of Dijon mustard. By using the 'oven frying' technique, we achieve a golden crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil, making this dish both family-friendly and nutritious. The addition of fresh parsley enhances the overall flavor and presentation, while serving these strips with a homemade honey mustard or sweet-and-sour dipping sauce elevates them to a new level of deliciousness. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these chicken strips are sure to become a staple at your dinner table!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cooking spray
as needed (Use for greasing equipment)
Panko breadcrumbs
2/3 cup (Japanese-style breadcrumbs)
Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup (Grated)
Fresh parsley
2 tablespoons (Chopped (optional))
Ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Ground)
Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (Ready to use)
Egg whites
2 (Separated from the yolk)
Chicken tenders
1 lb (Raw, for coating)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a rack in the top third of the oven. Prepare a baking sheet by setting a wire rack on top and lightly coating it with cooking spray.
2
In a shallow bowl, thoroughly mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley (if desired), and ground black pepper until combined.
3
In another shallow bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and egg whites until the mixture becomes frothy and opaque.
4
Take each chicken tender, dip it into the egg white mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are covered. Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared wire rack.
5
Once all chicken strips are coated, lightly spritz the tops with cooking spray. Carefully flip them and repeat the spritzing on the other side.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through with no pink remaining in the center.
7
Serve immediately with your choice of homemade honey mustard sauce or a sweet-and-sour sauce made with apricot jam, cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is for Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Strips.
Is this a healthier version of chicken fingers?
Yes, this recipe uses an 'oven frying' technique to achieve a crispy exterior without excessive oil.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
The oven should be preheated to 425°F (220°C).
Where should I place the oven rack?
Place the rack in the top third of the oven for optimal crispiness.
What is the main breading ingredient?
The breading primarily consists of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
How long do the chicken strips need to bake?
Bake the chicken strips for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
What kind of chicken is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of raw chicken tenders.
How do I prepare the baking sheet?
Set a wire rack on top of a baking sheet and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
What ingredients are in the wet mixture?
The wet mixture consists of Dijon mustard and 2 egg whites whisked together until frothy.
What seasonings are added to the panko breadcrumbs?
The breadcrumbs are mixed with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and ground black pepper.
Is the parsley required for this recipe?
No, the fresh parsley is optional but recommended for extra flavor and presentation.
How do I ensure the coating is crispy on both sides?
Lightly spritz the tops with cooking spray, then flip the strips and spritz the other side before baking.
What dipping sauces go well with these chicken strips?
They are delicious with homemade honey mustard or a sweet-and-sour dipping sauce.
How do I make the sweet-and-sour sauce mentioned?
Mix apricot jam, cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and a dash of hot sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is specifically described as family-friendly and perfect for kids.
Can these be served as an appetizer?
Yes, they are suitable as a main dinner dish, a snack, or an appetizer.
Why use egg whites instead of whole eggs?
Egg whites provide a lighter coating that helps the breadcrumbs adhere while keeping the dish healthier.
What is the texture of the chicken after baking?
The chicken should have a golden crispy exterior and be moist and fully cooked on the inside.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
The recipe lists a total of 8 main ingredients.
What is panko?
Panko are Japanese-style breadcrumbs known for being extra light and crunchy.
Is this a high-protein recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as a high-protein dish.
How do I apply the breading?
Dip the chicken in the frothy egg mixture, let the excess drip off, then coat all sides in the breadcrumb mixture.
Can I use a regular baking sheet without a rack?
Using a wire rack is recommended as it helps achieve a crispy exterior on all sides by allowing air to circulate.
Does the recipe use any oil?
The recipe uses cooking spray for greasing and for spritzing the chicken to help it brown.
What role does Dijon mustard play?
Dijon mustard adds a hint of flavor and helps the egg whites bind to the chicken.
How do I know the chicken is safe to eat?
The chicken is cooked through when there is no pink remaining in the center.
Is this recipe considered an easy dinner?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy dinner and is designed for simple preparation.
Can I use ground pepper in the breading?
Yes, 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper is mixed into the dry breading ingredients.
How many egg whites are required?
You will need 2 egg whites, separated from the yolks.
What gives the chicken its 'rich' flavor?
The combination of grated Parmesan cheese and a hint of Dijon mustard provides a rich flavor profile.