crispy chicken strips

Crispy chicken strips are a classic favorite that everyone loves! Perfect for a family dinner, game day snack, or a delicious meal prep option, these chicken strips are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With a crunchy coating and juicy chicken inside, they are sure to impress.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Intensity:

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large breasts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into strips, about 1 inch wide. You can also pound the chicken slightly to ensure even cooking.
2. In a shallow bowl, season the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed.
4. In another shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Strips

5. Take each chicken strip and first coat it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
6. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
7. Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the chicken. Repeat this process for all the chicken strips.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer or Oven

8. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). If using an oven, preheat it to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Strips

9. For Air Fryer:

   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
   • Place the breaded chicken strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket.
   • Lightly spray the tops of the chicken strips with cooking spray.
   • Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

10. For Oven:

    • Place the breaded chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet.
    • Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

11. Once cooked, remove the chicken strips from the air fryer or oven and let them cool slightly.
12. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.

Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 180mg
• Sodium: 500mg

These crispy chicken strips are a crowd-pleaser and can be easily customized with different seasonings or dipping sauces. Enjoy them as a meal or snack, and savor the delightful crunch with every bite!