Finger Lickin Chicken
Crunchy, flavorful finger-lickin' chicken strips coated with Ritz crackers and fried to perfection, ideal for casual gatherings, kids' meals, or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into strips.
- Dip the chicken strips into the beaten egg.
- Roll the egg-coated chicken in crushed Ritz crackers.
- Brown the coated chicken strips in a skillet with melted margarine until cooked through and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try adding some spices to the Ritz cracker coating, like paprika or garlic powder. If you're out of Ritz crackers, crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can be excellent substitutes. To ensure the chicken stays juicy, avoid overcooking it; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For an even simpler preparation, consider the No Fuss Chicken method for a quicker meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Finger Lickin Chicken with a side of oven-baked fries or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Oven Scalloped Potatoes for a comforting dinner. Consider drizzling a little honey or barbecue sauce over the chicken for added sweetness, and don’t forget to whip up a batch of Chicken And Dumplings - Made Easy for a heartwarming side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken strips in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Finger Lickin Chicken contains roughly 642 calories, with 8g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value) and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% 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 use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's essential to thaw them completely before starting the recipe. This ensures even cooking and prevents the coating from burning while the chicken cooks through.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute margarine with olive oil or melted butter. Both alternatives will provide a rich flavor and help achieve that golden-brown crust on the chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part of the breast. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the chicken to check that the juices run clear and there is no pink meat.
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).