Perfectly Crispy Chicken Strips: A Family-Favorite Recipe

Crispy chicken strips are a hit with kids and adults alike! Whether you're looking to enjoy them as an after-school snack or serve them with your favorite dipping sauce at a family dinner, these tender yet crunchy morsels will quickly become a regular in your home. In this article, we'll walk through how easy it is to make perfectly crispy chicken strips using just five ingredients and minimal fuss.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes
Servings: Serves 4-6 people

Ingredients You Will Need

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1/3 cup flour (you may choose to use all-purpose or whole wheat flour)
• 1 egg beaten with ½ teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper for flavoring
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs or regular breadcrumbs
• Olive oil or any cooking spray for deep-frying

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Crispy Chicken Strips

To start, prepare your chicken by slicing the breasts into strips. Ensure that each piece is of uniform thickness so they cook evenly. Lay out these pieces on a plate to let them marinate in the egg mixture for about 5 minutes.

In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the flour with salt and pepper. Dredge your chicken strips through this mixture, coating all sides thoroughly. Next, dip each piece into the beaten egg and then press it back into the panko breadcrumbs to ensure adequate coating.

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C).
2. Add chicken strips one at a time; do not overcrowd the pan. You can cook them in batches if necessary, ensuring each side gets enough time to crisp up properly.
3. Deep-fry your chicken for approximately 8-10 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides. If using a kitchen thermometer is not feasible, check visually for golden brown coloration which indicates the doneness.
4. Once done, remove from heat immediately; allow excess oil to drain before transferring onto paper towels to absorb any remaining grease.

Tips For Achieving Maximum Crispy Texture

For ultimate crispiness, consider these tips:

• Bread your chicken strips twice - first lightly coat with flour and shake off excess, then dip into the egg wash followed by ample coating in breadcrumbs. This double layer helps create a thicker and more effective protective shell around the chicken.
• Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; cold oil can lead to soggy rather than crispy results. Invest in an instant-read thermometer if available for precise temperature control.
• Air drying chicken strips after marinating but before dipping into breadcrumbs ensures that they have less moisture content which leads directly to better crispiness once fried.

Pairing Options & Serving Suggestions

Crispy chicken strips can be enjoyed on their own with your choice of dips like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or even aioli. Alternatively, serve alongside your favorite sides such as coleslaw, baked potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, either place back into preheated oil for frying again or warm them gently in the microwave if they won't be served hot.

Conclusion

Making crispy chicken strips is simple yet rewarding. With just five main ingredients and some basic kitchen tools, you can create a dish that will delight everyone at your table. Whether used as part of a weekly meal rotation or reserved for special occasions, this recipe offers versatility both in terms of flavor combinations and presentation options.

Cheers to healthier eating habits while enjoying delicious homemade chicken strips! Happy cooking!