Parmesan Chicken Strips
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a crispy, flavorful piece of chicken. Parmesan Chicken Strips have a way of making any meal feel special. This dish has been a family favorite for years, often making an appearance at our casual gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. The best memories are created around the dinner table, and these chicken strips have played a delightful role in many of them. I still remember when I first mastered this recipe—my kids couldn’t get enough! They were gobbling up the crunchy goodness and asking for more. The secret is in the perfect coating and the way the flavors meld together.
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
10 mins
30 mins
Medium
400 kcal
30 g
Low FODMAP
18 g
12-inch Cast Iron Skillet
Why This Parmesan Chicken Strips Is So Good
Irresistible Crunch
One of the main reasons I adore Parmesan Chicken Strips is the crunchy texture. The combination of breadcrumbs and finely grated Parmesan cheese creates a delightful crust that’s difficult to resist. When they come out of the skillet, they’re golden brown and just begging to be devoured.
Flavor Explosion
These strips are not just about crunch; they pack a flavorful punch! The blend of cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper adds just the right amount of kick to the dish. Each bite bursts with flavor and complements the succulent chicken perfectly.
Quick and Easy
What I love most is that this recipe is quick and easy. You can whip it up in no time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The prep is simple, and the cooking process is straightforward. It’s a win-win when you can serve something that tastes gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.
Versatile Delight
Another reason I fall back on Parmesan Chicken Strips is their versatility. They can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a fun snack. Pair them with ranch dressing for dipping, or add them to a salad for a satisfying meal. The possibilities are endless!
Family-Friendly
This dish has a universal appeal, making it perfect for family dinners. Kids love the crispy texture and the cheesy flavor, while adults appreciate the homemade touch. It’s a great way to sneak in some protein while keeping everyone happy.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Lastly, these chicken strips are a fantastic option for meal prep. They can be cooked in bulk and stored for quick meals throughout the week. When you’re short on time, heat them up in the oven for a delicious, warm meal in minutes.
Ingredients to Make Parmesan Chicken Strips
The beauty of Parmesan Chicken Strips lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish’s flavor, texture, and overall appeal. Chicken is the star, providing a juicy base, while the coating of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch. Together, they create a balance that makes this dish irresistible.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated): The key to that rich, cheesy flavor.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (I used Panko): For the ultimate crunch!
- ¼ cup parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for the coating.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives a subtle kick.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a little warmth.
- 3 eggs: The binding agent for the coating.
- vegetable oil (for frying): Needed for that crispy exterior.
- 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cut into long strips): The main protein source.
- ½ cup ranch dressing: For dipping, if desired.
Parmesan Chicken Strips Instructions
Making Parmesan Chicken Strips is a straightforward process that results in a delicious dish. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect crispy chicken strips. You’ll love how easy it is!
- Start by combining the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and parsley in a large bowl. Mix until evenly distributed. This mixture will create the flavorful crust that clings beautifully to the chicken.
- In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure that the spices are evenly mixed throughout the flour. This seasoned flour will provide an essential layer of flavor.
- In a third bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well-beaten. This egg wash will help the coating adhere to the chicken strips, creating that satisfying crunch.
- Next, heat a large skillet and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom about ½ inch deep. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating that it’s hot enough for frying.
- While the oil heats, take your cut chicken pieces and dip each piece first into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off before moving to the next step.
- Next, dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated, tapping off any excess flour.
- Repeat the egg wash process by dipping the chicken back into the eggs, covering it completely.
- Finally, roll the chicken in the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Carefully place the coated chicken strips in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry until they are golden brown, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Once done, use tongs to remove the fried chicken strips and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step is crucial for keeping them crispy.
- Serve warm with ranch dressing. Enjoy your delicious homemade Parmesan Chicken Strips!
Things Worth Knowing
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s too cold, the coating will absorb more oil, resulting in a greasy texture.
- Batch Cooking: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures even cooking and perfect crispiness.
- Coating Technique: Don’t rush through the coating process! Take your time ensuring each step is done properly for the best results.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in the oven for best results.
Change It Up
There are numerous ways to customize your Parmesan Chicken Strips to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some creative ideas to inspire you!
- Spicy Variation: Add more cayenne pepper to the coating mix or use spicy ranch dressing for dipping to kick up the heat.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
- Baked Option: For a healthier version, bake the coated chicken strips in the oven at 400 F degrees for about 30 minutes instead of frying.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix some shredded mozzarella cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra cheesy crust.
- Dipping Sauces: Experiment with different sauces like honey mustard or barbecue sauce for a fun twist.
What Goes Well With This Parmesan Chicken Strips
When serving Parmesan Chicken Strips, consider pairing them with complementary dishes that enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some ideas:
- Salads: A fresh garden salad or a classic Caesar salad pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Fries: Crispy french fries or sweet potato fries make for a classic side dish that everyone loves!
- Dips: Serve with a selection of dips like ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
- Occasions: Perfect for casual family dinners, game days, or even as a fun appetizer at parties.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Parmesan Chicken Strips are a true delight that combines crispy textures with savory flavors, making them a perfect choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe tonight; it’s sure to impress your family or guests. Enjoy every bite, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making these again and again!
Parmesan Chicken Strips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by combining the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and parsley in a large bowl. Mix until evenly distributed. This mixture will create the flavorful crust that clings beautifully to the chicken.
- In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure that the spices are evenly mixed throughout the flour. This seasoned flour will provide an essential layer of flavor.
- In a third bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well-beaten. This egg wash will help the coating adhere to the chicken strips, creating that satisfying crunch.
- Next, heat a large skillet and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom about ½ inch deep. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating that it’s hot enough for frying.
- While the oil heats, take your cut chicken pieces and dip each piece first into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off before moving to the next step.
- Next, dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated, tapping off any excess flour.
- Repeat the egg wash process by dipping the chicken back into the eggs, covering it completely.
- Finally, roll the chicken in the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Carefully place the coated chicken strips in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry until they are golden brown, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Once done, use tongs to remove the fried chicken strips and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step is crucial for keeping them crispy.
- Serve warm with ranch dressing. Enjoy your delicious homemade Parmesan Chicken Strips!
Notes
- To bake these: Preheat the oven to 400 F degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes until the chicken starts to brown and the chicken is cooked through.
- Storage: You can store these fully cooked in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Feel free to crisp them up in the oven when ready to feast.
- Freezing: You can store these in the freezer for up to 1 month if you’d like to prepare these in advance. Just dredge the chicken strips and then lay them on a baking sheet and freeze them, uncooked. Seal in an airtight container once hard and bake at 425 F degrees for 20 to 25 minutes from frozen when ready to eat.
