Jordanian Chicken Fingers

Authentic Jordanian Chicken Fingers Recipe - Delicious & Easy!

Region / culture: Jordan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Jordanian Chicken Fingers are a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. These crispy chicken fingers are coated in a mixture of yogurt and herbs, then baked to perfection. They make a great appetizer or main course for any occasion.

History

The origins of Jordanian Chicken Fingers can be traced back to traditional Jordanian cuisine, where yogurt and herbs are commonly used in cooking. This recipe puts a modern twist on a classic dish, creating a healthier and more flavorful version of the traditional fried chicken fingers.

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken halves
2 tbsp plain low-fat yogurt
15 soda crackers, crushed
1 tsp dried thyme
0.5 tsp dried marjoram
0.25 tsp curry powder
salt to taste

How to prepare

Trim the visible fat from the chicken and cut each breast into 6 even strips.
Coat the chicken pieces with yogurt.
Combine cracker crumbs, thyme, marjoram, and curry.
Roll the chicken strips in the crumbs.
Place the chicken in a single layer on a cake rack set in a baking pan.
Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or until the crumbs are lightly browned and crisp.

Variations

Use different herbs and spices in the coating mixture for a different flavor profile.
Substitute the crackers with breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Add grated Parmesan cheese to the coating mixture for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to trim the fat from the chicken breasts before cutting them into strips.

- Coating the chicken in yogurt helps to keep the meat moist and tender.

- Crushing the crackers finely will help to create a crispy coating on the chicken fingers.

- Baking the chicken on a cake rack allows for even cooking and helps to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Jordanian Chicken Fingers with a side of rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They can also be served as an appetizer with a dipping sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken fingers in the oven helps to create a crispy coating without the need for frying. Using a cake rack allows for even cooking and helps to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Greek yogurt can be used instead of plain yogurt for a tangier flavor.

- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried herbs for a more intense flavor.

- Panko breadcrumbs can be used instead of crackers for a lighter and crispier coating.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken fingers can be coated in the yogurt and herb mixture ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This can help to save time when preparing a meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Jordanian Chicken Fingers on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. They can also be served in individual baskets or on skewers for a fun and creative twist.

Pairing Recommendations

Jordanian Chicken Fingers pair well with a variety of side dishes, such as rice pilaf, couscous, or roasted potatoes. They also go well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Jordanian Chicken Fingers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken fingers on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Jordanian Chicken Fingers contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Jordanian Chicken Fingers contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Jordanian Chicken Fingers contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Jordanian Chicken Fingers contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Jordanian Chicken Fingers are a good source of vitamin B12, niacin, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and gluten (crackers). It may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Jordanian Chicken Fingers are a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for a meal.

Summary

Jordanian Chicken Fingers are a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a crispy coating of yogurt and herbs, these chicken fingers are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve them as a main course or appetizer for a meal that is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my dear friend, Amira, in Jordan. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping on hot tea and chatting about our favorite recipes. Amira was known for her delicious Middle Eastern dishes, and I was always eager to learn from her.

As we chatted, Amira suddenly got up and rummaged through her collection of cookbooks. She pulled out a weathered, stained piece of paper and handed it to me with a mischievous grin. "This is my secret recipe for Jordanian Chicken Fingers," she said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I think you'll love it."

I looked down at the paper, the ink slightly smudged from years of use. The ingredients were simple - chicken breasts, garlic, lemon juice, and a blend of Middle Eastern spices. The instructions were straightforward, but I could tell there was something special about this recipe. Amira had a way of infusing her dishes with love and tradition, and I knew that this recipe was no exception.

I decided to try my hand at making the Jordanian Chicken Fingers the next day. I gathered the ingredients, careful to select the freshest produce and spices. The chicken breasts were tender and juicy, the garlic aromatic, and the lemon juice tangy and bright. I followed the instructions to the letter, marinating the chicken in the spice blend and letting it rest for hours to soak up all the flavors.

As the chicken cooked in the oven, the aroma wafted through my kitchen, filling the air with a tantalizing scent. I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish. When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the golden-brown chicken fingers out of the oven and plated them with a side of creamy tahini sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

I took my first bite, and my taste buds exploded with a burst of flavor. The chicken was tender and flavorful, the spices perfectly balanced, and the tahini sauce added a creamy richness that complemented the dish perfectly. I closed my eyes and savored each bite, transported back to Amira's kitchen in Jordan.

From that moment on, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, each time receiving rave reviews from friends and loved ones. The Jordanian Chicken Fingers became my signature dish, a symbol of my friendship with Amira and a reminder of the beauty of sharing food and stories with those we love.

As the years passed and I continued to perfect the recipe, I always thought back to that fateful day in Amira's kitchen. I could still hear her laughter, see the twinkle in her eyes, and feel the warmth of her friendship. She had given me more than just a recipe that day - she had given me a taste of her culture, her traditions, and her heart.

And so, whenever I make Jordanian Chicken Fingers, I do so with a grateful heart and a joyful spirit. Each bite is a tribute to Amira, to our friendship, and to the power of sharing food and stories with those we hold dear. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always bring a smile to my face, a reminder of the magic that can happen when we open our hearts and our kitchens to others.