The Best Baked Chicken Fingers You'll EVER eat!

 
       I have made these chicken fingers twice in the last two weeks. That NEVER happens! Most dishes never make a repeat appearance, and if they do, it is several weeks later. This is looking like a weekly meal for us. Brian just can't get enough of these and I don't mind because they are such a healthy version of chicken fingers.
        I have tried to make baked chicken fingers a few times and have never been happy with the results. They just never seem to get crispy enough. But these chicken fingers, from Sweet Pea's Kitchen, are the exception. They are super crispy and light; and they aren't the least bit greasy. The trick is to toast the panko in a pan before crusting the chicken. That way they are nice and crispy before they even hit the oven. GENIUS! They are also quick and easy to prepare, which makes them the perfect weeknight meal. So please, make these tomorrow....and the next day...and the day after that......

 

Crispy Baked Chicken Fingers
(from Sweet Pea's Kitchen )


2 cups panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons canola oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 large egg whites
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1 1/2 lb chicken tenderloins (or boneless, skinless breasts cut into 3/4-inch strips)

Preheat oven to 475 degrees and set a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet; spray with cooking spray.
Combine canola oil and breadcrumbs in a skillet and cook over med-high heat, stirring constantly, until browned. Remove from heat and let cool.
In a shallow dish, combine flour, cayenne, and garlic powder.
In another shallow dish, combine egg whites, water, thyme, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until eggs are broken up and mixture is foamy.
Season chicken with salt &pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, then the egg whites, and finally the toasted panko; coating evenly. Place on wire rack making sure not to crowd them to close together.
Spray chicken lightly with cooking spray and bake 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy!