Breaded Chicken Fingers
Crispy breaded chicken fingers with a flavorful garlic and buttermilk marinade, perfect for kids and gatherings, offering tender meat with a crunchy coating.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken strips into a large, resealable plastic bag.
- In a small bowl, mix the egg, buttermilk, and garlic powder.
- Pour the mixture into the bag with the chicken.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like dried oregano or paprika to the garlic powder mixture. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy texture. To avoid soggy breading, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken fingers with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch. Consider rounding out the meal with a slice of Banana Nut Bread(Low-Fat) for a sweet finish. Perfect for game day or family gatherings!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken fingers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breaded Chicken Fingers contains roughly 872 calories, with 25g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2315mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these chicken fingers instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the chicken fingers for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
What can I use instead of seasoned bread crumbs?
If you don't have seasoned bread crumbs, you can make your own by mixing plain bread crumbs with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, crushed crackers or cornflakes can also be used for a crunchy coating.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the chicken should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the center when cut.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).