Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, breadcrumbs, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each strip in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Place the coated strips on a plate or baking sheet.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Strips
- Heat the Oil: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil is ready when a small piece of bread dropped into it sizzles and turns golden brown within a minute.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Drain the Chicken: Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken strips from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, honey, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve Warm: Arrange the crispy chicken strips on a serving platter and serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Strips
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but overnight is ideal.
- Even Coating: Press the breading mixture firmly onto the chicken strips to ensure an even, crispy coating.
- Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Why This Recipe Works
Crispy chicken strips are beloved for their crunchy exterior and juicy interior. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor, while the seasoned flour and breadcrumb coating provides the perfect crunch. Frying at the right temperature ensures that the chicken is cooked through without being greasy.
Variations to Try
- Oven-Baked: For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken strips on a greased baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air-Fried: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the strips in a single layer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Different Seasonings: Experiment with different spices in the breading mixture, such as Italian seasoning, Cajun spices, or curry powder.
Serving Suggestions
- With Sides: Serve with classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
- In a Wrap: Use the chicken strips as a filling for wraps with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce.
- As a Sandwich: Make a crispy chicken sandwich with a toasted bun, pickles, lettuce, and mayonnaise.
Enjoy making and devouring these Crispy Chicken Strips, a guaranteed hit for any meal or occasion!