Baked Chicken Fingers

Baked Chicken Fingers

Crispy Baked Chicken Fingers – The Healthier, Tastier Choice!

If you're craving crispy, golden chicken tenders without the guilt of frying, this baked chicken fingers recipe is exactly what you need! These homemade chicken strips have the perfect balance of crunch on the outside and juicy tenderness inside. They’re not only easy to make but also a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken tenders. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a fun snack, these crispy baked chicken fingers are a hit for all ages.

Why You'll Love These Crispy Baked Chicken Fingers:

  • ✅ Healthier than fried – Baked, not fried!
  • ✅ Simple to make – Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • ✅ Kid-friendly – A fun meal for even the pickiest eaters.
  • ✅ Great for meal prep – These hold up well and make excellent leftovers.

Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Fingers:

Here are the precise measurements for the ingredients you’ll need to make the perfect crispy chicken fingers:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 450g, cut into strips)
  • 100g panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • 50g grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds great flavor)
  • 5g garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon)
  • 5g onion powder (about 1 teaspoon)
  • 5g paprika (about 1 teaspoon)
  • 2.5g salt (about ½ teaspoon)
  • 2.5g black pepper (about ½ teaspoon)
  • 1 egg
  • 30ml milk (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Olive oil spray or cooking spray (for greasing)

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Fingers:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Coating:

In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your chicken fingers that crispy, golden exterior.

3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:

In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.

4. Coat the Chicken:

  • Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
  • Next, dredge it through the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks evenly.

5. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:

Place the coated chicken strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil for extra crispiness.

6. Bake Until Golden and Crispy:

Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping the chicken fingers halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the chicken fingers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.

Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Chicken Fingers:

✔ Use panko breadcrumbs – They provide an extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
✔ Don’t skip the olive oil spray – A light mist helps the chicken fingers turn golden and crispy.
✔ Flip halfway through – This ensures even baking and crispiness on both sides.
✔ Want extra crunch? Broil the chicken fingers for the last 2-3 minutes to get a perfect crispy finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a little longer.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or use almond flour for a gluten-free version.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken fingers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to keep them crispy.

Final Thoughts:

These crispy baked chicken fingers are a delicious and healthier option compared to traditional fried chicken tenders. They're quick, easy to make, and a great meal for the whole family. Whether you're making them for dinner, meal prep, or a snack, they are sure to satisfy your cravings!

📌 Did you enjoy this recipe? Share it with your friends and leave a comment below!

Back to blog