Crispy Chicken Strips
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
Seasoned Coating
- 1½ cups flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For Frying
- Vegetable or canola oil
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix:
- buttermilk
- egg
- hot sauce
Add chicken strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
2. Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, combine:
- flour
- cornstarch
- all seasonings
The cornstarch helps create extra crunch.
3. Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade.
Press firmly into the flour mixture until fully coated.
For extra crispy strips:
- dip back into the buttermilk
- coat in flour mixture a second time
4. Fry
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chicken strips in batches for 4–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Place on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crispy.
Optional Air Fryer Method
Spray coated strips lightly with oil.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Dipping Sauces
Try serving with:
- honey mustard
- ranch
- spicy mayo
- BBQ sauce
- garlic aioli
- buffalo sauce
Serve with fries, coleslaw, or crispy potato squares for a full meal.