The Ultimate Recipe for Perfectly Crispy Chicken Strips

Crispy chicken strips are a universally loved dish, offering a delightful crunch on the outside with juicy, tender chicken on the inside. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, party snack, or quick lunch, this recipe guarantees perfection every time. With a simple combination of pantry staples and a few cooking tricks, you can achieve restaurant-quality chicken strips right at home.

Ingredients

  • 500g chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crispiness)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice lovers)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Begin by preparing the chicken strips. Cut the chicken breasts into evenly sized strips to ensure consistent cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a mixing bowl, pour the buttermilk and add half a teaspoon of salt and a pinch of paprika. Stir well and submerge the chicken strips in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to tenderize and infuse flavor.
  3. Prepare three separate bowls for coating. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour mixed with half a teaspoon each of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs with a tablespoon of water. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with oregano, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice.
  4. Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dip each strip first into the flour mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Shake off any excess flour.
  5. Next, dip the floured chicken strip into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully covered. Finally, coat it in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick. Repeat the process for all strips.
  6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it. If it sizzles and turns golden brown within seconds, the oil is ready.
  7. Carefully place a few chicken strips into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
  8. Once cooked, remove the chicken strips using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  9. Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken strips.
  10. Serve the crispy chicken strips immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo.

Pro Tip: To make them extra crispy, double-dip the chicken in the flour and egg mixture before coating it in breadcrumbs. For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken strips in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Enjoy these irresistible crispy chicken strips as a standalone snack or pair them with fries and a refreshing beverage for the ultimate treat!

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