15 Mouthwatering Meals You Can Make With Chicken Strips (That Aren’t Just Dipping in Sauce!)

Chicken strips are sitting in your freezer right now, aren’t they? Those convenient, kid-friendly protein powerhouses that we all secretly love. But if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably fallen into a rut of serving them the same way every single time – with some fries and a puddle of ranch dressing

Well, my friend, it’s time to break out of that boring chicken strip prison! I’ve gathered 15 creative and delicious ways to transform those humble chicken tenders into meals that’ll make your family think you’ve suddenly hired a private chef.

Why Chicken Strips Deserve More Respect

Before we dive into all the yummy possibilities. let’s appreciate why chicken strips are such a fantastic ingredient to keep on hand

• They’re already cooked (or nearly cooked), saving precious time
• Kids and adults both enjoy them
• They’re portion-controlled
• They work with practically any flavor profile
• They stay good in the freezer for months

As a busy parent who values both convenience AND tasty meals, I’ve come to rely on chicken strips as my secret weapon for quick dinners that don’t feel like I’ve given up.

Globally Inspired Chicken Strip Creations

Let’s start our journey around the world with these internationally-inspired chicken strip meals

1. Chicken Strip Tacos

These are a regular at our house because they’re so easy! Just warm corn or flour tortillas and fill with:

• Chopped chicken strips
• Shredded lettuce
• Pico de gallo
• Guacamole or Mexican crema
• A squeeze of lime

The crispy texture of the chicken strips adds a wonderful contrast to the soft tortilla and fresh veggies. My kids actually ask for these instead of takeout tacos!

2. Asian Chicken Bowls

Transform chicken strips into a tasty Asian-inspired bowl that’s packed with nutrition:

1. Cook quinoa or brown rice
2. Sauté veggies like carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers
3. Chop chicken strips into bite-sized pieces
4. Toss everything in soy sauce dressing
5. Garnish with chopped peanuts, green onions, and sesame seeds

I love making these on busy weeknights because they’re so colorful and satisfying. The umami sauce makes the chicken strips taste like they were marinated for hours!

3. Buffalo Chicken Wraps

For those who love a little heat, these wraps are perfect:

• Toss chicken strips in buffalo sauce
• Wrap in soft tortillas with crunchy lettuce and tomatoes
• Add blue cheese or ranch dressing
• Roll up and enjoy!

The cool lettuce balances the spicy buffalo sauce perfectly. I often make these for lunch when I’m working from home.

Comfort Food Classics With a Chicken Strip Twist

Sometimes you just need some good old-fashioned comfort food. Here’s how chicken strips can help:

4. Chicken Strip Sandwiches

Nothing beats a crispy chicken sandwich for lunch or dinner:

1. Toast your favorite buns
2. Layer with chicken strips, lettuce, and tomato
3. Add mayo, mustard, or BBQ sauce
4. For extra decadence, throw on some bacon

I like to cut my chicken strips lengthwise so they fit better on the bun. Pro tip: a little honey mixed into your mayo takes these sandwiches to the next level!

5. Chicken Parmesan Slider Bake

This is a crowd-pleaser for parties or family dinners:

1. Slice dinner rolls in half horizontally (keeping them connected)
2. Place bottom half in baking dish
3. Layer with marinara, chicken strips, and mozzarella
4. Add top half of rolls
5. Brush with garlic butter
6. Bake until golden and bubbling

These are SO good for game day! The contrast between the soft rolls and crispy chicken is irresistible.

6. Chicken Strip Casserole

Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food:

• Mix chicken strips with egg noodles
• Add frozen mixed vegetables
• Stir in a creamy sauce (milk, broth, and flour)
• Top with cheese
• Bake until bubbly and golden

This is my go-to dish when I need to feed a crowd or want leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s like a hug in a casserole dish!

Creative Flatbreads and Pizzas

Chicken strips make amazing pizza toppings! Here are some ways to use them:

7. Chicken Strip Flatbread Pizza

Ditch takeout and make pizza at home:

1. Use naan or flatbread as your crust
2. Spread with sauce of your choice
3. Arrange chicken strips on top
4. Add veggies like bell peppers, red onion, and olives
5. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese
6. Bake until crispy

My kids love customizing their own personal flatbread pizzas. It’s a fun activity for Friday nights!

8. Chicken Parmesan Pizza

This fusion dish combines two favorites:

• Use pizza dough or a pre-made crust
• Spread with marinara sauce
• Arrange sliced chicken strips
• Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan
• Add Italian herbs
• Bake until golden and bubbly

The first time I made this, my husband literally said “This is the best pizza I’ve ever had!” High praise indeed!

9. Santa Fe Chicken Pizza Pie

Give your pizza a southwestern twist:

1. Slather your crust with taco sauce
2. Top with black beans and green chiles
3. Add chicken strips
4. Sprinkle with Mexican cheese blend
5. After baking, add fresh cilantro

This is such a fun twist on traditional pizza night. The combination of flavors is incredible!

Fresh and Healthy Options

Chicken strips can totally be part of a healthy meal! Here are some lighter options:

10. Crispy Asian Chicken Salad

This refreshing salad is perfect for lunch or a light dinner:

• Mix salad greens with shredded cabbage
• Add mandarin oranges and sliced almonds
• Arrange chicken strips on top
• Drizzle with Asian sesame dressing

I love the contrast between the crunchy chicken and the fresh vegetables. It’s satisfying without being heavy.

11. Sticky Chicken Fingers Salad

For a perfect balance of fresh and protein:

1. Toss romaine lettuce with shredded carrots
2. Add chicken strips
3. Top with grated cheese and dried cranberries
4. Drizzle with your favorite dressing

This is my go-to lunch when I want something light but filling. The sweet cranberries pair surprisingly well with the savory chicken!

Fun Party Foods

Having people over? Chicken strips can be transformed into impressive appetizers:

12. Buffalo Chicken Bird Dogs

These look like hot dogs but taste way better:

• Place chicken strips in hot dog buns
• Drizzle with buffalo sauce and ranch
• Sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles and green onions

These are always the first thing to disappear at parties! People love the playful presentation.

13. Chicken Tempura Rolls

Impress guests with homemade sushi:

1. Cook sushi rice according to package
2. Lay out on a bamboo mat with nori
3. Add sliced chicken strips and vegetables
4. Roll tightly and slice

This might sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. And it’s SO impressive when you serve it to guests!

Quick Weeknight Solutions

These last few ideas are perfect for those crazy busy weeknights:

14. Chicken Tenders Snack Wraps

These are perfect for lunch boxes or quick dinners:

• Warm a small tortilla
• Add a chicken strip
• Top with cheese and BBQ sauce
• Roll up tightly

My kids request these in their lunches all the time. They’re also great for eating on the go!

15. Buffalo Chicken Kabobs

Thread these simple kabobs for a fun presentation:

1. Alternate chicken strips with celery and carrot sticks
2. Brush with buffalo sauce
3. Serve with blue cheese dipping sauce

These are so fun to eat and feel much fancier than just serving chicken strips on a plate!

Tips for Cooking Chicken Strips

To get the best results when using chicken strips, keep these tips in mind:

• For maximum crispiness, bake or air fry rather than microwaving
• When baking, use a wire rack on your sheet pan so the strips get crispy all over
• Always flip halfway through cooking for even browning
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness

Sauces Worth Trying

Don’t forget about dipping sauces! Having a variety can make even simple chicken strips feel special:

• Ranch (the classic!)
• Barbecue
• Buffalo
• Honey mustard
• Sweet chili
• Teriyaki
• Peanut sauce

I like to set up a little sauce bar when serving chicken strips. It’s fun for everyone to mix and match!

Final Thoughts

See? Those humble chicken strips are WAY more versatile than you might have thought! From global cuisine to comfort food classics, they can be transformed into countless delicious meals.

Next time you’re staring at that bag of chicken strips in your freezer and thinking “not again,” I hope you’ll remember some of these ideas and get creative! Your family will think you’ve suddenly become a culinary genius, and only we’ll know your secret weapon.

What’s your favorite way to use chicken strips? I’m always looking for new ideas to add to my repertoire. Leave a comment below with your go-to chicken strip recipe!

This post was originally published on September 12, 2025 and has been updated with new recipes and photos.