Parmesan Chicken Fingers are the ultimate solution for anyone seeking a delicious, kid-friendly meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a party, or just a quick weeknight meal, this recipe brings together the crispy texture of chicken fingers with the irresistible flavor of Parmesan cheese and garlic. Did you know that the average American eats about 50 pounds of chicken per year? That’s a lot of chicken! With these Parmesan Chicken Fingers, you can elevate your chicken game and impress your guests.
| Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 Servings | 15 Minutes | 20 Minutes | 35 Minutes | 350 |
Ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Fingers
- 1 pound chicken breast strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 large eggs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions for Making Crispy Parmesan Chicken Fingers
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture on your chicken fingers.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up your breading station by placing three shallow bowls on your countertop. In the first bowl, whisk together the eggs. In the second bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The third bowl will remain empty for now.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken strip and first dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Place the coated chicken strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process until all chicken strips are coated.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Fingers
Once all the chicken strips are coated, spray them lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. This will help them achieve that golden-brown color as they bake. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken fingers halfway through for even cooking.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce
While the chicken fingers are baking, you can prepare the garlic cheese sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chicken fingers are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Serve them hot with the garlic cheese sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious homemade Parmesan Chicken Fingers with family and friends!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
Watch this video to see how easy it is to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders!
Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy coating, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Swap the Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Three shallow bowls
- Whisk
- Small saucepan
- Spatula
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Parmesan Chicken Fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C)</b) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through for optimal crispiness.
Food and Drink Pairings
These crispy Parmesan Chicken Fingers pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, crispy fries, or even a side of coleslaw. For drinks, consider serving them with a chilled glass of lemonade or a light lager beer. If you prefer wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the cheesy flavors beautifully.
Parmesan Chicken Fingers are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavor and crunch, perfect for any occasion. From game nights to family dinners, these chicken strips will surely be a hit. Make sure to share this recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!
Q: Can I use frozen chicken strips for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken strips, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry before breading to achieve the best texture.
Q: How can I make these chicken fingers healthier?
A: To make your Parmesan Chicken Fingers healthier, you can bake them instead of frying, use whole-wheat breadcrumbs, and opt for lean chicken breast.
Q: Can I prepare the chicken fingers in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prep the chicken fingers ahead of time, bread them, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with Parmesan Chicken Fingers?
A: Besides the garlic cheese sauce, you can serve these chicken fingers with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard for a delightful twist.
Q: Can I freeze the uncooked chicken fingers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked chicken fingers. Just bread them, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: What other seasonings can I use?
A: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices! Paprika, cumin, or even lemon zest can add a unique flavor to your chicken fingers.
