1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the chicken strips to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the chicken to tenderize and absorb the flavors.
2. Prepare the Breading
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, panko breadcrumbs, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Bread the Chicken
- Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each strip in the breading mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess breading.
4. Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for even frying.
5. Fry the Chicken Strips
- Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil, a few at a time to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the chicken strips for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken strips from the oil using tongs and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the crunchy and juicy chicken strips hot, with your favorite dipping sauces on the side.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Strips
- Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate in the buttermilk for at least 1 hour to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil temperature at a consistent 350°F (175°C) for even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- Use a Wire Rack: Place the fried chicken strips on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crispy.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Chicken Strips: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Crusted Chicken Strips: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the breading mixture for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Chicken Strips: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Conclusion
Crunchy and juicy chicken strips are a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy coating and tender interior, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect chicken strips lies in the marination and breading process, as well as maintaining the right frying temperature. By following this guide, you’ll achieve crunchy, golden, and juicy chicken strips every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your crunchy and juicy chicken strips!