5 Delicious Chicken Strip Recipes You'll Love

Chicken strips, often dubbed as chicken tenders or fingers, have become a beloved treat across the globe. Loved for their versatility and deliciousness, chicken strips can be turned into a gourmet dish or kept simple for a quick snack. In this post, we'll explore five delectable chicken strip recipes that you can easily make at home, ensuring they are both tasty and satisfying.

The Basics of Making Chicken Strips

Before diving into the recipes, let's review the foundational techniques for creating perfect chicken strips:

• Preparation: Start with fresh, boneless chicken breast or tenderloin. Slice into strips approximately 1 inch wide.
• Marination: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in your choice of spices, herbs, or sauces. This step ensures the strips are moist and flavorful.
• Coating: The traditional method involves breading the chicken in flour, egg wash, and then breadcrumbs. Experiment with different coatings for unique flavors.
• Cooking: Choose between frying, baking, or air-frying. Each method provides different textures and health benefits.

Recipe 1: Classic Southern Fried Chicken Strips

This recipe brings comfort food to the next level with a crispy exterior and juicy interior:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours.
2. Combine flour with spices in a shallow dish.
3. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, then dip back into the buttermilk, and coat again with the flour.
4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry chicken strips until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

🌟 Note: For the crispiest results, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying.

Recipe 2: Parmesan and Herb Chicken Strips

A twist on the classic, these strips are baked with a savory herb and cheese crust:

• 1 lb chicken breast strips
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp each: oregano, basil, thyme
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan and herbs.
3. Dip chicken in flour, egg, and then the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment, spray with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Recipe 3: Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken Strips

These strips offer a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup finely grated sharp cheddar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in half the mustard-honey mix for 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Mix breadcrumbs, cheddar, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat chicken in remaining mustard-honey mix, then breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, turning once.

Recipe 4: Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Chicken Strips

Health-conscious foodies will love these air-fried chicken strips with a zesty twist:

• 1 lb chicken breast strips
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper into the breadcrumbs.
2. Dip chicken strips in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
3. Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
4. Place strips in the air fryer basket, spray lightly with oil.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Recipe 5: International Fusion Chicken Strips

Bring global flavors to your kitchen with these fusion chicken strips:

• 1 lb chicken breast strips
• Marinade: 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tsp ginger (grated)
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
• 1 egg
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
2. Mix crushed tortilla chips with sesame seeds.
3. Dip chicken in beaten egg, then coat with chip mixture.
4. Fry in hot oil until golden, about 3 minutes per side.

In this culinary journey through five diverse chicken strip recipes, we've explored how simple ingredients can be transformed into mouthwatering dishes. Whether you prefer the comfort of classic southern frying, the health benefits of air-frying, or the exotic flavors of fusion cuisine, there's something here for every palate. Not only do these recipes offer variety, but they also provide an opportunity to experiment with different cooking techniques and flavor profiles. With these recipes in your repertoire, you can cater to any crowd or enjoy a delicious meal alone.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

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Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They tend to be more flavorful and can be cut into strips just like breasts. Adjust cooking time as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.

How can I make chicken strips healthier?

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Opt for baking or air-frying instead of frying in oil. Use whole grain breadcrumbs, reduce salt, or try alternative breading like almond flour for a healthier crust.

What dipping sauces pair well with chicken strips?

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Popular choices include BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, blue cheese, or even a homemade garlic aioli. Experiment with flavors that complement the strip’s coating or seasoning.