Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Strips: Ingredients & Tips

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Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Strips recipe

Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Strips are a beloved classic in many households and diners across the globe. Known for their irresistible crunch and tender, flavorful meat, these chicken strips have a unique charm that comes from the key ingredient: buttermilk. Buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also helps the breading stick, ensuring each bite is as satisfying as it is delicious. Dive into the origins of this delightful dish and discover why it remains a favorite among all age groups.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts: 1 pound, boneless and skinless, cut into strips
  • Buttermilk: 1 and 1/2 cups
  • All-purpose flour: 1 cup
  • Cornstarch: 1/4 cup (for extra crispiness)
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Cayenne pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (optional for a kick)
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste
  • Eggs: 2, beaten
  • Cooking oil: For frying

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, soak the chicken strips in buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This step is crucial as buttermilk acts as a tenderizer, making the chicken soft and juicy.

Breading and Frying

  1. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Dredge the Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk, shaking off excess. Dip each strip into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry chicken strips in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Air Fryer Method

  1. For Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Spray the chicken strips lightly with cooking oil and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy.

Tips and Variations

  • Ensure Breading Adheres: To keep the breading from falling off, let the breaded chicken sit for 10 minutes before frying. This allows the breading to set.
  • Substitutions: If you’re out of buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a quick substitute.
  • Add-ins: Customize your chicken strips with different spices according to taste. Try adding onion powder or a mix of dried herbs for additional flavors.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately 4 strips):

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 320mg

Conclusion

Crispy Fried Buttermilk Chicken Strips are not just a meal but an experience that brings a smile with every bite. Whether served as a snack during game nights or as a hearty dinner with sides, these chicken strips are sure to impress. Try them today, and don’t forget to share your culinary success on social media and with friends.

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