Name: Fried Chicken Strips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½-2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch-thick strips, or chicken tenders; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup whole milk; canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil

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Nothing beats the addictive crunch of golden, crispy fried chicken strips, with their perfectly seasoned exterior giving way to tender, juicy chicken inside. They offer that satisfying crunch that can turn any meal into a joyful occasion. Each bite bursts with flavor, making these strips a timeless classic that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering treat, this fried chicken strips recipe delivers comfort you can count on.

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What makes this recipe stand out is its accessibility. With simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, this dish is as budget-friendly as it is delicious. It takes just about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making it an easy choice for busy nights or when you crave something special. Whether served alongside fries or your favorite dipping sauces, these homemade fried chicken strips are bound to leave your taste buds dancing. Give them a try; you won’t regret it!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Fried Chicken Strips
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Fried Chicken Strips

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: You can whip them up in under an hour from start to finish.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spices and the crispy coating create a mouthwatering experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Golden strips that look and taste amazing are perfect for impressing guests.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy them as a snack, in a sandwich, or paired with your meal.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapt the recipe for gluten-free usage or to fit other dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1½-2 pounds chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch-thick strips or use chicken tenders for ease.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste preference.
1¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base for a crispy coating; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: For the seasoned flour mix; ensure even distribution in the coating.
½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat; adjust to your flavor preference.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides depth; garlic powder can be substituted if needed.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Complements the chicken beautifully for that classic fried chicken taste.
2 large eggs: Binds the flour to the chicken; room temperature works best for an even coating.
¼ cup whole milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture; any milk type can be used as a substitute.
Canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil: For frying; each option yields a deliciously crispy result.

How to Make Fried Chicken Strips

Prepare the Oil: Pour canola, vegetable, or peanut oil into a cast-iron skillet until it’s about 2 inches deep. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 365-375°F; keep an eye on it to prevent overheating.
Set Up a Cooling Rack: Place a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet, creating a spot to keep your fried chicken strips crispy.
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle chicken strips with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, tossing them to achieve an even coating.
Make the Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder until well combined.
Prepare the Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and ¼ cup whole milk until smooth.
Dredge the Chicken: Take 4-5 chicken strips at a time and coat them in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip each strip into the egg wash for an even coating, and finally dredge again in the flour mixture for maximum crunch.
Fry the Chicken Strips: Carefully place the coated chicken strips into the hot oil. Fry them in batches, 4-5 pieces at a time, for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If the coating starts browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
Cool the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken strips to the prepared wire rack, allowing excess oil to drain. Repeat with the remaining strips.
Serve Warm: Enjoy your crispy fried chicken strips right away with your favorite dipping sauces and fries for a complete meal.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover fried chicken strips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Note that the texture may change slightly after reheating, but a brief time in the oven can help refresh their crispiness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the skillet while frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Ensure your chicken strips are at room temperature before frying, which aids even cooking.
Use a candy thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for the best results.
If you want extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before frying.
For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or serve with your favorite hot sauce.

There’s something comforting about biting into a freshly made fried chicken strip. This recipe promises not just deliciousness but also the opportunity for experimentation. Mix up the spices, play with flavors, or even introduce your favorite dipping sauces. Whether making them for a casual night in or an exciting gathering, these chicken strips can only delight. Give them a try, and you may find a new family favorite meal.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for these fried chicken strips?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can make for even juicier strips. Just ensure they are cut to the same thickness to maintain even cooking times. The flavor will also be richer, which many people prefer.

How can I make these chicken strips gluten-free?

For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure your chicken isn’t pre-marinated in sauces that contain gluten. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged!

What dipping sauces pair well with fried chicken strips?

The classic choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and sweet chili sauce. You can also try adding some hot sauce to mayonnaise for a spicy twist. The options are endless!

Can these strips be baked instead of fried?

Yes, they can be baked! To do so, preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the breaded strips on a greased baking sheet and spritz them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. While they won’t be as crispy as fried, they’ll still be delicious!

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