When it comes to fried chicken fingers, you know there's a world of flavors to investigate beyond the standard fare. Imagine sinking your teeth into Classic Buttermilk Chicken Fingers, perfectly marinated for ultimate tenderness, or perhaps you prefer the kick of Spicy Buffalo Chicken Fingers. If you're looking for something a bit healthier, Herb-Crusted Chicken Fingers could be your new go-to. Each recipe offers a unique twist that enhances this timeless dish. But which ones will truly stand out in your kitchen? Let's uncover the five best options you won't want to miss.
Classic Buttermilk Chicken Fingers
Classic buttermilk chicken fingers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings a crispy, golden-brown crunch to tender chicken meat. Marinated in a flavorful buttermilk mixture, these chicken fingers are coated in a seasoned breading that adds a delightful texture and taste. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or as a snack, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into strips and placing them in a bowl.
In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken strips, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
When ready to cook, heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
In a shallow dish, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and dredge each strip in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
Fry the chicken fingers in batches for about 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Extra Tips:
For extra flavor, you can add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; if it's not, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken fingers at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or honey mustard, for an irresistible treat!
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Fingers
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Fingers are a delicious twist on traditional chicken fingers, perfect for those who love a kick of heat. These crispy, golden strips of chicken are coated in a spicy buffalo sauce that packs a flavorful punch. They make for an excellent appetizer, game day snack, or even a main dish when served with your favorite sides.
Prepare to impress your family and friends with this simple yet mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
Begin by setting up a breading station: in one shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
Dip each chicken strip first into the seasoned flour, then into the eggs, and finally into the breadcrumbs, ensuring they're well coated.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken fingers in batches until they're golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Once done, remove them and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Toss the hot chicken fingers in a bowl with buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
Extra Tips:
For an even crispier texture, consider double-dipping the chicken strips in the egg and breadcrumbs. This will create a thicker coating that holds up well against the spicy sauce.
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or use a milder buffalo sauce.
Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and consider garnishing with chopped celery or carrots for a classic buffalo wing experience.
Enjoy your Spicy Buffalo Chicken Fingers!
Herb-Crusted Chicken Fingers
Herb-crusted chicken fingers are a delightful twist on the classic favorite, bringing a burst of flavor and a crispy texture that will have everyone reaching for more. These chicken fingers aren't only easy to prepare but also make a perfect snack, appetizer, or main dish that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.
The combination of fresh herbs and a crunchy coating makes them a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken fingers without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Olive oil spray or cooking oil for baking
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken strip first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to stick.
Place the coated chicken fingers on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray them with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken strips in a mixture of yogurt and herbs for a couple of hours before breading. This not only improves the taste but also helps keep the chicken moist.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preference. For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
Serve these herb-crusted chicken fingers with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible treat!
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Fingers
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Fingers are a delicious twist on the classic chicken finger recipe, combining the savory flavors of garlic and the nuttiness of Parmesan cheese for a crunchy, flavorful coating.
Perfect for a family dinner or a game day snack, these chicken fingers are easy to make and sure to please both kids and adults alike. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to stick.
Place the coated chicken fingers on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
Extra Tips:
For an even crispier texture, consider double-dipping the chicken fingers by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preference; adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give them a nice kick.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and reheat them in the oven to maintain their crunchiness.
Enjoy your homemade Parmesan Garlic Chicken Fingers!
Honey Mustard Chicken Fingers
Honey Mustard Chicken Fingers are a delightful twist on the classic fried chicken fingers, adding a sweet and tangy flavor that makes them irresistible. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer, these chicken fingers are easy to make and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. The honey mustard glaze not only improves the taste but also gives the chicken a beautiful golden color when fried, making them as appealing to the eyes as they're to the palate.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For the honey mustard sauce, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and set aside.
Start by seasoning the chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and then coat it with breadcrumbs.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken strips in the skillet and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they're golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve the chicken fingers with the honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping.
When cooking Honey Mustard Chicken Fingers, it's crucial to keep an eye on the oil temperature to guarantee the chicken cooks evenly without burning. Use a thermometer if available, aiming for a temperature of around 350°F (175°C).
If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken fingers at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Additionally, feel free to customize the spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste, or experiment with different dipping sauces for added variety!