Name: Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 bag chicken breast strips; 2 cloves garlic; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese; parsley; ketchup

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about the aroma of Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips wafting through the kitchen. I still remember the first time I made these delicious bites for my family. It was a busy weeknight, and I wanted something quick yet satisfying for dinner. As I prepared the chicken, the blend of minced garlic and melted cheddar cheese filled the air, instantly making everyone’s mouth water. The kids could hardly wait for dinner to be served! These chicken strips quickly became a family favorite, not just for their incredible flavor but also for their simplicity. With just a few ingredients, I could whip up a meal that had everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these chicken strips are the perfect choice. Plus, they pair perfectly with a side of ketchup, making them an ultimate comfort food experience.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

Why Try This Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips

They Are So Easy to Make

We all have those days when time is short, but you still want something delicious. The Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips require minimal prep and cook time, making them an ideal choice for busy evenings. Just preheat the oven, assemble your ingredients, and let the oven do the work!

Perfect for All Ages

Kids and adults alike adore these chicken strips! They’re tender, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making them a hit among even the pickiest eaters. You can serve them as a main dish or as finger food for parties.

Customizable for Your Taste

One of the best features of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the amount of garlic for a stronger flavor or try different types of cheese to give it a unique twist.

Great for Meal Prepping

If you love to meal prep, this recipe is perfect for that too! You can make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Perfect for Sharing

Whether it’s a casual get-together or a game night, these chicken strips are a crowd-pleaser. They can be served with a variety of dips, enhancing the fun and flavors!

Main Ingredients for Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips

In crafting the Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips, each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The combination of chicken, cheddar cheese, and garlic creates a mouthwatering profile, while the parsley adds a fresh touch. Together, they create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

1 bag chicken breast strips – Using gluten-free, breaded chicken strips simplifies the process while ensuring a crispy exterior that everyone will love.
2 cloves garlic – Freshly minced garlic brings a robust flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese – The melted cheese adds richness and a delightful creaminess.
Parsley – Chopped parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.
Ketchup – A classic dipping sauce that pairs beautifully with these chicken strips.

Cooking Method for Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips

Cooking Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering dish that will surely impress family and friends.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (207°C). This is an important step to ensure that your chicken strips cook evenly and become nice and crispy.
While the oven heats up, take your bag of chicken breast strips and lay them out on a baking sheet. It’s best to arrange them in a single layer to allow for even cooking.
Now, take your garlic and finely mince it. Spread the minced garlic evenly over the chicken strips, ensuring that each piece gets its flavorful dose.
Next, grab your sharp cheddar cheese. Sprinkle it generously over the top of the chicken strips, letting it melt beautifully as they cook.
Don’t forget to add some chopped parsley on top! This not only adds a vibrant color but enhances the overall taste of the chicken.
Once everything is assembled, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Check to see if the chicken strips are nicely browned and cooked through. They should have a bubbly cheese topping that looks inviting.
Once done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let them cool for a moment before serving.
Serve hot alongside a small bowl of ketchup for dipping. The combination is simply irresistible!

Things Worth Knowing

Your chicken strips should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
Letting the chicken rest after baking can help retain its juiciness.
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken strips before you bake them.
Experiment with different cheeses; gouda or mozzarella can offer a unique twist!

Recipe Tips about Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips

Making the most out of your Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips can take your dish to the next level. Here are some tips to consider while preparing this recipe.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch, these chicken strips freeze well. Just ensure they are sealed properly to avoid freezer burn.
Pairing: These chicken strips pair wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add some freshness to your meal.
Garnishing: You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or some fresh herbs as a garnish for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Style: Serve these chicken strips as an appetizer at parties or as a main dish for family dinners.

What Goes Well With This Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips

Side Dishes: Consider serving them with roasted vegetables or a light salad to balance out the meal.
Occasions: Perfect for casual lunches, weeknight dinners, or even game day gatherings.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the fridge. They can be reheated easily for a quick snack.
Seasonal Pairings: Pair with seasonal salads in warmer months for a refreshing touch!
Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dips alongside the chicken strips, such as ranch or honey mustard, to cater to everyone’s taste.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken strips, just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Make sure to check that they are cooked through and reach the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Frozen strips may take a bit longer to bake, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time.

These chicken strips are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crispy fries for a fun twist! They also make a great appetizer when paired with different dipping sauces like ranch or barbeque.

Yes! If you choose gluten-free breaded chicken strips, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Just check the packaging to confirm that all the ingredients meet your dietary requirements. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish without any gluten.

Definitely! You can prepare the chicken strips in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just bake them, and they’ll be as delicious as freshly made. This is perfect for meal prep or when you’re hosting guests.

Conclusion

The Baked Garlic Cheddar Chicken Strips are an absolute delight, bringing together flavors that everyone loves. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Give these strips a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed; they might even become a staple in your household!