Whenever possible, choose fresh oregano over the dried form of the herb since it is superior in flavor. The leaves of fresh oregano should look fresh and be a vibrant green in color, while the stems should be firm. They should be free from dark spots or yellowing.
Even through dried herbs and spices like oregano are widely available in supermarkets, you may want to explore the local spice stores in your area. Oftentimes, these stores feature an expansive selection of dried herbs and spices that are of superior quality and freshness compared to those offered in regular markets. Just like with other dried herbs, when purchasing dried oregano, try to buy that which has been organically grown since this will give you more assurance that it has not been irradiated.
Fresh oregano should be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel. It may also be frozen, either whole or chopped, in airtight containers. Alternatively, you can freeze the oregano in ice cube trays covered with either water or stock that can be added when preparing soups or stews. Dried oregano should be kept in a tightly sealed glass container in a cool, dark and dry place where it will keep fresh for about six months.
Oven Chicken Sticks
Copyright 2012 Christine's Pantry. All rights reserved.
Ingredients:
4 boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1/2 inch strips
1 cup Italian bread crumbs
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
salt and pepper, to taste
extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
In a dish, combine bread crumbs, basil, oregano, garlic powder and onion powder. Brush chicken strips with olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge chicken strips in the bread crumb mixture.
Place chicken on lightly greased sheet pan, single layer. Bake 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through, and no longer pink in center, turning once. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
You might also like these recipes:
http://www.christinespantry.com/2011/09/garlic-herb-mashed-potatoes.html http://www.christinespantry.com/2011/09/chicken-veggie-rice.html
I love the smell of oregano, often use it for pasta but have never did it for chicken. I will keep in mind to use the fresh one.
ReplyDeleteI love the taste of fresh oregano. It's definitly something you should try if you're used to the dried kind. Thanks for reminding me how much I love it.
ReplyDeleteThat looks yum , Christine ! I love adding different herbs in my dishes , too !
ReplyDeleteI love chicken and this healthier way of cooking sounds great!
ReplyDeleteWay better than fast food.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree that fresh oregano is the way to go. Fresh herbs in general are always better. Great tip. The chicken looks delicious.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds good to me and I have oregano in the garden :)) Diane
ReplyDeleteThese will be really good with a dipping sauce. Thanks for sharing
ReplyDeleteMmm these sound simple & delicious! Perfect for a week night meal. Yum!
ReplyDeleteI like that you used basil! It sounds simple and delicious.
ReplyDeleteI've been using the dried oregano for years, it's time to give the fresh a try. I will also have to make these chicken sticks for Gabbi, she's hooked on the Mickey D's nuggets (Ew)!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sandra! Enjoy!
DeleteNothing better than oven fried chicken. ;.)
ReplyDeleteThese look like a superior, healthier version of the chicken fingers I adored as a child. Fabulous!
ReplyDeleteYum! It sounds delish! I would think about adding some parmesan and maybe some sesame seeds to the bread crumbs.
ReplyDelete