CRISPY CHICKEN STRIPS

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Strips

1. Slice the chicken breasts into strips, each about 1 to 1.5 inches wide, depending on your preference.
2. Place the chicken strips in a bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Flour Coating

1. In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
3. In another shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs for the crispy coating.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Strips

1. Dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
2. Dip the floured chicken strip into the egg mixture, coating it thoroughly.
3. Then coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.
4. Repeat this process for all the chicken strips.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken Strips

1. Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Fry the chicken strips for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
3. Remove the cooked chicken strips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the crispy chicken strips with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch, or ketchup.
2. Optionally, serve with fries, a fresh salad, or alongside a warm sandwich.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Strips

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs or a combination of both panko and regular breadcrumbs.
• Double-Coat the Chicken: For an even crispier result, dip the chicken strips in the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs twice.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken cooks through. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Season the Flour: Don’t forget to season the flour mixture—this is where much of the flavor comes from!
• Oven Option: If you prefer not to fry, you can bake the coated chicken strips at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of the flour, egg, and breadcrumb coating creates the perfect crispy layer. Seasoning each layer ensures the chicken strips are flavorful from the inside out. Frying them in hot oil locks in moisture, resulting in juicy chicken with a satisfying crunch. This crispy chicken strip recipe will definitely satisfy your cravings and become a go-to in your kitchen!