chicken strips

Total Time: 40 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor—these chicken strips are the perfect mix of tender and crunchy, making every bite irresistibly delicious!
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One of the best things about homemade chicken strips is the ability to customize them to your liking. Whether you prefer a classic seasoned breadcrumb coating or a spicy kick with some added cayenne pepper, the choice is yours. You can also experiment with different types of coatings like crushed cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, or even panko breadcrumbs for a unique twist!

When it comes to the dipping sauces, the options are endless. Tangy barbecue sauce, sweet honey mustard, or creamy ranch – take your pick! Making your own sauces from scratch can take your chicken strips to the next level. Whip up a quick sriracha mayo by mixing mayonnaise with a splash of sriracha sauce, or a zesty buffalo sauce with hot sauce, butter, and a hint of garlic.

If you’re feeling extra creative, try turning your chicken strips into a full meal. Serve them on a bed of crispy fries for a classic chicken strip basket feel, or slice them up and toss them in a vibrant salad for a lighter option. You can even chop them up and add them to a cheesy pasta bake for a comforting and hearty dish the whole family will love.

No matter how you choose to enjoy them, homemade chicken strips are sure to be a hit at any gathering. So, roll up your sleeves, get your hands messy, and whip up a batch of these tasty treats for a meal that’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

Key Ingredients in Chicken Strips

Creating the perfect batch of homemade chicken strips relies on the right combination of ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in bringing out the flavor, texture, and crispiness you crave. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need:

  • Chicken breast, cut into strips
    This is the star of the show! Chicken breast is lean, tender, and easy to cut into strips, making it perfect for frying. It serves as the juicy, protein-packed base for your crispy coating.
  • All-purpose flour
    Flour acts as the foundation for the coating. It helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and gives the strips a light, crispy crust when fried.
  • Salt
    Salt is a must to enhance the flavors of the chicken and the coating. It brings out the natural taste of the meat and balances the seasoning.
  • Black pepper
    This adds a subtle heat and depth to the chicken strips, complementing the other spices and creating a well-rounded flavor.
  • Garlic powder
    Garlic powder imparts a savory, aromatic flavor to the coating, giving the chicken strips a mouthwatering scent and taste.
  • Onion powder
    Onion powder adds a mild, sweet flavor that works in harmony with the garlic powder, rounding out the seasoning and giving the strips a savory boost.
  • Paprika
    Paprika gives your chicken strips a beautiful color and a hint of smoky sweetness. It’s a flavor-enhancer that’s not too overpowering but definitely noticeable.
  • Cayenne pepper
    For those who like a little heat, cayenne pepper is the secret ingredient that adds a spicy kick to the coating without overwhelming the dish.
  • Eggs
    Eggs help bind the flour and breadcrumbs to the chicken, creating a golden, crispy exterior. They also contribute to the tenderness of the chicken inside.
  • Milk
    Milk adds moisture to the egg wash, helping the breadcrumbs stick better while also keeping the chicken tender during the frying process.
  • Breadcrumbs
    The breadcrumbs create the crispy, crunchy exterior that everyone loves. You can use regular, panko, or even seasoned breadcrumbs depending on the texture and flavor you want to achieve.
  • Vegetable oil for frying
    Vegetable oil ensures your chicken strips fry up golden and crisp. It provides the perfect medium for cooking the chicken without it sticking to the pan.

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in ensuring your chicken strips come out perfectly crispy, flavorful, and tender every time!

How to Make Chicken Strips

  • STEP 1: Start by placing a large, clean cutting board on a flat surface.
  • STEP 2: Take the chicken breasts and carefully cut them into strips, about 1 inch wide, ensuring all pieces are relatively even in size.
  • STEP 3: Once the chicken is cut, set it aside and prepare the breading mixture.
  • STEP 4: In a medium bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
  • STEP 5: Season the flour by adding the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  • STEP 6: Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the spices throughout the flour.
  • STEP 7: In a separate bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them gently with a fork or whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
  • STEP 8: Pour the 1/4 cup of milk into the beaten eggs and whisk them together until smooth.
  • STEP 9: In a third shallow bowl, add the breadcrumbs and spread them out evenly.
  • STEP 10: Take each chicken strip and first dip it into the seasoned flour, coating it completely.
  • STEP 11: Gently shake off any excess flour before dipping the chicken strip into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring it’s fully submerged.
  • STEP 12: Allow any extra egg mixture to drip off, then transfer the chicken strip into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat both sides evenly.
  • STEP 13: Once all the chicken strips are breaded, place them on a plate or tray, making sure they don’t overlap.
  • STEP 14: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to get hot but not smoking.
  • STEP 15: Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded in the pan.
  • STEP 16: Fry the chicken strips for 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • STEP 17: Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip the chicken strips over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
  • STEP 18: Once both sides are crispy and golden, check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F using a meat thermometer.
  • STEP 19: If the chicken strips are fully cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  • STEP 20: Allow the chicken strips to rest for a minute or two before serving to ensure they remain crispy.
  • STEP 21: Serve the chicken strips hot with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Strips

Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or crunchy croutons for extra flavor and texture. It’s like taking your favorite crispy chicken and turning it into a vibrant, feel-good meal!

Craving something indulgent? Layer crispy chicken strips over hot, golden fries and drizzle with your favorite sauce. You could go classic perfect tangy crunch. It’s like a mini get a and trust me of cheese sauce and a sprinkle of green cheese.

For a lighter, fresh twist best!

Chicken Strip Salad treat. This is comfort food at its best! Toss those crispy chicken strips on top of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of creamy ranch or balsamic vinaigrette. The contrast of the crunchy chicken with the cool veggies is the kind of combo that makes you feel good with every bite.

For a fun, night-inspired meal, slice the chicken and stuff them into soft flour tortillas. Add a handful of shredded lettuce, drizzle of sour cream, a sprinkle of avocado slices, and a sprinkle of, crunchy chicken with the cool. These make for the perfect handheld or dinner option, packed with flavor and texture in every bite.

Wrap those golden strips in a soft flour tortilla, and load it up with your favorite toppings—think shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, avocado, and a drizzle of tangy sauce like chipotle mayo or honey mustard. Wrap it up tight, and you’ve got yourself a tasty handheld meal that’s perfect for lunch or a casual dinner!

How to Store Chicken Strips

Once you’ve made a delicious batch of homemade chicken strips, you might find yourself with leftovers or wanting to prepare them ahead of time for a quick meal option. Proper storage is key to maintaining their freshness and flavor.

One way to store chicken strips is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow the leftover strips to cool completely before transferring them to the container. Make sure to separate any layers with parchment paper or foil to prevent them from sticking together. Stored this way, chicken strips can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to store your chicken strips for a longer period, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the cooled strips on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Properly frozen chicken strips can last for up to 2-3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored chicken strips, whether refrigerated or frozen, it’s best to reheat them in the oven for a crispy texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F, place the strips on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the crispy coating and juicy interior, giving you a delicious meal every time.

Conclusion

Ah, the joy of crispy, homemade chicken strips! This versatile dish offers endless possibilities for customization, from the coating to the dipping sauces and serving suggestions. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or enjoy a spicy twist, these chicken strips are sure to please any palate.

By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create a batch of golden, crunchy chicken strips that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a quick meal for the family, or simply craving a comforting dish, homemade chicken strips are a delicious and satisfying choice.

Remember, the key to success lies in choosing quality ingredients and taking your time to coat the chicken strips evenly. With a little effort and a lot of love, you’ll have a plate of crispy goodness that will have everyone coming back for more.

So, go ahead and print out this recipe for future reference, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, feedback, or simply want to share your experience making these tasty chicken strips. Your kitchen adventures await – happy cooking!

chicken strips

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 40 mins
Calories: 350

Description

Crispy, golden-brown chicken strips with a tender, juicy inside—each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory spices and satisfying crunch. Perfectly paired with your favorite dipping sauces for a simple yet irresistible treat!

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Start by placing a large, clean cutting board on a flat surface.
  2. Take the chicken breasts and carefully cut them into strips, about 1 inch wide, ensuring all pieces are relatively even in size.
  3. Once the chicken is cut, set it aside and prepare the breading mixture.
  4. In a medium bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
  5. Season the flour by adding the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  6. Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the spices throughout the flour.
  7. In a separate bowl, crack the two eggs and beat them gently with a fork or whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
  8. Pour the 1/4 cup of milk into the beaten eggs and whisk them together until smooth.
  9. In a third shallow bowl, add the breadcrumbs and spread them out evenly.
  10. Take each chicken strip and first dip it into the seasoned flour, coating it completely.
  11. Gently shake off any excess flour before dipping the chicken strip into the egg and milk mixture, ensuring it's fully submerged.
  12. Allow any extra egg mixture to drip off, then transfer the chicken strip into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat both sides evenly.
  13. Once all the chicken strips are breaded, place them on a plate or tray, making sure they don’t overlap.
  14. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, allowing it to get hot but not smoking.
  15. Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil, ensuring they are not overcrowded in the pan.
  16. Fry the chicken strips for 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy.
  17. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip the chicken strips over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
  18. Once both sides are crispy and golden, check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F using a meat thermometer.
  19. If the chicken strips are fully cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
  20. Allow the chicken strips to rest for a minute or two before serving to ensure they remain crispy.
  21. Serve the chicken strips hot with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Note

  • Make sure the chicken strips are cut into even pieces for consistent cooking.
  • For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of bread in; it should sizzle immediately.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain even frying.
  • For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some hot sauce to the egg mixture.
Keywords: chicken strips recipe, crispy chicken strips, homemade chicken strips, easy chicken strips, baked chicken strips

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Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I ensure the chicken strips are cooked properly?

To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can use this breading method for other cuts of chicken or even other meats like pork or fish.

Can I bake the chicken strips instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken strips in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative to frying.

How can I make the chicken strips gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

How should I store any leftover chicken strips?

If you have any leftover chicken strips, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

Maria Bennet

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I’m Maria Bennet! A self-taught home cook and food lover with a passion for creating simple, delicious recipes that bring people together

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