Name: Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 44 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenders (See link for details); kosher salt and pepper; garlic powder (See link for details); 1 cup flour (See link for details); 2 large eggs (lightly beaten); 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (See link for details); 1/4 cup seasoned fine breadcrumbs; olive oil spray (or nonstick spray, coconut oil spray, avocado oil spray, etc); 1 cup brown sugar (See link for details); 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (See link for details); 1 tablespoon water; 1 cup plain greek yogurt (See link for details); 1 lemon juiced; big pinch of kosher salt and pepper; 3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese; 2 green onions thinly sliced (See link for details)

Introduction to Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce

Why settle for fast food when homemade is an option? If you're craving something deliciously crispy and packed with flavor, look no further than Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce! This recipe marries the joy of crispy chicken tenders with a tangy, creamy dip—perfect for a weeknight dinner or gathering with friends.

Cooking at home not only offers you fresher ingredients, but it allows you to customize your meal to fit your taste preferences. You can control the level of spices or even sneak in some extra veggies if you’d like! This dish is not just easy to prepare, but also an absolute crowd-pleaser. Think about it: instead of the usual fast-food option, you're whipping up a chicken dish that delivers crunch, sweetness, and that zingy blue cheese flavor.

Want to take your dipping game to the next level? The Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce is a healthier alternative to traditional dressings, allowing you to indulge without guilt. Plus, it’s simple to make and pairs beautifully with the sticky sweetness of the chicken. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients for Sticky Chicken Fingers

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken

To whip up the Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce, you’ll need some essential ingredients that are easy to find:

1 pound chicken tenders – These juicy pieces are perfect for soaking up flavor.
Kosher salt and pepper – Basic seasonings that elevate taste.
Garlic powder – Adds a lovely savory kick.
1 cup flour – For that perfect crispy coating.
2 large eggs – Lightly beaten, they help the breadcrumbs stick.
Panko breadcrumbs and seasoned fine breadcrumbs – For that irresistible crunch!
Olive oil spray – Keeps everything from sticking and enhances browning.
Brown sugar, buffalo wing sauce, unsalted butter, and water – These ingredients create that deliciously sticky glaze.

Key Components for the Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce

Now, let’s dive into the creamy goodness of the yogurt blue cheese sauce. You'll need:

1 cup plain Greek yogurt – A creamy base that's healthier than sour cream.
Juice of 1 lemon – Brightens the flavor significantly.
Kosher salt and pepper – To taste.
¾ cup crumbled blue cheese – For that bold, tangy flavor.
2 green onions – Thinly sliced for a fresh crunch.

These ingredients combined create a delicious balance to the sticky chicken, ready for dipping!

Step-by-step Preparation of Sticky Chicken Fingers

Making Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce is not only enjoyable but also straightforward. Follow these steps for a deliciously sticky result!

Preheat the Oven

Let's kick things off by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden-brown finish we all crave. While it heats up, line a baking sheet with a wire rack and give it a good spray of nonstick oil, whether you opt for olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil. This little trick ensures your chicken fingers don't stick and that the breading stays nice and crispy!

Prepare the Chicken for Breading

Now it’s time to prepare the chicken. Take 1 pound of chicken tenders and give them a sprinkle of kosher salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. Don’t skimp on this seasoning! It’ll elevate the flavor beautifully. Set the seasoned chicken aside while we prepare the breading station.

Create the Breading Assembly Line

To streamline the breading process, set up three bowls or large plates in a row:

Bowl 1: Fill with 1 cup of flour.
Bowl 2: Add 2 lightly beaten eggs.
Bowl 3: Mix ¾ cup of panko breadcrumbs with ¼ cup of seasoned fine breadcrumbs.

Once you've got this assembly line set up, you're just a few steps away from dinner bliss!

Bake the Chicken Fingers

Take each piece of chicken and first coat it in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and lastly, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is well-covered. Transfer your breaded chicken fingers to the prepared wire rack. Now, bake them for about 12 minutes, then flip them over and cook for an additional 12 minutes.

Make the Sticky Sauce While the Chicken Cooks

While your chicken is baking, it’s the perfect time to whip up the sticky sauce. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of buffalo wing sauce, 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and 1 tablespoon of water. Heat it on medium, whisking until the sugar dissolves. Let it come to a slight boil, lower the heat, and simmer for about two minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent it from burning!

Combine the Chicken with the Sauce and Serve

Once the chicken fingers are baked to perfection, carefully lift them off the wire rack with a spatula or tongs. Place them in a bowl and drizzle your sticky sauce over them. Be cautious—don’t let them sit too long in the sauce, as it will become thick and might pull off the delicious crust! Toss them lightly, and serve immediately alongside your yogurt blue cheese sauce for dipping.

Now you're ready to enjoy these mouthwatering Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce! Bon appétit!

Variations on Sticky Chicken Fingers

Spicy Sticky Chicken Fingers

For those who love a kick, transforming your Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce into a spicy delight is easy! Simply add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. You can also mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili powder to the brown sugar sauce for a fiery twist. Imagine the perfect balance of sweetness and heat!

Non-Traditional Dipping Sauces

While yogurt blue cheese is delicious, don’t shy away from experimenting with alternative dipping sauces. Consider a tangy honey mustard or a zesty chimichurri for a refreshing contrast. For a unique take, try a peanut sauce made with natural peanut butter or a spicy sriracha mayo. These options not only keep things interesting but bring a whole new level to your sticky chicken finger experience! If you're curious about dipping sauces, check out this article for some inspo. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Sticky Chicken Fingers

How to Achieve the Perfect Crispiness

For Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce, achieving that irresistible crunch is key. Make sure your chicken tenders are dry before breading; pat them down with a paper towel to remove any moisture. Use a wire rack for baking to allow hot air to circulate evenly around the chicken, enhancing the crispiness. For extra crunch, try double-dipping: coat the chicken in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then repeat. Finally, a light spray of olive oil ensures the coating gets that golden-brown color.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you have leftovers of your Sticky Chicken Fingers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For maximum freshness and crunchiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes instead of using a microwave; this keeps the coating crispy. If you want to save it for longer, consider freezing the chicken before it’s sauced. Just reheat thoroughly when ready to enjoy again!

Serving Suggestions for Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce

Ideal Side Dishes and Accompaniments

To elevate your Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce, consider pairing them with:

Fries or Sweet Potato Wedges: A crispy side adds a delightful texture contrast.
Coleslaw: Its crunchiness and tanginess balance the richness of the chicken.
Vegetable Sticks: Carrots and cucumbers provide a fresh, crisp complement.

For a more wholesome option, a side salad tossed with a light vinaigrette can enhance the meal's freshness.

Presentation Tips to Impress Your Guests

Wow your friends with a stunning presentation! Serve the chicken on a wooden board or a colorful plate. Drizzle the yogurt blue cheese sauce over the chicken in a zigzag pattern for a lovely touch. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for that extra flair. Lastly, add lemon wedges on the side so guests can add a zesty kick as they please. Not only will the dish taste incredible, but your guests will also be drawn in by its beautiful aesthetics!

Time Breakdown for Sticky Chicken Fingers

Preparation Time
Get ready to whip up a delicious dish in just 15 minutes! You'll need this time to gather your ingredients and prep the chicken fingers.

Cooking Time
These Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce cook in about 24 minutes. This includes both baking and making that irresistible sauce!

Total Time
In just 39 minutes, you'll have a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the journey of cooking while your delicious chicken sticks bake to perfection!

Nutritional Facts for Sticky Chicken Fingers

Calories
These scrumptious Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce pack about 320 calories per serving. It's a satisfying meal option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Protein
Each serving offers around 25 grams of protein, making it a delightful choice post-workout or whenever you need to refuel after a busy day.

Sodium
While deliciously flavorful, be mindful that these chicken fingers contain approximately 800 milligrams of sodium. Pair them with fresh veggies to balance your meal!

Explore more about the nutritional benefits of chicken on Healthline.

FAQs about Sticky Chicken Fingers

Can I bake chicken fingers instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Baking is a great way to achieve crispy chicken fingers without the oil mess. For our Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce, preheat your oven to 425°F, follow the baking instructions in the recipe, and you’ll have delicious, healthier chicken tenders ready to enjoy in no time!

What other sauces pair well with these chicken fingers?

While the Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce is a perfect match, consider trying a honey mustard dressing or a spicy sriracha mayo for a zesty kick. You can also explore sweet and tangy BBQ sauce or even a classic ranch dip — the options are endless and delicious!

How can I make a healthier version of sticky chicken fingers?

To lighten things up, opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular ones, and consider using air frying instead of baking or frying. You can also reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Healthier doesn’t mean compromising on taste!

Conclusion on Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce

In summary, the Sticky Chicken Fingers with Yogurt Blue Cheese Sauce are a delightful fusion of flavors that cater perfectly to any occasion. These crispy, tender chicken bites paired with a tangy yogurt dip not only satisfy cravings but also offer a fun cooking experience. Give it a try and enjoy!