If you’ve been searching high and low for a foolproof recipe that delivers that signature golden crunch paired with juicy, tender chicken inside, you’ve just hit the jackpot. This Extra Crispy Chicken Strips Recipe is exactly what your taste buds have been craving: light, super crunchy coating and flavorful chicken that’s soaked in buttermilk for that perfect tenderness. It’s comfort food elevated, perfect for a family dinner, game day snacking, or even impressing friends at your next get-together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, these strips will become your go-to for satisfying crispy chicken cravings!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and the secret to making these chicken strips so incredibly delicious. Each item is carefully chosen to balance flavor, crunch, and juiciness — from the tangy buttermilk soak that tenderizes the meat to the unique blend of spices that create a crispy, flavorful crust.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into strips, these are the star protein that soak up all the flavors beautifully.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds a gentle tang and helps tenderize the chicken for that melt-in-your-mouth bite.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the coating that forms the crispy crust.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: The secret ingredient that amps up crunch and keeps the coating light.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky warmth and gorgeous color to the coating.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For that irresistible savory kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the crust puff up for extra crispiness.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binding agent for the coating, locking it in place.
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Gives a gentle zing to the egg wash, elevating the overall flavor.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures the chicken strips cook evenly and develop that perfect golden crust.
How to Make Extra Crispy Chicken Strips Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken strips into a bowl filled with the buttermilk. This step is crucial because the acidity in the buttermilk tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with a subtle tang. Let your chicken soak for at least 30 minutes or, for even better results, cover and refrigerate it up to 4 hours.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Coating
While your chicken is soaking, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking powder in a large bowl. This special blend adds incredible flavor and ensures that unbeatable crush-worthy crust you’re craving.
Step 3: Create the Egg Wash
In a separate small bowl, beat the large egg with the hot sauce. The hot sauce isn’t just for heat — it brightens the flavor and helps the coating stick like a charm.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Strips
Drain the chicken from the buttermilk (but don’t rinse them), then dip each piece into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Next, dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing firmly so the coating clings well to every crevice. For the crispiest bite, set the coated strips aside for 10 minutes — this rest really helps the flour adhere.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Carefully lower the strips into hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 4 to 6 minutes until the crust is a beautiful golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the strips and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
How to Serve Extra Crispy Chicken Strips Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of flaky sea salt can elevate the look and flavor of your crispy chicken strips. Whether you choose a handful of chopped scallions or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on the side, these subtle touches add freshness and balance to the hearty dish.
Side Dishes
These chicken strips pair wonderfully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, crispy French fries, or a tangy pickle salad. For a lighter twist, serve them alongside a crisp green salad or corn on the cob with a bit of melted butter. The possibilities are endless and perfect for mixing flavors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your chicken strips in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper for a casual yet inviting presentation. You can also serve them as sliders with soft buns and toppings like lettuce, tomato, and a swipe of spicy mayo for a fun finger food twist. For a party platter, include a variety of dipping sauces, letting everyone customize their crispy bites to their hearts’ content.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep that incredible crunch, avoid covering the container while the chicken is still warm, which can cause steam and sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze these chicken strips either before or after cooking. For best results, freeze them uncooked after marinating and coating but before frying; place them on a tray to freeze individually and then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen, adding extra frying time. Cooked strips freeze well too—just cool completely before wrapping tightly and freezing for up to 2 months.
Reheating
The trick to reheating your Extra Crispy Chicken Strips Recipe is to revive that crispy texture without drying out the chicken. Use an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crunchy again. Avoid the microwave unless you don’t mind sacrificing some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit juicier and can add extra flavor, but because they’re fattier, adjust cooking time and temperature slightly to ensure they’re cooked through and still crispy.
How can I make the chicken strips spicier?
Try increasing the hot sauce in the egg wash or adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry coating. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Is it necessary to soak the chicken in buttermilk?
While you can skip it, soaking in buttermilk really tenderizes the chicken and adds a touch of tangy flavor that complements the crispy coating beautifully. It’s definitely worth the extra step for the best texture.
Can I bake these chicken strips instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative! Coat the strips as directed and bake on a lightly greased rack at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.
What sauces pair well with this Extra Crispy Chicken Strips Recipe?
You can’t go wrong with classic ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or spicy sriracha mayo. Feel free to get creative and try avocado crema or a tangy blue cheese dip!
Final Thoughts
This Extra Crispy Chicken Strips Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes that never fails to bring smiles and satisfied sighs at the dinner table. The blend of crunchy, flavorful crust with tender, juicy chicken inside is pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family night in or a small crowd, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite — so grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious crispy chicken magic!
Print
Extra Crispy Chicken Strips Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Extra Crispy Chicken Strips are tender, juicy chicken breast strips soaked in buttermilk, then coated in a flavorful seasoned flour and cornstarch mixture, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Perfectly crispy on the outside and succulent inside, these chicken strips make a delicious main course or snack, ideal for comfort food lovers seeking a homemade fried chicken experience.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
For Frying
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Instructions
- Soak the Chicken: Place the chicken strips in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate and let them soak for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours to tenderize and infuse moisture.
- Prepare the Dry Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking powder until evenly combined.
- Make the Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl, then mix in the hot sauce to create a spicy egg wash that will help the coating stick to the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dip each strip into the egg wash, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Rest the Coated Chicken: Place the coated strips on a plate and let them rest for 10 minutes. This step helps the coating adhere better, resulting in extra crispiness.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or skillet to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer for accuracy to ensure perfect frying temperature.
- Fry the Chicken: Fry the chicken strips in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 4 to 6 minutes per batch or until golden brown and cooked through. Turn strips as needed for even browning.
- Drain and Rest: Transfer the fried chicken strips to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to maintain crispiness and ensure hot, juicy chicken.
Notes
- For an extra crunchy texture, double dredge the chicken by repeating the egg wash and flour coating steps.
- Adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo for added flavor.
- Ensure the oil temperature remains steady while frying to prevent greasy or undercooked chicken.
