Crispy And Succulent Chicken Strips

***Jump to Recipe***

Chicken strips, chicken fingers, those golden, crispy delights, have a storied past. Over the years, they’ve transformed from a down-home treat into a global sensation. Originating as just fried chicken cut into manageable bits, these strips have evolved, taking the culinary world by storm. More than just a piece of chicken, they’ve revolutionized fast food dining, embodying a convenient and universally appealing meal option.

Why have chicken strips gained such universal love? Well, their global appeal certainly plays a big role. Almost every corner of the world has embraced them, adding their own spins and flavors. From American diners to Asian street food stalls, these strips have found a place on menus, attracting a diverse fan base. Even picky eaters find comfort in their familiarity, making them a staple for families everywhere.

Delve a little deeper and you’ll see that chicken strips are more than just a meal; they’re a cultural bridge. They cater to everyone, cutting across age and background. Kids love them for their simplicity, teens dig their versatility (midnight snack, anyone?), and adults appreciate their no-fuss satisfaction.

In this fast-paced world, convenience is key. That’s where chicken strips have the upper hand. Home-cooked or fast-food versions, they offer an easy meal without compromising taste or enjoyment. The balance between quick preparation and delicious results is a winning formula, making them a hit in hurried households and busy restaurants.

The secret to their success? Listening to the people, of course! Restaurants big and small have tuned into customer feedback, tweaking recipes and serving options to fit the needs of their patrons. More flavors, healthier preparations, and innovative serving styles have kept chicken strips relevant and highly sought after. Indeed, the chicken strip is a testament to the power of adapting to taste trends and satisfying a worldwide craving.

The Perfect Accompaniments – Common Dipping Sauces for Chicken Strips

A chicken strip without a dip is like a party with no music. The right sauce can elevate this simple snack to a whole new level. Everyone’s got their go-to, whether it’s classic ketchup or something more exotic.

Let’s kick things off with the five kings of dipping: Ketchup holds its place as a quick fix, while BBQ sauce offers a smoky twist. Ranch is there for that creamy touch, and Honey Mustard provides a sweet contrast to the crispy chicken. And then, there’s the mix of tangy and sweet in the ever-popular Sweet & Sour.

Sauces are no longer just an add-on; they’re part of the main act, influenced by where you’re from or what flavor trip you’re on. The cultural tilt here is fascinating. In Asia, spicy plum sauces make an appearance, while Mediterranean-inspired garlic dips are a must in others. Your location might just dictate your dip of choice!

Got a flair for DIY? Making your own sauces at home means you can get creative and tailor the flavors exactly how you want them. Who says you can’t throw in a pinch of this or a dollop of that?

For those watching their calorie count, there are lighter options. Think about sauces based on Greek yogurt or vegan concoctions. They keep things delicious while staying kind on the waistline.

Restaurants love to push the envelope with their sauces. Ever notice those secret exclusive blends? These unique creations are designed to pull you back in for that unforgettable taste you won’t find anywhere else. It’s this innovation that keeps the sauce game exciting and ensures there’s always something new to try with your chicken strips.

Crafting Culinary Magic – Making Chicken Strips from Scratch

There’s something satisfying about making your own chicken strips at home. You get to control everything, from the quality of the ingredients to how crispy you want them to be. Start with high-quality chicken, and don’t skimp on the spices, because they’re your best friends here.

One decision you’ll have to make early on is whether you want to bake or fry those strips. Baking is the way to go for a healthier option without the heavy oil. Fried strips, though, capture that traditional crispiness that’s hard to resist.

Seasoning is where the magic happens. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne can bring a nice kick. Adjust your spices to suit your taste and experiment a little; that’s part of the fun!

Try brining your chicken before coating. It’s that simple secret that makes sure your strips are juicy and flavorful on the inside. All you need is a saltwater solution or some buttermilk to soak the chicken in for a few hours.

When it comes to cooking, a few tricks ensure success. Make sure each strip is evenly coated in your chosen batter. For optimal crispiness, keep those chicken pieces evenly spaced on the baking sheet or in the fryer. It’s all about letting them cook thoroughly and not overpowering them with oil or sogginess.

Homemade chicken strips are a testament to choice and creativity. Whether you’re dredging them in flour or opting for a gluten-free coating, you get to tailor them to your preferences. And with some trusty dipping sauces, you’ll have a meal that’s yours from start to finish.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 to 2 pounds chicken breast brined
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 eggs well beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat deep fryer to 350 degrees (or you can fill up a skillet about 2 inches high with oil)
2. Brine chicken breasts in 4 cups water with 1/4 cup of kosher salt for 30 minutes to 2 hours
3. Combine flour and dry ingredients in a mixing bowl
4. In a separate bowl beat 2 eggs until smooth
5. Chop chicken into strips
6. Add chicken pieces to flour/spice mix first, shake off any excess, add to egg mix, coat completely, and dip chicken again into flour/spice mix until chicken is completely covered. Shake off any excess and allow chicken to rest 5 to 10 minutes on a wire rack
7. Making sure chicken strips are spaced apart, place chicken strips in deep fryer basket. Dip into hot oil in deep fryer and allow to deep fry about 5 minutes or until crispy and golden.
8. Remove chicken from deep fryer and space in a dish covered in paper towel (to soak up oil).
9. Allow to rest 5 minutes. Make sure you aren’t stacking cooked chicken on top of each other, otherwise the oil from one can drop to another and cause some chicken strips to be oily.
10. Dip in your favorite dipping sauce whether that be BBQ sauce, honey mustard, Chick FilA sauce, my Hungarian dipping sauce etc etc.

Serves 4

Enjoy!