Description
These Low Carb Parmesan Chicken Fingers are a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional breaded chicken fingers. Coated in a flavorful blend of parmesan cheese and spices, then baked or air fried to crispy perfection, they make a perfect protein-packed snack or meal. Served with lazy tzatziki dip and garnished with parsley, chili flakes, and lemon wedges, this recipe is quick, easy, and great for a low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1.75 lbs chicken breasts
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 ounces freshly grated parmesan cheese
For Serving
- Lazy tzatziki dip
- Fresh parsley, chopped (garnish)
- Chili pepper flakes (garnish)
- Lemon wedges (garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven or Air Fryer: Set your oven or air fryer to 400℉ to prepare it for cooking the chicken fingers.
- Prepare Fresh Parmesan: Place the freshly grated parmesan cheese in a shallow dish for dipping the chicken strips.
- Coat Chicken Pieces: Pat the chicken breasts dry and slice each into 2 or 3 thick strips. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, 1/4 cup grated parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Dip and Arrange: Dip each coated chicken strip into the shallow dish of fresh parmesan cheese, pressing lightly to adhere. Place the chicken strips on a baking sheet or air fryer basket with the cheese side down. Sprinkle leftover fresh parmesan cheese on top of the pieces if any remains.
- Cook the Chicken Fingers: Bake in the oven for 15-17 minutes or air fry for approximately 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165℉ for safe consumption.
- Serve: Garnish the cooked chicken fingers with chopped parsley, chili pepper flakes, and lemon wedges. Serve alongside lazy tzatziki dip for a refreshing accompaniment.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before coating helps the seasoning stick better.
- Adjust the spices according to your preferred heat level.
- Using freshly grated parmesan cheese provides better flavor and texture than pre-grated.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked.
- These chicken fingers can be served with various dips such as ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for best crispiness.