Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Chicken Strips are a favorite for many people. They are delicious, easy to make, and perfect for a quick meal or snack. Whether you serve them for a family dinner, game day, or just a tasty treat, these chicken strips never disappoint. Their golden, crunchy coating and tender chicken inside make them a hit with both kids and adults.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Strips
Making Crispy Chicken Strips at home is simple and fun. Here is what you need and how to do it.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
- In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken strip into the egg mixture, making sure it’s coated evenly.
- Finally, coat the chicken strip with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Repeat the process with the remaining chicken strips.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the chicken strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use tongs to transfer the cooked chicken strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the crispy chicken strips hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Strips
Crispy Chicken Strips are great when served hot. You can place them on a platter and offer different dipping sauces nearby. Some popular sauces include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or hot sauce. Pair them with crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Crispy Chicken Strips
If you have leftovers, let the chicken strips cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for about 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Tips to Make Crispy Chicken Strips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before breading.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. This helps achieve a nice crispy coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and make the strips soggy.
Variation
You can make these chicken strips spicy by adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Or, for a healthier option, try baking the breaded chicken strips in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes instead of frying them.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier strip. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized strips.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken strips?
A: Yes, you can freeze them before frying. Just bread them and lay them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer.
Q: What sauces go well with Crispy Chicken Strips?
A: Popular choices include barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, and sweet and sour sauce. You can choose based on your taste!
