If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to add more protein to your diet, why not try some healthy chicken strip recipes? Chicken strips are a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used in a variety of meals, from salads and wraps to pasta dishes and stir-frys. With these healthy recipes, you can enjoy all the flavorful goodness of chicken strips without any of the guilt that comes with typical fast food versions. So if you’re ready to up your healthy eating game, read on for some tasty, nutritious chicken strip recipes!
What Are Healthy Chicken Strips?
Healthy chicken strips are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a tasty meal without adding too many calories or unhealthy ingredients. Chicken strips are typically made by cutting chicken breasts into thin, long pieces that resemble fries or strips, and then coating them in a mixture of spices and bread crumbs.
There are many different ways to make healthy chicken strips, depending on your dietary requirements and preferences. Some people prefer to use whole-grain or gluten-free bread crumbs, while others like to use almond flour or coconut flakes for a crunchy texture. No matter what ingredients you choose, the key is to keep your chicken strips lean and low-fat, so that they can be a healthy addition to your diet.
Why Are Healthy Chicken Strips Good for You?
Healthy chicken strips are a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. They also contain other important nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B6, which help to support a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin and hair, and reduce inflammation in the body.
If you’re trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, then chicken strips are a great option, as they are low in calories and fat. By baking your chicken strips instead of frying them, you can reduce the amount of calories and fat even further, making them an ideal meal for anyone who is watching their weight or trying to eat healthier.
How Can You Make Healthy Chicken Strips?
If you’re looking for an easy and healthy recipe for chicken strips, then try this one:
- Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup of whole-grain bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut your chicken breasts into thin, long pieces, and season them with oregano, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, beat your egg with a fork until frothy.
- In another bowl, mix your bread crumbs with the remaining spices.
- Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, and then coat it in the bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the crumbs stick to the chicken.
- Place your chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden-brown and crispy.
- Serve your chicken strips with your favorite dipping sauce, or enjoy them plain as a healthy snack or meal.
Why Opt for Healthy Chicken Strip Recipes?
Chicken strips may be a classic comfort food, but the traditional recipe is not the healthiest choice for those trying to maintain a balanced diet. Fortunately, healthy variations of chicken strip recipes are available that allow for guilt-free enjoyment. By using healthier ingredients and cooking methods, you can still savor the taste of your favorite comfort food without worrying about excess calories, fat, or sodium. Here are a few reasons why opting for healthy chicken strip recipes is a wise choice:
1. Nutritious Ingredients
Healthy chicken strip recipes often incorporate nutritious ingredients that are packed with vitamins and minerals. A few examples of these ingredients include almonds, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, and coconut. By using whole, unprocessed foods and ingredients that are high in fiber and protein, you can create a delicious meal that keeps you fuller for longer periods of time.
2. Reduced Fat Content and Fewer Calories
One of the biggest health benefits of healthy chicken strips recipes is that they contain fewer calories and less fat than traditional recipes. By using leaner cuts of chicken, such as skinless chicken breasts, and baking or air frying instead of deep frying, you can dramatically reduce the calorie and fat content of your favorite comfort food.
Healthy chicken strip recipes can be tailored to fit various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste. Recipes can include vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options that still maintain the flavor of the original dish. By switching to healthy chicken strip recipes, you can maintain your dietary goals and overall health, while also enjoying delicious food.
Healthy Chicken Strip Recipe Ingredients
If you are looking for a delicious and healthy meal for your family, then chicken strips may be a perfect choice. Chicken strip recipes are easy to make and can be a healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken. To ensure that your chicken strips are healthy and full of flavor, you will need to use some essential ingredients.
Chicken Breast
One of the most important ingredients in healthy chicken strip recipes is chicken breast. This cut of chicken is lean and high in protein, making it an essential ingredient for any healthy meal. Choose organic or hormone-free chicken if possible, and always wash it thoroughly before cooking.
Whole Wheat Flour
Another essential ingredient in healthy chicken strip recipes is whole wheat flour. This type of flour is high in fiber and nutrients, making it a much healthier option than white flour. Whole wheat flour can give your chicken strips a nutty flavor and crispy texture, all while providing some essential vitamins and minerals.
Panko Breadcrumbs
When making healthy chicken strips, you will need to use breadcrumbs to provide a crispy coating. Panko breadcrumbs are an excellent option as they are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs. They also absorb less oil, making your chicken strips healthier and less greasy.
Spices and Seasonings
Finally, the secret to delicious and healthy chicken strips lies in the spices and seasonings used in the recipe. Garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper are some of the spices and seasonings that can add some flavor and heat to your chicken strips. You can also use other spices and herbs, such as basil, thyme, or oregano, to give your chicken strips a unique flavor and aroma.
Best Healthy Chicken Strip Recipe Alternatives
Chicken strips, also known as chicken tenders, are a popular snack or meal option among all age groups. However, they are usually high in calories, unhealthy fats, and sodium if cooked by deep-frying. Fortunately, many healthy chicken strip recipe alternatives can help you enjoy this dish without feeling guilty. Here are some of the best options:
Baked Chicken Tenders
One of the easiest ways to make healthy chicken strips is by baking them instead of frying. Baked chicken tenders are crispy and delicious, and the recipe requires only a few ingredients. To get started, preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking pan with parchment paper. Then, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk an egg and milk, and place the chicken strips in the mixture. Coat each piece with the flour mixture and place them on the baking pan. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden.
Air Fryer Chicken Strips
Another healthy alternative to deep-frying chicken strips is by using an air fryer. Air fryer chicken strips are crispy and flavorful, but require very little oil, which greatly reduces the fat content. To start, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In another bowl, beat an egg, and in a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dip the chicken strips in the flour mixture, followed by the egg, and then the panko mixture. Place the coated chicken strips in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the crust is golden and crispy.
Grilled Chicken Strips
Grilled chicken strips are a healthier option than deep-fried chicken strips, as they contain less fat and fewer calories. Plus, grilling chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grease the grates with oil. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, and any other spices of your choice. Grill the chicken strips for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have char marks. Serve with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
Mixed Herb Chicken Strips
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch strips
- 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
This mixed herb chicken strip recipe is perfect for those who want to add a different flavor to their chicken strips. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Depending on the size of your chicken strips, prepare three bowls: one with flour and herbs, one with eggs, and one with panko and Parmesan cheese. Toss the chicken strips in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip them in the egg mixture and finally in the panko mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs into the chicken strips. Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or salad.
Healthy Chicken Strip Dips and Sauces
Adding dips and sauces to healthy chicken strips is a great way to enhance the flavor and make them more enjoyable. Here are some of the best dips and sauces to serve with healthy chicken strips:
Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a delicious and healthy dip that goes well with chicken strips. Made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice, tzatziki sauce is a low-calorie and low-fat option that adds a creamy texture to chicken strips. The yogurt base also provides protein and calcium, making it a nutritious choice.
Greek Yogurt Dipping Sauce
Greek yogurt is a versatile ingredient that can be used to make a variety of healthy dips and sauces. To make a simple Greek yogurt dipping sauce, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices. This dip is low in fat and calories and high in protein, making it a great choice for those trying to eat healthy.
Honey Mustard Sauce
Honey mustard sauce is a classic sauce that goes well with chicken strips. To make a healthier version, use a reduced-fat mayonnaise and honey instead of sugar. You can also add some spices to the mix to give it more flavor. This sauce is a great option for those who want a sweet and tangy taste without the added sugar and calories.
Spicy Sriracha Mayonnaise
If you like your chicken strips with a kick, try making a spicy sriracha mayonnaise. Mix reduced-fat mayonnaise with sriracha sauce, lime juice, and garlic for a dip with a bold and spicy flavor. This sauce is low in calories and can be adjusted to your preferred level of spiciness.
Pesto Sauce
Pesto sauce is a flavorful and healthy sauce that goes well with chicken strips. Made with basil, olive oil, and garlic, pesto sauce is a low-carb and low-fat option that adds a fresh and herby taste to chicken strips. You can also add some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. This sauce is a great option for those who want a more sophisticated taste.
Amazing Healthy Chicken Strip Recipe Variations
Chicken strips are a classic favorite, and adding a healthy twist to this dish is easier than you think. Here are some amazing and easy-to-make healthy chicken strip recipe variations to try out!
Buffalo-style Chicken Strips
If you’re looking for something with a bit of a kick, then buffalo-style chicken strips are perfect. Start by seasoning boneless and skinless chicken breasts with chili powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and dip them in an egg wash. Next, coat each strip in a mixture of almond flour and cayenne pepper. In a separate bowl, combine hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and coconut oil. Dip each chicken strip into the hot sauce mixture and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes and enjoy!
Coconut-crusted Chicken Strips
If you’re a fan of coconut, then this recipe is for you. Start by seasoning boneless and skinless chicken breasts with onion powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and prepare a coconut crust mixture. Mix together shredded coconut, almond flour, and coconut flour. Dip each chicken strip into an egg wash and coat them in the coconut crust mixture. Bake for 12-15 minutes and enjoy the tropical flavor!
Almond-crusted Chicken Strips
For those who love anything almond, this recipe will hit the spot. Start by seasoning boneless and skinless chicken breasts with smoked paprika, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and prepare an almond crust mixture. Mix together almond flour, parmesan cheese, and dried basil. Dip each chicken strip into an egg wash and coat them in the almond crust mixture. Bake for 12-15 minutes and enjoy the nutty flavor!
Avocado Chicken Strips
If you’re looking for a recipe that is both healthy and easy to make, then this is perfect. Start by seasoning boneless and skinless chicken breasts with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and season them further with lime juice and garlic. Cut an avocado into small pieces and place them in a blender. Add in greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, and salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and use this mixture as a dipping sauce for the chicken strips. Bake for 12-15 minutes and enjoy the creamy avocado dip!
Zucchini Chicken Strips
If you want to sneak in some veggies into your dish, then zucchini chicken strips are perfect. Start by seasoning boneless and skinless chicken breasts with oregano, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and dip them in an egg wash. Prepare a coating mixture by mixing together almond flour, ground flaxseed, and grated parmesan cheese. Cut a zucchini into thin sticks and coat them in the coating mixture. Place the zucchini sticks on a baking sheet alongside the chicken strips and bake for 12-15 minutes.
Mushroom Chicken Strips
Mushrooms add a rich umami flavor and make for a great healthy coating for chicken strips. Start by seasoning boneless and skinless chicken breasts with thyme and salt. Cut the chicken breasts into strips and saute some shiitake mushrooms in a pan with minced garlic and olive oil. Once the mushrooms have cooled down, finely chop them and mix them with almond flour and grated parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken strip into an egg wash and coat them in the mushroom mixture. Bake for 12-15 minutes and enjoy the earthy mushroom coating!
Common Healthy Chicken Strip Recipe FAQs
Chicken strips are a popular food among all ages. It is easy to make and can be used for various meals, such as sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, and more. Healthy chicken strip recipes are a great option for those who are health-conscious and want to enjoy their favorite food without feeling guilty. Here are some frequently asked questions about healthy chicken strip recipes.
What is the best flour to use for healthy chicken strips?
The type of flour used in making chicken strips can affect the texture and overall taste of the dish. The best flour for healthy chicken strips is whole wheat flour. Whole wheat flour is higher in fiber and protein, making it a healthier option than all-purpose flour. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. Another option is using almond flour, which is gluten-free and low in carbohydrates. Using these flours in your recipe will not only make your chicken strips healthier, but it will also give a unique flavor and texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Chicken breast is the most commonly used meat in making chicken strips. However, chicken thighs are also a good alternative. Chicken thighs are juicier and more tender than chicken breast. They are also more flavorful, which can enhance the taste of your chicken strips. Using chicken thighs will not affect the overall healthiness of your recipe, but it may increase the calories and fat content. If you prefer chicken thighs, be mindful of the portion size and use skinless and boneless chicken thighs for a healthier option.
How can I make healthy chicken strips gluten-free?
For those who are sensitive to gluten or have Celiac disease, making healthy chicken strips gluten-free is easy. Instead of using regular flour, you can use gluten-free flours such as rice flour, cornmeal, or chickpea flour. These flours are widely available in supermarkets and health food stores. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating. Another tip is to substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free version or use alternatives such as coconut aminos or Bragg’s Liquid Aminos. With these substitutes, you can create a gluten-free and healthy chicken strip recipe.
Can I freeze healthy chicken strips?
Yes, you can freeze healthy chicken strips. Freezing is a great way to preserve the chicken strips for future consumption, especially when you have leftovers. Before freezing, make sure that the chicken strips are cooled down to room temperature. You should also wrap the chicken strips individually or use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn and maintain the flavor. Frozen chicken strips can last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, place the chicken strips in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crunchiness.
Stay Healthy With Delicious Chicken Strips
Thank you so much for taking the time to read about fantastic, healthy chicken strip recipes! Whether you’re a picky eater or just looking for different ways to enjoy chicken, these recipes are sure to leave your taste buds happy and your body nourished. Next time you’re looking for a healthy meal option, give one of these recipes a try. And make sure to come back for more tasty articles on healthy food!