Parmesan Chicken Sticks
Savory Parmesan chicken sticks—crispy, cheesy bites perfect for parties or quick meals, delivering salty, nutty flavors that satisfy both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut chicken breasts into sticks, about 1/2-inch thick.
- Season flour with salt and pepper.
- Whisk eggs in a shallow dish.
- Combine bread crumbs and grated Parmesan in another dish.
- Dredge each chicken stick in seasoned flour, then dip in eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat a drizzle of butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken sticks until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer seared sticks to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve hot with marinara or ranch sauce for dipping.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to your breadcrumb mixture. If you want a healthier option, substitute whole wheat flour for regular flour and use panko breadcrumbs for added crunch. You can also use different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Romano, to vary the taste. Pair these sticks with marinara sauce for a classic Italian touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Parmesan chicken sticks with a side of marinara or ranch dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer or snack. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve alongside rigatoni alla carbonara or chicken pasta Parmesan for a satisfying Italian-inspired dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Parmesan chicken sticks 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 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring they remain crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Chicken Sticks contains roughly 1341 calories, with 49g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (99% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1004mg per serving (44% 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 make these chicken sticks in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken sticks ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just follow the recipe up to the searing step, then store the coated sticks in the fridge. When ready to eat, sear and bake them as directed for a quick meal.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. Alternatively, nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free option that provides a cheesy taste without the calories. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the meat should be no longer pink in the center. This ensures a safe and delicious 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).