Crispy Chicken Strips are the ultimate comfort food – golden, crunchy on the outside, and tender and juicy on the inside. This recipe combines seasoned breading with a quick frying method to create the perfect chicken strip every time. Ideal for a family dinner, party appetizer, or a simple snack, these crispy strips are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken breast (cut into strips)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken:
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips, about 1-inch wide. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the breading stick better.
- Set up the breading station:
- In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- In a third shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and cornmeal.
- Coat the chicken:
- Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off the excess.
- Next, dip the coated chicken strip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer.
- Fry the chicken:
- Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of bread dropped into the oil sizzles immediately.
- Fry the chicken strips in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Serve the crispy chicken strips hot with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. Pair them with a side of fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips:
- For an even crunchier texture, double-dip the chicken: coat it in the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then repeat the process.
- If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the chicken strips at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk for a few hours before breading.
These Crispy Chicken Strips are sure to become a family favorite!