👨‍🍳 Crispy Fried Chicken Strips Recipe – Quick & Tasty

by | Jul 1, 2024 | Chicken Recipes, Fried Chicken Recipes

Ever wanted to make those crispy fried chicken strips at home? You can do it without a big cost or lots of time in the kitchen.

Enjoy the great taste of homemade fried chicken tenders. They’re juicy inside and crispy outside. This recipe is perfect for dinner or a fast party snack. And guess what? It takes less than 30 minutes to make!

This recipe has a huge 90% success rate because it’s so good. It’s created by Ellie Holland from the Tasty Team. It serves up to five people. These chicken fingers are crispy and tasty, and they go amazingly with chips and your favorite dip.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Average preparation and cooking time for crispy fried chicken strips: 30 minutes.
  • Nutritional value for one serving: 290kcal, 32g protein, 22g carbohydrates.
  • Essential ingredients include boneless chicken, garlic powder, paprika, and panko bread crumbs.
  • Utilize a 12″ cast iron skillet, recommended by Lodge, for optimal frying results.
  • Serving size: 5 people with 8 chicken strips per recipe.
  • Best served with chips and a preferred dipping sauce like homemade ranch.
  • Leftovers can be stored for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Ingredients for Crispy Fried Chicken Strips

To make perfect crispy fried chicken strips, pick the right ingredients. You might be making a quick fried chicken, simple chicken tenders, or a crispy chicken fingers recipe. The secret is in each ingredient you use.

Chicken Strips

For chicken strips, start with 2 pounds of tenderloins or 1 1/2 pounds of boneless chicken. Make sure the pieces are fat-free and cut the same for even cooking. You can also use 2 large chicken breasts for an easy chicken tenders recipe.

Seasoning

A good seasoning is key for a tasty chicken recipe. Try this mix to spice up your chicken strips:

  • 1 tablespoon of Montreal Steak Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon of fresh coarse ground black pepper
  • Optional: 3/4 teaspoon of MSG
  • 1/2 teaspoon each of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons of seasoned salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper

Mix the spices well before you put them on the chicken strips.

Breading

Getting the breading right makes your chicken fingers crispy. Here’s how:

Ingredients Measurement
All-purpose flour 1.5 cups
All-purpose flour (additional) 2 cups
Breadcrumbs 1/3 cup
Buttermilk 1 cup
Egg 1
Vegetable oil for cooking 3-4 cups
Canola or peanut oil for frying 6-8 cups
Salted crisps, crushed 1 cup
Beer 1/2 cup

First, soak the chicken strips in buttermilk for tenderness. Then, coat them with the breading. Make sure your oil is 350°F to 375°F for the best frying. Cook the strips until they’re golden, which usually takes 8-15 minutes. Let them cool for 5 minutes before you enjoy your crispy chicken.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making top-notch fried chicken strips at home is both easy and fun. Focus on that ideal crunchy layer. Your crunchy chicken strips will turn out just right with our guide.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by picking fresh chicken tenders or big, boneless, skinless breasts. Aim for about 1 1/2 to 2 pounds. Cut them into strips of the same size for even cooking. It’s vital they’re just right to soak up the seasonings and batter.

Coating the Chicken

Mix up flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for coating. Dip each strip into this mix evenly. For extra taste and crunch, you might want to dip them in beer batter. Then, give another coating of the seasoned flour mix. This extra step makes them super crispy.

Frying the Chicken

Get 2 inches of oil hot in your pot or deep skillet to 365-375 degrees F. Cook the strips in small batches, maybe 5 at a time. This way, they all cook evenly. Let each batch fry for about 8-10 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through.

After frying, lay the strips on paper towels. This helps absorb any extra oil. Serve right away with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch. It’ll really top off your tasty, crunchy chicken strips. For a quick overview, each serving includes 253 calories, 29g of carbs, 24g protein, and 4g fat. They’re a mouthwatering meal.

  1. Recommended oil temperature: 365-375 degrees F
  2. Approximate cooking time per batch: 8-10 minutes
  3. Nutritional value per serving (3 tenders): 253 calories, 29g of carbohydrates, 24g of protein, 4g of fat

Stick to these easy steps for the crispiest, tastiest chicken strips. Everyone will be asking for more.

Choosing the Best Chicken for Your Recipe

Getting the right chicken is key for top-notch homemade fried chicken tenders. You can pick boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Each choice affects the taste and texture a lot. Chicken strips or tenderloins are best for a recipe like this. They cook evenly and stay juicy inside.

Cutting the chicken into equal pieces is very important. This makes sure everything cooks the same. It stays tender and doesn’t get too dry. If you want a mix of lean and taste, chicken breasts in strips are a great pick.

When picking chicken, here’s what to consider:

Chicken Type Advantages Disadvantages
Breasts Lean, uniform shape, easy to cut into strips Can dry out if overcooked
Thighs Rich flavor, stays moist Irregular shape, more effort to cut
Tenderloins Consistent size, naturally tender Can be more expensive

Making great homemade chicken tenders means using buttermilk to marinate them. This step is in the recipe for a reason. It adds flavor and helps get that crispy outside. The type of chicken and the ingredients you choose are both key to making the best crispy chicken fingers.

Top Tips for Achieving Crispy Chicken Strips

Perfecting crispy chicken strips involves focusing on key details. Use these essential tips for great results every time you make them at home.

crispy chicken fingers recipe

Correct Oil Temperature

To get your chicken strips golden and crispy, the oil has to be just right. Aim for an oil temperature of 365-375 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat ensures a perfect crust without the risk of burning. Remember to use a thermometer to keep an eye on the oil’s temperature.

Seasoning Techniques

Finding the right balance in seasoning is crucial. For extra flavor, mix some sesame seeds and za’atar with panko breadcrumbs. In your batter, include Worcestershire sauce and a mix of spices like paprika, pepper, and garlic. After breading, let the chicken sit for 15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and the coating stick better.

Resting the Chicken

After breading, let your chicken strips rest for 15 minutes. This step is key for a crunchy outside. You can also keep them warm in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit until it’s time to eat. This will help preserve their crispiness.

Use these expert tips to make your fried chicken strips a success. They’ll turn out crispy and tasty for the whole family to enjoy.

Alternatives to Beer Batter

Looking for something other than beer batter for your chicken tenders? There are great alternatives. They’ll still give you a yummy, crunchy coating.

Milk and Egg Wash

A mix of milk and eggs is a classic swap for beer batter. It helps the breading stick better to the chicken while making it extra crispy. This approach is simple and needs only a few items:

  1. Beat one egg with a cup of milk in a bowl.
  2. Coat the chicken in this wash, then bread them.
  3. Then, fry at 170°C / 340°F like usual.

This milk and egg method is reliable for that perfect, golden-brown crust. It’s ideal for your easy chicken strips recipe.

Buttermilk Marinade

Want your chicken strips even more tender and tasty? Try a buttermilk soak. Buttermilk, with its slight acidity, tenderizes the chicken. It also adds a tangy flavor. Here’s how it’s done:

  • Mix two cups of buttermilk with seasonings in a bowl.
  • Soak the chicken in this mix and chill for at least an hour, or all night.
  • Take out the chicken, let it drip, then bread it.
  • Finally, fry until it’s crispy at 170°C / 340°F.

This method not only makes the chicken juicy but also rich in flavor. It’s great for changing up your chicken tenders or strips recipe.

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is key to making chicken extra tasty. It turns a simple chicken piece into a crispy delight. To make the perfect fried chicken, start with well-seasoned flour. We use a mix of all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, baking powder, paprika, and garlic.

delicious chicken fingers

Marinating the chicken for about 30 minutes is better than for a long time. This way, the chicken gets flavorful without needing to chill. Whether you choose tenders or breasts, this quick marination combined with seasoned flour gives a tasty result.

Seasoning’s power is clear if you compare:

Ingredient Amount
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Salt 1 tsp
Pepper 1/2 tsp
Baking powder 1 tsp
Paprika 1/2 tsp
Garlic powder 1/2 tsp

Using these amounts gives the chicken tenders a delicious flavor. It makes every bite of the chicken fingers tasty and enjoyable. Cook the strips in small batches for 5 to 7 minutes for perfect color. Keeping the oil at the right temperature stops them from being greasy.

Letting the breaded tenders sit on a wire rack before you cook them is also important. This step, along with possibly adding more flour, makes the crust crispy and tasteful. Doing things just right shows how much seasoning matters for delicious fried chicken.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or a beginner, good seasoning makes your fried chicken great. It becomes a loved dish in every home.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Enjoying delicious, crispy chicken fingers is easy. Just pair the best fried chicken with tasty sauces and sides. This lifts your meal to a whole new level.

Dipping Sauces

There are many dips that go well with crispy chicken fingers. Some favorites include:

  • Ketchup
  • BBQ sauce
  • Mustard
  • Ranch dressing
  • Honey mustard

Side Dishes

Choosing the right sides for your chicken fingers is important. It makes a balanced, satisfying meal. Here are some top picks:

  • Mashed potatoes: 43.3% recipes recommend this classic side
  • Potato salad: Featured in 56.7% recipes, it’s a hearty choice, especially for summer meals.
  • Mac and cheese: Appears in 16.7% of recipes; a comforting and creamy option.
  • Asian-spiced slaw: Found in 26.7% of recipes, adding a refreshing crunch and flavor.
  • Okra: A unique pairing in 6.7% of recipes.

There are also fast side dishes that take 20 minutes or less to make:

Side Dish Prep Time Nutritional Benefits
French fries 15 minutes Rich in carbs, fiber
Asparagus fries 15 minutes High in vitamins and antioxidants
Garlic bread 10 minutes Provides carbs, some protein, and fat
Broccoli Less than 10 minutes Loaded with antioxidants and vitamins

The best fried chicken strips are not just any meal. With the right sides and dips, they are a perfect meal for any occasion. Their flexibility means there’s a great combination for every taste or dietary restriction.

Step-by-Step Video Tutorial

Our quick fried chicken recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. The step-by-step video tutorial simplifies the process. This guide is especially helpful for making chicken strips. It shows you every step clearly.

quick fried chicken recipe

The video demonstrates the best way to handle the chicken strips from start to finish. It shows you how to cut them, season, bread, and fry them just right. Specifically, you’ll learn:

  • How to slice 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins to cook evenly.
  • The best marinating tips, like using buttermilk and garlic salt for great taste.
  • How to perfectly coat the chicken in all-purpose flour.
  • The importance of keeping the oil temperature at 375°F and cooking each batch for about 6 minutes.
  • How to store any leftovers in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for later.

This recipe has a 4.27 out of 5 rating from 26 votes. People love it for its simplicity and great taste. It’s worth watching the video to make these tasty, crispy chicken strips.

Here’s the breakdown of the nutrition in each serving:

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 389 kcal
Carbohydrates 21.3 g
Protein 30.2 g
Fat 19.7 g
Saturated Fat 3.7 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7 g
Monounsaturated Fat 11.4 g
Cholesterol 134.2 mg
Sodium 871 mg
Potassium 475.6 mg
Fiber 0.6 g
Sugar 10.4 g
Vitamin A 89.7 IU
Vitamin C 1.5 mg
Calcium 105 mg
Iron 2.8 mg

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Making top-notch fried chicken strips can be tough. But, knowing how to fix issues can make your dish better. From uneven cooking to breading separation, doing simple things right can lead to crunchy chicken strips every time.

  • Maintaining Oil Temperature: It’s key to keep the oil at a steady temperature. A tool like the ChefAlarm helps ensure the oil stays between 300 and 325°F. This avoids greasy or partly cooked chicken, giving you the best strips.
  • Proper Brining: Soak the chicken in seasoned buttermilk for 8 to 24 hours. It makes the meat soft and tasty. This is a must for delicious chicken strips.
  • Using the Right Equipment: Pick a sturdy cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven. They keep heat well and cook the chicken evenly. This is crucial for crispy strips.
  • Optimizing Chicken Thickness: Cut big chicken breasts into smaller strips. This speeds up cooking and makes frying even.
  • Correct Dipping and Coating: Making the breading stick well is vital. After brining, coat each strip in flour. Let them sit before frying to stop the breading from falling off.
Issue Solution
Uneven Cooking Maintain consistent oil temperature; use a heavy-bottomed skillet.
Breading Separation Let coated chicken strips rest before frying to adhere breading.
Greasy Chicken Keep oil between 300-325°F using a reliable thermometer.
Dry Meat Brine dark meat like thighs and legs for moist results; monitor internal temperature.

Focus on these cooking tips to solve common frying problems. Soon, you’ll be nailing the process of making the finest home-made fried chicken strips.

Healthier Alternatives

Want to eat chicken fingers without feeling guilty? You have healthier options than frying. They make your meal more nutritious. Yet, they keep that tasty crunch we all love in chicken tenders.

Baking Instead of Frying

Baking is a top pick over frying for making chicken tenders. You can bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get that crispy outside. You don’t need a lot of oil either.

The Healthy Chicken Strips recipe, first shared in February 2011, uses 1 pound of chicken tenders. It’s great for dinner and takes about 40 minutes. This is a quick and healthy choice.

When you bake them, you can enjoy them with different sauces. And it’s easy to prep these ahead for the week. Just put them in a sealed container and they can last three days in the fridge. If you freeze them, they’ll keep for up to two months.

Using Whole Grain Breading

Using whole grain breading makes chicken fingers healthier. It gives them extra nutrition. And keeps the crunch that everyone likes.

You can also make them gluten-free. Just switch to gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. This way, more people can enjoy them.

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Prepare your chicken tenders, or cut boneless skinless chicken breast into nuggets.
  3. Coat the chicken in a mixture of whole grain breadcrumbs and oil.
  4. Bake for about 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, until crispy and cooked through.

Here’s a quick look at how healthier and traditional versions compare:

Traditional Fried Chicken Tenders Healthier Baked Chicken Tenders
Quick frying in oil Baking at 400°F for 20 minutes
High-calorie content due to oil Lower calorie content
Harder to make gluten-free Easy gluten-free substitutions available
Typically higher in fat Lower fat content

Try these methods to enjoy a healthier and just as tasty version of chicken tenders.

Recipe Variations

Trying different spices and ingredients can make your chicken strips tasty and unique. You can add things like spicy peppers or fresh herbs. It’s a fun way to personalize your meal.

Spicy Chicken Strips

Want your meal to have a kick? Try adding cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or hot sauce to your chicken strips. Mix them into the breading or use them in a marinade. Make sure to fry at 375°F for the best crunch.

You can store your spicy fried chicken in an airtight container for three days. Or, freeze it for up to two months.

Herb-Infused Chicken Strips

Prefer a more fragrant taste? Use fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley in your strips. Chop them finely and add to the breading or marinade. You can also sprinkle them over the strips before frying.

Frying for 2 to 3 minutes on each side is enough. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F inside to be safe.

Here is a nutritional breakdown of these variations:

Nutrient Amount (per 3 tenders)
Calories 772 kcal
Carbohydrates 64 g
Protein 55 g
Fat 32 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Monounsaturated Fat 18 g
Cholesterol 140 mg
Sodium 1721 mg
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 7 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions when they want to make the best fried chicken strips. This section tackles common queries, helping you nail the recipe at home.

Q: What type of chicken should I use for the best fried chicken strips?

Go for chicken tenderloins. They cook evenly and end up juicy every time.

Q: How should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

Use buttermilk for marinating. Let the chicken soak for 4 to 24 hours.

Q: What oil temperature is recommended for frying?

Heat the oil to 375°F. This leads to a crispy outside and a moist inside for the meat.

Q: How much oil does the air fryer use compared to deep frying?

An air fryer uses 70 to 80 percent less oil, which is much healthier.

Q: How can I ensure my chicken strips stay crispy?

Don’t stack the pieces in the air fryer. Also, adding cornstarch to the breading helps make them extra crispy.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To keep them crispy, use the oven at 350°F. For chicken tenders, try 400°F for 10-15 minutes.

For a great fried chicken recipe, look at this air fryer guide.

Q: Can I bake my chicken strips instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them. Coat with breadcrumbs, then bake at 400°F until they’re golden and crispy.

Q: How should I store leftover chicken strips?

Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days.

Q: What nutritional values can I expect per serving?

Component Per Serving
Calories 351
Carbohydrates 35g
Protein 33g
Fat 7g
Saturated Fat 2g
Cholesterol 166mg
Sodium 1595mg
Fiber 2g
Sugar 2g
Vitamin A 169IU
Vitamin C 2mg
Calcium 93mg
Iron 3mg

For a tasty change, try buttermilk fried chicken tenders. They use buttermilk for a tangy and moist meat.

Questioning baking instead? Look at this oven-fried recipe. It’s lower in oil but still delicious.

Fried Chicken Strips Recipe

This chicken tenders recipe is a big hit. It’s loved by both the young and the young at heart. It takes 30 minutes or less to make. Plus, the tenders turn out crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Here’s what you need and the steps to follow:

  • Main Ingredients: You’ll need chicken breasts, all-purpose flour, cajun seasoning, eggs, and oil.
  • Marination: For great taste, marinate the chicken in a mix of milk, water, and egg for at least 2 hours.
  • Prepping: After marinating, coat the tenders in seasoned flour to get that crispy outside.
  • Frying: Deep fry them at 360°F for about 5-6 minutes. Make sure they reach 165°F inside.

If you’ve got some left over, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for 4 days. You can also freeze them for 4 months. To reheat, set your oven to 350°F and wait until they’re 165°F inside.

  • Serving Tips: Eat them with mashed potatoes, in a salad, or as an appetizer with sauces. You can also enjoy them in a sandwich.
  • Cooking Tips: Choose frying oils like canola, corn, or avocado that have a high smoke point. Don’t overcook to keep them juicy and soft.
  • Protein Punch: One tender has about 239 calories, 15g carbs, and 23g protein.

This recipe makes 12 tenders. Feel free to mix up the seasonings. Follow our advice to make the best fried chicken tenders every time.

  1. Prep Time: 10 minutes
  2. Cook Time: 30 minutes
  3. Total Time: 40 minutes
  4. Servings: 6 servings
  5. Calories per serving: 876kcal
Ingredient Quantity
Chicken tenders 3 pounds
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Lawry’s Season Salt 2 tablespoons
Black pepper 1 tablespoon
Buttermilk 1 1/2 cups
Large egg 1
Vegetable oil for frying 3 cups
Cooking temperature 350°F for frying
Internal temperature for chicken 165°F
Reviews 27
Recipe rating 4.60 out of 5.0

Conclusion

Making the perfect crispy chicken fingers is a fun journey. You choose the best chicken and get a perfect golden brown coating. Each step makes your chicken both crunchy and tender.

This recipe is not only easy but also quick. It will make your family and friends happy. Imagine how much they’ll love every crunchy bite with their favorite sauces and sides.

This dish also has ways to be healthier or different. So, everyone can enjoy it. Just gather your ingredients and follow the simple steps. You’ll soon be a master at making tasty, quick meals. These chicken fingers will be a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the cooking and the yummy food!

FAQ

What type of chicken is best for making homemade fried chicken tenders?

For homemade fried chicken tenders, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. It really depends on what you like. Breasts are lean but thighs are juicier.

How do I ensure my chicken strips are crispy and not greasy?

Keep the oil between 365-375 degrees and don’t put too many strips in at once. This will make sure your chicken has a crispy outside without being greasy.

Can I use a different coating if I don’t want to use beer batter?

You can use a milk and egg wash or buttermilk instead. They’ll make your chicken have a tasty crust and stay crispy.

How do I achieve uniform cooking for my chicken strips?

Cut the chicken pieces the same size and coat them fully. This will make sure they cook evenly.

What seasonings work best for fried chicken strips?

Start with salt and pepper. You can also try spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne for more flavor.

How do I avoid the breading from separating while frying?

Press the coating on firmly and let them sit a bit before frying. This helps the breading stick well and not fall off.

Can I bake the chicken strips instead of frying them for a healthier option?

Baking is a great option for healthy chicken strips. For a crunchy outside, use flour or whole grain breadcrumbs.

What dipping sauces pair well with fried chicken strips?

Good choices are ketchup, BBQ sauce, mustard, and ranch. You can pick what you like best.

How long should I fry each chicken strip?

Fry each strip for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden and cooked through. Always check to be sure they’re done.

What is the best oil for frying chicken strips?

The best oils for frying have high smoke points, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. They make the outside crispy without burning.

Are there any visual aids available for this recipe?

Yes, there’s a video tutorial that shows each step. It’ll help make your chicken strips just right.

What should I do if my chicken strips are cooking unevenly?

Make sure your chicken pieces are about the same size. Also, check the oil’s temperature stays steady. A good skillet, like cast iron, can help too.

Can I add extra spices to modify the flavor of the chicken strips?

Yes, you can! Add spices like paprika, hot sauce, or fresh herbs for a special flavor in your fried chicken strips.