On The Run Chicken Fingers
On The Run Chicken Fingers are crispy, flavorful chicken strips coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or snack. They combine tender chicken with bold, savory flavors, making them ideal for families, kids, or anyone craving a delicious finger food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry.
- Whisk together buttermilk, crushed garlic or garlic powder, celery salt, and Tabasco sauce.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken strips and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Mix seasoned breadcrumbs with paprika and Parmesan cheese until well blended.
- Lift each chicken strip out of the buttermilk mixture and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Freeze the breaded strips on a baking sheet until firm, making sure they do not touch.
- Package the frozen strips in a plastic freezer bag, seal, and return to the freezer.
- To cook, preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Arrange the frozen chicken strips about 1/2-inch apart on a foil-lined baking sheet sprayed with nonstick spray.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until crisp and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight. You can substitute regular milk with a splash of vinegar for a buttermilk alternative. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the Tabasco sauce. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Remember to keep the chicken strips evenly spaced while freezing to ensure they don't stick together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken fingers with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or buffalo sauce. They pair excellently with a fresh salad or crispy fries. For a complete meal, serve alongside the Chicken Potato Casserole for a comforting dinner option. These chicken fingers also work well as a party appetizer or game day snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cooked chicken fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid using the microwave as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of On The Run Chicken Fingers contains roughly 284 calories, with 12g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and breading. This ensures even cooking and helps the breading adhere better.
What can I substitute for buttermilk if I don't have any?
If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 3/4 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
How can I make these chicken fingers healthier?
To make these chicken fingers healthier, try baking them instead of frying. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs and reduce the amount of Tabasco sauce for less heat. Pair them with a side of steamed vegetables for a nutritious meal.
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).