Name: Mediterranean Vegetable Chip Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling); 1 pound chicken breast (cut into strips); 4 tablespoons butter (melted); 1/4 cup buttermilk (for marinating); 1 oz Mediterranean veggie chips (crushed, I used Terra brand); 2 teaspoons seasoned salt; 2 teaspoons pepper

Are you ready to take your chicken dinner to the next level? This Mediterranean Vegetable Chip Crusted Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional breaded chicken, bringing the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. With its crispy chip crust and juicy chicken strips, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Let’s dive into the details!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Mediterranean Vegetable Chip Crusted Chicken is not only delicious but also visually appealing. The colorful vegetable chips add a beautiful crunch and a burst of flavor that will excite your taste buds. It’s a great way to introduce more veggies into your diet without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s a fun and interactive dish that allows everyone to enjoy the crispy texture while savoring the succulent chicken. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this dish is sure to please!

What You’ll Gather

1 tablespoon olive oil – For a touch of richness.
1 pound chicken breast cut into strips – The star of the show!
4 tablespoons butter, melted – Adds moisture and flavor.
1/4 cup buttermilk – For marinating and tenderizing the chicken.
1 oz bag Mediterranean veggie chips (I used Terra brand) – The crunchy, flavorful crust.
2 teaspoons seasoned salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
2 teaspoons pepper – For a little kick.

Recommended Tools

Baking sheet – For even cooking of the chicken.
Mixing bowls – To combine the buttermilk and melted butter.
Meat mallet or rolling pin – To crush the vegetable chips for the crust.
Cooking spray – Optional, for a crispier finish.

Step-by-Step: Mediterranean Vegetable Chip Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and buttermilk. Dip each chicken strip into the buttermilk mixture, coating it well. This step helps to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Crush the Vegetable Chips

In a separate bowl, take your Mediterranean veggie chips and crush them into smaller pieces. You can use a meat mallet or rolling pin for this. The smaller pieces will adhere better to the chicken.

Step 4: Season the Coating

Mix the crushed vegetable chips with seasoned salt and pepper in a shallow dish. This will create a flavorful crust that complements the chicken perfectly.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Take each buttermilk-coated chicken strip and dredge it in the crushed vegetable chip mixture, pressing down to ensure a good coating.

Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil for an added layer of flavor and to help with browning.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

Pair with a fresh Greek salad topped with feta and olives for a refreshing side.
Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
Accompany with tzatziki sauce for a creamy and tangy dip.
Enjoy with a side of quinoa or couscous for a hearty, wholesome meal.

Cook’s Commentary

This Mediterranean Vegetable Chip Crusted Chicken is versatile and can easily be adapted. Feel free to experiment with different flavors of vegetable chips or even blend in some herbs and spices into the coating for added depth. The buttermilk is key to achieving tender chicken, so don’t skip that step! This dish can also be made ahead of time and reheated when you’re ready to serve.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooked chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through for the best texture. Microwaving is an option but may result in a softer crust.

Ask the Chef

Can I use other types of chips for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Mediterranean veggie chips provide a unique flavor, feel free to experiment with other chip varieties like tortilla chips or even panko breadcrumbs for a different twist.

Is there a gluten-free option for the chips?

Yes! Look for gluten-free vegetable chips or panko breadcrumbs made from gluten-free grains. Just ensure that any chips you choose meet your dietary needs.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken in the buttermilk and butter mixture overnight will enhance the flavor and tenderness, making it even more delicious!

What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?

Tzatziki sauce, garlic aioli, or a spicy harissa yogurt dip would all be fabulous accompaniments to elevate your Mediterranean Vegetable Chip Crusted Chicken experience.

Final Bite

This Mediterranean Vegetable Chip Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that’s full of flavor and texture. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a simple family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. With its crunchy chip crust and juicy chicken, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for more. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Enjoy the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean with every bite, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!