Honey Mustard Chicken Strips with Cracker Crust
Savor the delightful crunch of Honey Mustard Chicken Strips with Cracker Crust, a deliciously healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. These tender strips of boneless skinless chicken are coated in a flavorful mixture of Dijon mustard and honey, then rolled in crispy cracker crumbs for added texture. Baked to perfection, this dish is juicy, crispy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Plus, with lined baking sheets, cleanup is a breeze!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
4 (Cut into strips)
Milk
1/2 cup (None)
Dijon Mustard
2 tablespoons (None)
Cracker Crumbs
2 cups (None)
Honey
1/2 tablespoon (None)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Honey Mustard Chicken Strips with Cracker Crust?
They are a healthier, baked alternative to traditional fried chicken strips, featuring a coating of Dijon mustard, honey, and crispy cracker crumbs.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, these chicken strips are baked rather than deep-fried, which reduces the fat content while maintaining a crispy texture.
What type of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for four boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips.
How do I prepare the chicken coating?
Mix milk, Dijon mustard, and honey together to create a wet wash for the chicken before rolling it in cracker crumbs.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs, though cooking times may vary slightly.
What kind of cracker crumbs work best?
Standard buttery crackers or saltines work well; you can crush them into fine or coarse crumbs depending on your preference.
Is Dijon mustard necessary for this recipe?
Dijon mustard provides a specific tangy flavor profile that complements the honey, but you can use yellow mustard for a milder taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or soy milk.
How do I ensure the chicken is crispy?
Baking them at a high temperature on a lined baking sheet helps the cracker crust crisp up without becoming soggy.
Is it necessary to line the baking sheet?
Lining the sheet with parchment paper or foil makes cleanup much easier and prevents the crust from sticking.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely, these chicken strips hold up well and can be portioned out for lunches throughout the week.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
What is the best way to reheat these chicken strips?
To maintain the crunch, reheat them in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave.
Can I freeze these chicken strips?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Ensure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
What should I serve with honey mustard chicken strips?
They pair well with roasted vegetables, a fresh side salad, or mashed potatoes.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild sweetness of the honey and the familiar crunch of crackers make this a favorite for children.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the cracker crumbs for your favorite gluten-free cracker variety.
How much honey is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 tablespoon of honey for a subtle sweetness.
What if I don't have cracker crumbs?
You can substitute with panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes if crackers are unavailable.
Can I add extra spices to the crust?
Yes, adding garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to the cracker crumbs can enhance the flavor.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
This is a simple 5-ingredient recipe consisting of chicken, milk, Dijon mustard, cracker crumbs, and honey.
Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?
Yes, these strips cook beautifully in an air fryer at 400F for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
What makes the chicken strips juicy?
The milk and mustard mixture helps seal in moisture while the chicken bakes.
Is this recipe quick to make?
Yes, it is designed for easy prep and quick baking, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve a larger crowd.
What is the serving size?
The recipe yields approximately 4 servings based on the use of 4 chicken breasts.
Do I need to grease the baking sheet?
If not using parchment paper, a light spray of cooking oil is recommended to prevent sticking.
Can I use spicy mustard?
Yes, if you prefer a kick, you can substitute Dijon with spicy brown mustard or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Should the chicken be at room temperature before cooking?
It is safer to keep chicken refrigerated until you are ready to prep and bake it.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup is a great 1:1 substitute for honey in this recipe.