How Long to Cook Chicken Strips in the Oven at 400 Degrees: A Complete Guide

Chicken strips are a classic appetizer or main dish that both kids and adults love. Their crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior make them an irresistible finger food. But figuring out how long to cook chicken strips in the oven can be tricky. Undercook them and they’ll be soggy and raw. Overcook them and they’ll be dry and chewy.

Cooking chicken strips in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit is a great way to achieve perfectly crispy, cooked-through results every time. In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to bake flawless chicken strips, including ideal cook times, tips and tricks, serving suggestions, and troubleshooting advice.

The Magic Chicken Strip Bake Time at 400 Degrees

So how long exactly should you bake chicken strips at 400 degrees? The magic number is

15 to 20 minutes

This allows enough time for the breading to turn crispy and golden brown while the chicken cooks through fully. Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

With homemade chicken strips or smaller pre-breaded strips, err on the shorter end of this timeframe. For larger frozen chicken strips, you may need the full 20 minutes, especially if cooking from fully frozen.

Flipping the strips halfway through ensures even cooking on both sides. And always rely on an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness rather than just cooking time. Ovens can vary.

Understanding Why 400 Degrees Works So Well

There are good reasons why 400 degrees F is ideal for baking chicken strips. Here’s why this temperature produces the best results:

• It’s high enough to crisp up the exterior breading, giving you that satisfying crunch.

• The consistent heat thoroughly cooks the inside without drying it out

• It prevents burning the outside before the inside cooks through

• You avoid the uneven hot and cold spots that can happen when pan-frying.

• It’s hot enough to cook frozen chicken strips (extra time needed).

So for tender, juicy insides and crispy outer breading, 400 degrees is just right.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Perfect Chicken Strips

Follow these simple steps for flawlessly baked chicken strips every time:

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Make sure chicken strips are fully thawed if using frozen.

• Pat dry with paper towels so the breading sticks.

• Pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness if necessary.

• Cut into uniform strips for even cooking.

2. Bread the Chicken

• Season all over with salt, pepper, spices, etc.

• Coat in flour, beaten eggs, and/or breadcrumbs.

• Press so breading adheres. Don’t skip this step!

3. Bake in a 400°F Oven

• Preheat oven fully before baking.

• Place strips on a foil-lined baking sheet.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Check internal temperature of 165°F.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

And that’s all there is to it! Follow these simple steps for perfect oven-baked chicken strips every time.

Handy Tips and Tricks for Chicken Strip Baking Success

Here are some additional pointers to help ensure baking success:

• Let baked chicken strips rest for 5 minutes before eating for juicier meat.

• Brush strips with oil or nonstick spray so breading browns better.

• Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.

• Freeze raw breaded strips in a single layer on a baking sheet before bagging for convenience.

• Spice up the breading by adding garlic powder, paprika, herbs, etc.

• If strips aren’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end while watching closely.

• If strips are overcooked, reduce baking time and rely on a meat thermometer.

• Rotate pans and flip strips for even browning if oven has hot spots.

Serving and Dipping Ideas

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving oven-baked chicken strips. Here are just a few delicious ideas:

• Popular dipping sauces: Honey mustard, BBQ, ranch, blue cheese, sweet chili, etc.

• Serve on top of salads for added protein.

• Chop and add to pasta dishes, wraps, tacos, etc.

• Pair with classic sides like fries or potato wedges.

• Offer an assortment of global dipping sauces like Thai peanut, chimichurri, tzatziki, etc.

• Kids love chicken strips with mac and cheese or baked beans.

• Add some pizzazz by topping with grated Parmesan.

So dip, sauce, slice, dice or serve them whole. Oven-baked chicken strips are endlessly versatile!

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have some questions about baking chicken strips in the oven? Here are answers to some common FAQs:

Can I use frozen chicken strips?

Yes, but thaw them first and add a couple extra minutes to the cook time. Check the internal temperature.

Do I need to flip them halfway through?

Yes! This ensures even cooking and browning on both sides.

How do I know when they’re fully cooked?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What if my strips aren’t crispy?

Increase the temp to 425°F for the last 5 minutes and watch closely to avoid burning.

Why are my strips dry and chewy?

This happens if chicken is overcooked. Reduce baking time and rely on a thermometer for doneness.

Can I cook more than one batch at once?

Yes, but don’t overcrowd. You may need to increase cook time slightly.

How long do cooked strips last in the fridge?

Store leftover baked chicken strips in a sealed container for 3-4 days.

The Secret to Perfectly Baked Chicken Strips

As you can see, baking chicken strips in the oven at 400 degrees F really couldn’t be easier. In just 15-20 minutes, you can enjoy a healthier version of a fried favorite. Crispy, crunchy and full of flavor, homemade oven-baked chicken strips are sure to be a new family favorite.

The secret lies in that 400 degree sweet spot that crisps the outside and cooks the inside just right. Follow the tips in this guide for flawless results every time. Dip, slice, dice or serve whole alongside endless sides and sauces. Enjoy this versatile appetizer or meal anytime!