CRISPY CHICKEN STRIPS

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into strips. Aim for uniform pieces so they cook evenly. You can also pound the chicken slightly to ensure all the strips are the same thickness, which helps with even cooking.

2. Set Up Your Dipping Station

Prepare three shallow bowls for the breading process:

• In the first bowl, place the flour and season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
• In the second bowl, crack and beat the eggs.
• In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs (panko works great for a super crispy texture), and if you’d like, add a pinch of extra salt, pepper, or cayenne for added flavor.

3. Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken strip and dip it into the flour mixture first, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour before dipping the chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll the strip in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well to the chicken. This double coating creates a super crispy crust.

4. Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan and come up about halfway on the chicken strips. Test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of breading into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough for frying.

5. Fry the Chicken Strips

Carefully add the chicken strips to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary. Cook the strips for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip the strips, ensuring an even crisp on both sides. Once done, transfer the chicken strips to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy chicken strips hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo. These strips pair perfectly with a side of fries, coleslaw, or even a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Strips:

• Double Dipping: For the ultimate crispy coating, don’t rush the dipping process. Double coating the chicken (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) ensures a thicker, crunchier exterior.
• Season the Flour: Make sure your flour is well-seasoned. The flour helps form the base of the crust, and seasoning it well adds flavor from the inside out.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For a crunchier texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs. They’re lighter and more airy than regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken strips that perfect crunch.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you add too many strips at once, the temperature of the oil will drop, and you’ll end up with greasy chicken. Fry the strips in batches to ensure each one gets a crisp coating.
• Temperature of the Oil: Too hot and the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too cool and the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy. A medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a golden, crispy crust while keeping the chicken juicy.

Variations:

• Spicy Crispy Chicken Strips: Add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
• Baked Version: For a lighter version, you can bake the chicken strips in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Why Crispy Chicken Strips Are a Family Favorite:

Crispy chicken strips are the kind of dish that everyone in the family can agree on. They’re easy to make, customizable, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re serving them to kids for a quick weeknight meal or using them as an appetizer for a gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, they pair wonderfully with all kinds of dipping sauces, making them a versatile option for any occasion.

Conclusion:

These Crispy Chicken Strips are a foolproof way to make a comforting, satisfying meal that everyone will love. With their tender chicken interior and crispy, golden exterior, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you dip them in your favorite sauce or enjoy them on their own, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try, and prepare for a new family favorite that’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen!