Oven Baked Pecan-Crusted Chicken Fingers
Crispy oven-baked chicken fingers coated with pecan and breadcrumb mixture, perfect for a flavorful and wholesome family meal or snack with a nutty crunch and savory seasoning.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Place pecan pieces, bread crumbs, and Essence seasoning in a shallow dish and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dip chicken fingers into the beaten eggs, then coat with the pecan mixture.
- Arrange coated chicken fingers on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken fingers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the pecan pieces before adding them to the mixture. If you don't have Essence seasoning, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne will work well. You can also swap out olive oil for melted coconut oil for a different taste. Ensure chicken fingers are evenly coated for the best crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pecan-crusted chicken fingers with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce for a sweet and tangy contrast. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving them alongside Sydney Hart's Tomato Soup for a comforting twist on a classic dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit 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 Oven Baked Pecan-Crusted Chicken Fingers contains roughly 584 calories, with 24g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (57% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 8g 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 a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to chop them finely so they adhere well to the chicken fingers.
What can I serve with the chicken fingers?
These chicken fingers go great with a variety of sides. Consider pairing them with sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, or even a side of Dressing With Cornbread for a hearty meal.
Can I make the chicken fingers gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure your Essence seasoning doesn't contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious taste without the gluten.
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).