Parmesan Chicken Strips

If you’re a fan of crispy, cheesy goodness, then these Parmesan Chicken Strips will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. They are the perfect combination of crunchy breadcrumbs and savory Parmesan cheese, making them an irresistible snack or dinner option. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main dish, or a fun finger food, these chicken strips are sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be paired with various dipping sauces for a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Parmesan Chicken Strips are not just a one-time treat. Their versatility and flavor make them a go-to recipe for any occasion. You can enjoy them during a cozy family dinner, as a party snack, or even as a quick and satisfying lunch. The crispy coating combined with tender chicken ensures that they will be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Add to that the fact that you can customize the spices to your liking, and you have a recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again.

What You’ll Gather

To whip up these delicious Parmesan Chicken Strips, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (I used Panko)
• 1/2 cup parsley (chopped)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 3 eggs
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cut into long strips)
• 1 cup ranch dressing (for dipping)

Appliances & Accessories

To make your cooking process smoother, gather the following appliances and accessories:

• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate measurements.
• Frying pan or deep fryer – for frying the chicken strips to perfection.
• Tongs – to handle the chicken strips with ease while frying.
• Paper towels – for draining excess oil after frying.

Parmesan Chicken Strips: How It’s Done

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Parmesan Chicken Strips:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into long strips. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour and season it with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten. In a third bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture first, ensuring it is well coated. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip the floured strip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres well.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You can check if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!

Step 5: Fry the Chicken Strips

Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to flip them as needed.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the chicken strips to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with ranch dressing for dipping, and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness of your Parmesan Chicken Strips!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

These Parmesan Chicken Strips are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways throughout the year. Here are some ideas:

• Serve them with a fresh garden salad for a light spring meal.
• Turn them into sliders by placing the strips in mini buns with lettuce and tomato for summer barbecues.
• Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed veggies for a comforting fall dinner.
• In winter, serve them alongside homemade soups for a cozy meal.

Don’t Do This

When preparing your Parmesan Chicken Strips, avoid the following common mistakes:

• Don’t rush the breading process. Take your time to ensure each strip is well-coated for the best flavor and crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature consistent and achieve even cooking.
• Don’t skip seasoning the flour. It’s essential for adding flavor to the chicken itself.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you find yourself with leftover Parmesan Chicken Strips, don’t worry! They store well in the refrigerator. Here’s how to handle them:

Store leftover chicken strips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can pop them back in the frying pan for a few minutes to restore their crunch.

For meal prep, you can bread the chicken strips ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before frying. This makes it easy to whip up a quick meal during the week!

Popular Questions

Can I bake these Parmesan Chicken Strips instead of frying them?

Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken strips. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

What can I use instead of ranch dressing for dipping?

If ranch dressing isn’t your favorite, you can try serving these chicken strips with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick!

Can I freeze the breaded chicken strips?

Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded but uncooked chicken strips. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How can I spice up the flavor of the chicken strips?

Feel free to get creative with your seasoning! Add garlic powder, Italian herbs, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor. You can also mix in some grated Parmesan with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

You Might Also Like

• Cheesy Chicken Poblano Penne Bake
• Crack Chicken Tenders
• Chicken Parmesan Ravioli Bake

Final Bite

These Parmesan Chicken Strips are a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a touch of cheesy satisfaction to your table. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, they offer a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether you enjoy them on their own or as part of a larger feast, they are sure to be a favorite among family and friends. Try making these strips today, and experience the joy of homemade comfort food!

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