Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Southern cooking? Look no further than the beloved Southern Fried Chicken Strips. This classic dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, known for its crispy, flavorful coating and tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving comfort food, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. Let’s dive into the world of Southern Fried Chicken Strips and discover what makes them so special.
What is the Difference Between Fried Chicken and Southern Fried Chicken?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s clarify the difference between fried chicken and Southern fried chicken. While both dishes involve frying chicken, Southern fried chicken is distinguished by its unique seasoning and cooking methods. It typically features a well-seasoned batter or breading that includes a blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. This seasoning creates a flavorful crust that sets Southern fried chicken apart from its counterparts.
Why is it Called Southern Fried Chicken?
The name “Southern fried chicken” pays homage to its roots in the Southern United States. This iconic dish has been a staple of Southern cuisine for generations, often enjoyed at family gatherings, picnics, and Sunday dinners. Its crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender interior have made it a favorite across the country.
Ingredients
To make delicious Southern Fried Chicken Strips, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Strips:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine the chicken strips, buttermilk, and hot sauce (if using). Ensure the chicken is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend is the secret to the perfect Southern Fried Chicken Strips.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each strip in the breading mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the chicken strips for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Tips and Variations
- Air Fryer Option: To make Southern Fried Chicken Strips in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the breaded chicken strips in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne, or increase it for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Southern Fried Chicken Strips with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, and cornbread.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (approximately 4 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
In conclusion, Southern Fried Chicken Strips are a mouthwatering dish that brings the flavors of the South to your table. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, these chicken strips are a true delight. Whether you enjoy them as a main course or a tasty snack, they’re sure to please family and friends alike.
Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your culinary adventures with Southern Fried Chicken Strips. Don’t forget to share this recipe on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes from easycrispyrecipes.com.