When you’re craving crispy chicken strips but want something a little healthier than the traditional breaded version, Quinoa-Crusted Chicken Strips are the perfect solution. This recipe delivers everything you love about classic chicken tenders—a crunchy golden coating, juicy chicken, and plenty of flavor—while swapping breadcrumbs for protein-packed quinoa. The result is a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious, making it a favorite for busy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even game-day snacks. Quinoa‘s naturally nutty flavor creates a wonderfully crisp crust that pairs beautifully with tender chicken.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, health-conscious adults, or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter comfort food, these chicken strips are guaranteed to please. The quinoa coating creates an irresistible crunch without the heaviness of deep-fried breading, while simple seasonings allow the flavor of the chicken to shine through. Serve them fresh from the oven with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, barbecue, buffalo sauce, or a creamy garlic aioli for a meal that’s every bit as satisfying as takeout. Quinoa also adds extra fiber, minerals, and plant-based protein compared to traditional coatings, making this a wholesome twist on a family favorite.
These Quinoa-Crusted Chicken Strips are also incredibly adaptable. Pair them with roasted vegetables, a crisp garden salad, sweet potato fries, or a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal. Slice them over a Caesar salad, tuck them into wraps, or pack them in lunchboxes for an easy meal the next day. They’re equally delicious served as an appetizer for parties or as a protein-packed snack after a busy day.
If you’re looking for a recipe that combines wholesome ingredients with comfort food appeal, this one checks every box. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite, these Quinoa-Crusted Chicken Strips prove that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing the foods you love. Once you try this crunchy quinoa coating, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again.
Check out these Tasty Quinoa Recipes to perfectly cook quinoa for every occasion. Healthy super-grains never tasted so good.
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Quinoa Crusted Chicken Strips
- Total Time: 1:10
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders, cut into strips
- 1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon fresh black pepper pepper
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silpat.
- Spread the quinoa on the prepared baking sheet and bake until toasted, golden brown and crispy, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool, then transfer all but 1/3 cup to a food processor or high powdered blender. Process the quinoa until half of it is ground into flour and the other half is in small pieces, about 1-2 minutes.
- Increase the oven temperature to 475 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray or brush it with the olive oil.
- Add the quinoa crumbs + the 1/3 cup of reserved quinoa to a large bowl and add in the Panko bread crumbs, pepper and seasoned salt. Stir to combine.
- In another bowl combine the buttermilk and chicken, toss well.
- Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, and dredge through the crumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the chicken has been used. Make sure not to crowd your pan, if necessary use two baking sheets. Lightly spray the fingers with cooking spray or a mist of olive oil.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, then gently flip using kitchen tongs and spray the other side. Bake for 10-12 minutes more, then remove from oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and or parsley + a lemon wedge if desired.
- Prep Time: :20
- Cook Time: :50
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Oven