Crispy Chicken Strips – Ultimate Oven-Baked Perfection

There’s something magical about the crispy chicken strips that have always been a hit in my family. Growing up, my grandmother would make her famous chicken strips every Sunday, and the aroma would fill the house, making everyone’s mouth water. The secret was always in the coating, a perfect blend of crunchy and cheesy goodness that made each bite irresistible.

As I developed my own passion for cooking, I aimed to recreate and even enhance those childhood memories. I wanted to craft crispy chicken strips that were not only delicious but also easy to make. The combination of Chex cereal and Parmesan cheese seemed like a perfect match to achieve that ideal crunch and flavor.

Creating these crispy chicken strips became a way of connecting with my roots while adding my own twist. Each time I prepare them, I think of those Sundays with my family gathered around the table, laughter and stories filling the room. It’s amazing how food can hold such powerful memories and bring people together.

Now, as a part of GrandMmaDelights, I hope to share this journey with you. Together, we’ll uncover the secrets of crafting the perfect crispy chicken strips that will leave you and your family craving more.

Crispy Chicken Strips

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

Discover the secret to perfect crispy chicken strips with our easy-to-follow recipe. Learn the best techniques for achieving golden, crunchy perfection every time!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lb (907 g) chicken breast each breast sliced into 4–5 tenders
• 1 ½ cups crushed Chex cereal
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) cornstarch
• 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp (5 ml) onion powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp (5 ml) smoked paprika
• 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 large egg whisked
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• Honey mustard sauce to serve

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Instructions

1. Set your oven to 375°F and arrange a wire rack on a baking sheet to keep the chicken elevated. Put aside for later.
2. Slice the chicken breasts into your preferred size, with each breast yielding around 4-5 strips. Place them to one side.
3. Organize three shallow bowls or pie dishes for the coating process. In the first dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. In the second bowl, blend the egg and buttermilk until they are thoroughly combined. In the third bowl, mix the crushed cereal with the Parmesan cheese.
4. Coat each chicken strip by first dipping it into the flour mixture and shaking off any surplus. Then immerse the chicken in the egg blend, letting any extra liquid drip away. Lastly, coat the chicken in the cereal mixture, ensuring it’s covered completely. Place each piece on the wire rack you prepared earlier, repeating until all chicken pieces are covered.
5. When all the chicken is coated, put it in the heated oven and bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F, which should take about 15-20 minutes.

Notes

• Crush Chex cereal finely for an even crustnDry chicken with paper towels to keep coating intactnAdd more cayenne for spice, but use sparingly

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 600
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 20g

Keywords: crispy chicken tenders, baked chicken tenders, chex crusted chicken, parmesan chicken tenders, garlic chicken tenders, honey mustard chicken

Mastering Crispy Chicken Strips

Fundamentals

The journey to mastering crispy chicken strips begins with understanding the ingredients and their roles. Chicken breast, when sliced into tenders, provides a lean and tender base. The Chex cereal, crushed to perfection, offers a surprising crunch that elevates the texture. Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, while the combination of spices ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.

Using buttermilk in the coating process is a game-changer. It not only tenderizes the chicken but also helps the coating adhere better, ensuring each strip is perfectly covered. The key is to maintain a balance between flavor and texture, which is achieved through the meticulous selection of ingredients and their proportions.

Preparation/Setup

Preparation is crucial to achieving crispy chicken perfection. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F to ensure even cooking. Arrange a wire rack on a baking sheet, which allows air to circulate and prevents the chicken from becoming soggy. This setup is essential for achieving that coveted crispiness.

Organize your ingredients into shallow bowls for easy coating. This step-by-step process—dipping in flour, then egg mixture, and finally the cereal blend—ensures each piece is evenly coated. Taking the time to meticulously prepare each strip will pay off when you take that first satisfying bite.

Creating the Perfect Crunch

Technique

Achieving the perfect crunch in your chicken strips requires a precise technique. Start by ensuring the chicken strips are evenly sliced. This not only guarantees consistent cooking but also allows each piece to hold the coating effectively. The flour mixture acts as a primer, absorbing moisture and creating a dry surface for the egg wash to cling to.

After the egg wash, the crushed cereal and Parmesan mix provides the final layer, adding both flavor and texture. Press the coating onto the chicken strips gently but firmly to ensure it adheres well. This technique is crucial for creating that desirable crunch in every bite.

Tips/Tricks

To further enhance the crispiness, consider allowing the coated strips to rest for a few minutes before baking. This resting period allows the coating to set, reducing the chance of it falling off during cooking. Additionally, flipping the chicken strips halfway through baking ensures an even golden-brown color on all sides.

For those who love experimenting, try different cereal blends or add a dash more cayenne for extra heat. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, allowing you to tailor the flavors to your liking while maintaining that signature crunch.

Perfecting Your Crispy Chicken Strips

Perfecting Results

Perfecting crispy chicken strips is all about patience and precision. Monitoring the internal temperature is crucial, with 160°F being the sweet spot for juicy, thoroughly cooked chicken. The wire rack setup ensures heat circulates evenly, preventing any sogginess that could ruin the texture.

Remember to keep an eye on the oven, as cooking times can vary. Start checking the chicken strips at the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking. The goal is a perfectly golden crust with succulent, moist chicken inside.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If you encounter issues with the coating not adhering, revisit your coating technique. Ensure the chicken is dry before dipping into the flour mixture, and press the coating onto the strips firmly. For variations, consider adding different herbs to the flour mixture or experimenting with different cheese blends to create unique flavor profiles.

For those interested in trying a different cooking method, consider checking out how to prepare frozen chicken wings in an air fryer—another way to achieve crispiness without deep frying.

Serving and Storing Your Masterpiece

Serving/Presentation

Presentation is key when serving crispy chicken strips. Arrange them on a platter with a side of honey mustard sauce for dipping. The golden-brown color against a vibrant dipping sauce creates an inviting visual appeal that’s sure to entice your guests.

Consider pairing these chicken strips with a fresh salad or some creamy pasta for a well-rounded meal. The contrasting textures and flavors will enhance the dining experience, making each bite memorable.

Pairings/Storage

While these chicken strips are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave. This method helps revive the crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

For a delightful lunch option, try incorporating leftover strips into a wrap with some fresh veggies and a drizzle of ranch dressing. This creative use of leftovers turns a simple meal into something extraordinary.

Conclusion

Creating crispy chicken strips at home is a rewarding culinary adventure that combines texture, flavor, and nostalgia. Mastering the balance of ingredients and technique ensures a satisfying crunch and a tender, juicy interior. This recipe’s versatility allows you to experiment and make it your own, catering to various taste preferences.

Whether you’re serving them as a snack, part of a meal, or repurposing leftovers, these chicken strips never disappoint. Their ability to bring family and friends together around the table is their true strength, making every occasion special. Dive into the world of crispy chicken and let each bite remind you of joyful gatherings and cherished memories.

FAQs – Crispy Chicken Strips