Parmesan Chicken Fingers
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Fingers feature tender chicken coated in seasoned bread crumbs and Parmesan, baked to perfection. Perfect for a family-friendly, flavorful meal or snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut each chicken breast into 3 to 4 fingers.
- In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
- Saute garlic in melted margarine until fragrant.
- Remove from heat.
- Dip chicken fingers into the bread crumb mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Place coated chicken in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Top chicken with remaining bread crumbs and melted margarine.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Cool slightly and cover loosely with foil before serving hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider using panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. If fresh parsley isn't available, dried parsley can be used, but reduce the amount to one tablespoon. To enhance flavor, try adding Italian seasoning or paprika to the breading mixture. If you wish for a lighter version, opt for olive oil instead of margarine.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken fingers are perfect as a main dish or as an appetizer. Serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Two-Step Chicken Pecan Salad or can be served with a light pasta dish for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Parmesan Chicken Fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Chicken Fingers contains roughly 539 calories, with 45g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (350% of the Daily Value), iron (159% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (140% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2734mg per serving (119% 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 chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier texture. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust the cooking time if necessary, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
Can I freeze Parmesan Chicken Fingers?
Absolutely! You can freeze them before baking. Place the coated chicken fingers on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I serve with Parmesan Chicken Fingers?
They pair well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving with Chicken Breast On Rice or a light green salad to balance the flavors.
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).