These Potato Chip Chicken Strips are a fun twist on classic chicken tenders, using crushed chips for an irresistibly crispy coating. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they’re oven-baked instead of fried, giving you all the crunch without the mess.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, packing lunches, or need a fast dinner fix, these chip-crusted tenders come together with pantry staples and minimal prep. They pair beautifully with your favorite sauces—think ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ—and make a tasty addition to salads or wraps. Comfort food just got an upgrade!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
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2 cups crushed potato chips (plain or flavored)
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp onion powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly coat with nonstick spray.
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Place the crushed potato chips in a shallow bowl. In a separate shallow bowl, add the flour seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a third bowl, whisk the eggs.
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Dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
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Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, then press into the crushed chips to fully coat.
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Arrange the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with nonstick spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
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Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F).
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Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Potato Chip Chicken Strips Are a Must-Try
Potato Chip Chicken Strips are a brilliant example of how a few pantry staples can turn into a memorable, crave-worthy meal. With a combination of juicy chicken tenderloins and a salty, crunchy chip coating, this dish offers a satisfying texture and bold flavor that appeals to both kids and adults alike. It’s a recipe that brings comfort food to a whole new level, blending familiarity with fun.
This oven-baked version of chicken strips replaces the deep fryer with a healthier approach, without sacrificing that all-important crunch. The crushed potato chips do all the heavy lifting when it comes to texture, creating a golden, crispy exterior that locks in the moisture of the chicken. It’s a great weeknight dinner idea, party finger food, or lunchbox filler that you can whip up in just over 30 minutes.
The Magic of Potato Chips as a Coating
Using potato chips as a breading is not only clever—it’s absolutely delicious. Potato chips are naturally seasoned, which means you’re infusing flavor into your crust without having to rely on tons of extra ingredients. Plus, the chips are already cooked, so when they go into the oven, they crisp up quickly and evenly.
Different flavors of potato chips can be used to mix things up. Try sour cream and onion for a tangy twist, BBQ for a smoky vibe, or jalapeño chips if you want to add a spicy kick. This versatility allows you to adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or the occasion.
Kid-Friendly, Parent-Approved
If you’re a parent looking for quick, reliable meals that your children will actually eat, these chicken strips are a winner. They resemble fast-food favorites but are baked at home, giving you more control over ingredients and nutrition. Kids love the crunch, while parents love that they’re baked, not fried. You can even turn it into a fun family activity by letting the little ones help coat the chicken in crushed chips.
Serve them with ketchup, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a homemade dipping sauce to elevate the flavor profile. They also go great with sides like sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Healthier than Fast Food (But Just as Tasty)
Although they taste indulgent, these potato chip chicken strips can be a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. Baking instead of frying reduces the fat content, and choosing the right type of chips can also make a difference. Opt for baked or low-sodium chips if you’re watching your salt intake.
You’re also skipping the preservatives and additives commonly found in restaurant or store-bought tenders. By making them from scratch, you control what goes into your food—an increasingly important factor for families who value wholesome home cooking.
A Great Recipe for Meal Prep
These chicken strips aren’t just good for dinner—they’re fantastic for meal prep. Make a big batch on the weekend and store them in the fridge or freezer. They reheat well in the oven or air fryer, maintaining much of their crispy coating without getting soggy. Add them to wraps, salads, grain bowls, or simply reheat for a quick lunch.
You can also slice them up and use them as a protein topper on pasta dishes or grain bowls. Because the flavor is so versatile, it works across cuisines and meals throughout the week.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Presentation can take this comfort food classic to the next level. Serve the strips in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for a diner-style look, or plate them with colorful dipping sauces for a more modern, Instagram-ready display. Pair with pickles, coleslaw, or a tangy slaw to contrast the richness of the chips.
For game day gatherings or parties, turn these into finger foods by slicing the chicken into smaller bites before breading and baking. Provide a range of dipping sauces and let guests mix and match. You can also skewer them for a fun, easy-to-serve option that minimizes mess and maximizes enjoyment.
Flavor Variations to Try
This recipe is highly adaptable to personal tastes. Some great variations include:
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Spicy Kick: Use jalapeño-flavored chips or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix grated Parmesan into the chip crumbs for a cheesy crust.
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Sweet & Smoky: Try barbecue chips and serve with honey mustard dipping sauce.
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Herb-Infused: Add dried oregano or thyme to the flour for a herby aroma.
You can also experiment with different proteins—turkey cutlets or tofu slices also work beautifully with this coating technique, especially for those wanting to switch things up or go meat-free.
Tips for Best Results
To get the crispiest, most flavorful chicken strips every time, follow these pro tips:
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Crush the chips finely, but leave some texture so you get that signature crunch.
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Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate around the chicken for even crisping.
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Lightly spray or drizzle with oil before baking to help the chips brown and crisp up more.
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Flip halfway through baking for an evenly golden crust on both sides.
Why This Recipe Works Every Time
The success of this recipe lies in its balance—simple technique, accessible ingredients, and consistent results. You don’t need a culinary degree or fancy gadgets to nail this dish. It’s straightforward enough for beginners but fun and flavorful enough to excite seasoned home cooks.
This is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again, not only because it’s easy, but because it delivers on both taste and texture. It’s adaptable, crowd-pleasing, and fast—everything a weeknight dinner should be.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, hosting friends for a movie night, or prepping school lunches, potato chip chicken strips fit the bill. They’re satisfying, comforting, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat. They also make a great option for potlucks, picnics, or tailgates—basically anywhere good food is appreciated.
Since they’re baked, they’re easier to scale up than fried versions. No standing over a hot oil pan for an hour—just prep, bake, and serve.
Conclusion: Comfort Food With a Crunchy Twist
Potato Chip Chicken Strips are a standout example of how innovation in the kitchen doesn’t require fancy techniques or obscure ingredients. By leveraging the crunch and flavor of potato chips, you create a dish that’s nostalgic yet fresh, comforting yet exciting.
This is a recipe made for real life—fast, flexible, and loved by all ages. Whether you’re new to cooking or a kitchen pro, adding these crispy strips to your weekly rotation is a decision your taste buds will thank you for. With countless ways to serve, customize, and enjoy, it’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family classic.