Introduction

Chicken sticks easy dinner recipes, also known as chicken fingers or chicken tenders, are a beloved snack and meal option for both children and adults. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these tasty treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive parties. In this article, we’ll explore a homemade chicken sticks recipe that is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your cravings. With fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s healthier and tastier than any store-bought or fast-food alternative.

Ingredients

To make homemade chicken sticks, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon of dried herbs (such as parsley, oregano, or thyme)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into thin strips, about 1 inch wide and 3-4 inches long. If you’re using chicken tenders, you can skip this step as they are already the perfect size.

2. Season the Flour

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the flour.

3. Beat the Eggs

In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until they are well blended. This will act as the binding agent for the breadcrumbs to stick to the chicken.

4. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried herbs. Mix well to ensure the cheese and herbs are evenly distributed.

5. Dredge the Chicken

Set up an assembly line with the seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumb mixture. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Place the coated chicken strips on a plate or baking sheet.

6. Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.

7. Fry the Chicken Sticks

Once the oil is hot, carefully add a few chicken strips to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken sticks for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

8. Keep Warm

If you’re frying the chicken sticks in batches, keep the cooked ones warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C) until all the chicken sticks are fried.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade chicken sticks are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as ketchup, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
2. Salad Topping: Add the chicken sticks to a fresh salad for a delicious and protein-packed meal.
3. Wraps and Sandwiches: Use the chicken sticks in wraps or sandwiches with your favorite toppings and condiments.
4. Kids’ Meal: Pair the chicken sticks with a side of fries or a healthy vegetable like carrot sticks or cucumber slices for a kid-friendly meal.

Tips for Success

1. Uniform Sizes: Cut the chicken strips into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
2. Double Dipping: For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the chicken strips by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
3. Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) to achieve a crispy exterior without burning the chicken.
4. Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken sticks in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Sticks: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Cheesy Chicken Sticks: Increase the amount of grated Parmesan cheese or add other grated cheeses like Cheddar or mozzarella to the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Herb-Crusted Chicken Sticks: Use fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro in place of dried herbs for a burst of fresh flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg

Conclusion

Homemade chicken sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they make a perfect snack, appetizer, or main course. By following this recipe, you can create a healthier and more flavorful version of this popular dish right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a party, these chicken sticks are sure to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade delight. Enjoy!

Watch Complete You Tube Video