CRISPY CHICKEN STRIPS – Page 2

How to Make Crispy Chicken Strips

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a shallow bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
Add the chicken strips to the bowl and make sure they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour (this step helps tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor).

2. Prepare the Coating:

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, panko breadcrumbs, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. This will be used to help the coating stick to the chicken.

3. Coat the Chicken:

Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk marinade and let any excess liquid drip off.
First, dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Then, dredge it in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Repeat this process with all the chicken strips.

4. Fry the Chicken:

Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
Carefully place the chicken strips in the skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the breading is golden brown and crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
If necessary, work in batches, adding more oil as needed between batches.

5. Drain and Serve:

Once the chicken strips are golden and crispy, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, or enjoy them as part of a larger meal.

Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken Strips

Use Buttermilk for Tender Chicken: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, ensuring the strips stay juicy and moist inside.
Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness: For an extra-crunchy coating, you can double-dip the chicken—once in the egg and then again in the panko mixture before frying.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches, if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken strips to steam rather than crisp up, which will affect the texture.
Use a Thermometer: If you’re worried about cooking the chicken all the way through, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Get Creative with Dips: These crispy chicken strips are the perfect base for a variety of dipping sauces. Try classic favorites like ranch or BBQ sauce, or go for something different like spicy sriracha mayo, sweet chili sauce, or garlic aioli.

Ways to Serve Crispy Chicken Strips

As a Main Dish: Serve the chicken strips alongside your favorite sides, such as fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. You can also pair them with mac and cheese or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.
In a Sandwich or Wrap: Place the crispy chicken strips in a soft bun or tortilla, add your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a delicious sandwich or wrap. Try a crispy chicken wrap with lettuce, tomato, and ranch dressing, or serve the strips on a toasted bun with pickles and slaw.
For Kids’ Meals: Crispy chicken strips are a hit with kids, and they’re easy to serve with a side of ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for dipping.
As a Salad Topping: Slice the chicken strips and place them on top of a salad for added protein. Pair with a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing.
In a Party Platter: These crispy chicken strips are perfect for parties or gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Chicken Strips

These crispy chicken strips are the epitome of comfort food: juicy, flavorful chicken wrapped in a crunchy, golden coating. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a game day snack, or as a fun dish for the kids, they’ll be a hit every time. The combination of buttermilk marinade, seasoned flour, and panko breadcrumbs creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

With this recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-quality chicken strips at home, made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. You can even adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes, whether you want them spicy, herby, or more classic.

Conclusion

Crispy chicken strips are a timeless favorite that never disappoints. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, a party snack, or a fun dinner for the whole family, these crispy chicken strips will satisfy every craving. With their golden-brown coating and juicy, tender chicken inside, they’re the perfect balance of crispy and flavorful. So the next time you’re in the mood for a crunchy treat, give these crispy chicken strips a try—you won’t be able to stop at just one!

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