Oven-Baked Spicy Panko Chicken Strips

Oven-Baked Spicy Panko Chicken Strips
Introduction
If you’re craving crispy, flavorful chicken strips without the grease of deep-frying, these
Oven-Baked Spicy Panko Chicken Strips are your perfect fix. Coated in a seasoned spicy breadcrumb mix
and baked until golden brown, these strips are crunchy on the outside and tender inside — an irresistible combo!
Great for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter, optional for extra crispiness)
Optional for Serving:
- Ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo dipping sauce
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a wire rack placed on the baking sheet. - Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into even strips, about 1 inch wide. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Set Up Dredging Station:
- Place flour in one bowl.
- In a second bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
- In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Drizzle with olive oil and mix until crumbs are lightly coated.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken strip first into flour (shake off excess), then into egg mixture,
and finally coat generously in the spicy panko mix. Press gently so the coating sticks well. - Bake: Arrange coated strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through
(internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). - Serve: Let the strips cool slightly, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Description
These oven-baked spicy panko chicken strips are the perfect balance of
heat, crunch, and tenderness. The panko gives them a restaurant-style crispiness,
while the blend of spices adds a bold, flavorful kick. Since they’re baked—not fried—you can enjoy that
satisfying crunch with much less oil and mess. Ideal for kids and adults alike, they make a perfect snack,
appetizer, or main dish.
Tips
- For extra crunch: Place the coated chicken on a wire rack instead of directly on the baking sheet.
- Make it milder: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a kid-friendly version.
- Make ahead: Bread the chicken strips, then freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
- Crispier texture: Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil before baking.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Correction
If your chicken turns out soggy, it’s likely because:
- The oven wasn’t hot enough (ensure preheating to 425°F).
- The chicken pieces were overcrowded (leave space for airflow).
- You didn’t use a wire rack (it helps heat circulate evenly).
To fix it next time, bake on a rack and don’t overcrowd the tray.
Enjoy
Serve these crispy, spicy delights with your favorite dipping sauces, a side of fries, or a crisp salad.
Whether for game night or a family dinner, Oven-Baked Spicy Panko Chicken Strips will definitely become a crowd favorite —
crunchy, spicy, and totally delicious!



