There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Strips. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or making a hearty snack, this recipe is bound to be a hit. Buttermilk chicken strips are beloved for their tender and juicy interior, perfectly encased in a crispy golden crust that shatters with every bite. The secret behind their success lies in the magic of buttermilk, which not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a delightful tang.
But what does buttermilk really do for chicken, and why do so many people swear by it? Read on to discover the secrets behind these crowd-pleasing crispy chicken strips and how you can master them in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Strips, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chicken and Marinade:
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Breading:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons water
Cooking Options:
- Vegetable oil for frying (if pan-frying or deep-frying)
- Cooking spray (if baking or using an air fryer)
Optional:
- Dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into uniform strips, about 1 inch wide. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Submerge the chicken strips in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Why does buttermilk make a difference? Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken while adding a slight tang to the flavor. The lactic acid in the buttermilk breaks down the proteins, making the meat softer and juicier. This step is key to achieving those tender chicken strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In a separate dish, whisk together the eggs and water to form an egg wash. These two mixtures will be used to coat the chicken strips before frying or baking.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken strips from the buttermilk and shake off any excess. Dip each strip first into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Then, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, and finally, dip it back into the flour for a second coating. This double coating will help ensure that the chicken strips come out extra crispy.
Tip: Be sure to press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken strips to create an even layer. If the breading falls off, it could be because the chicken strips were too wet, or the flour coating wasn’t applied properly.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Option 1: Frying (Pan-Fried or Deep-Fried)
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken strips to the hot oil in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the strips are golden brown and fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the strips from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Option 2: Baking (Oven-Baked Chicken Strips)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Lightly spray the strips with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the strips are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the cooking time.
Option 3: Air Frying (Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips)
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Lightly spray the strips with cooking spray. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Strips are cooked to perfection, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces on the side. These chicken strips are great for game day snacks, family dinners, or even packed lunches. Pair them with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Spice it Up: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade if you like your chicken strips spicy.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Lighter Version: For a lighter option, go for the oven-baked or air-fried methods. Both options deliver a satisfying crunch with less oil.
- Different Proteins: This recipe works great with other proteins such as turkey or pork strips. You can also use the same method for vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian twist.
- Why does the breading fall off? The breading might fall off if the chicken strips are too wet after the marinade or if the oil temperature isn’t hot enough. Be sure to pat the chicken dry and coat it thoroughly with the flour mixture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300-350 kcal (depending on cooking method)
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
Note: The nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used.
These Crispy Buttermilk Chicken Strips are sure to become a staple in your household, whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them. The magic of buttermilk ensures that your chicken stays tender and juicy while the crispy coating gives you that irresistible crunch. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Now it’s your turn! Try out this recipe, and let us know how it turned out by leaving a comment below. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us. Plus, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes like this one.