Name: Fried Chicken Strips Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½-2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch-thick strips or chicken tenders; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; ½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup whole milk; Canola oil (vegetable oil or peanut oil) for frying, enough to fill the skillet 2 inches deep

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 69 reviews

If you are craving a crispy, juicy, and utterly irresistible snack or meal, this Fried Chicken Strips Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into perfectly seasoned chicken strips, coated in a crunchy golden crust that sings with flavor from the first crunch to the last. It’s one of those comfort foods that brings joy to any table, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Plus, this recipe is straightforward enough to whip up any day of the week, making it a go-to classic you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw, pink chicken strips placed on a white oval plate on the right side. Surrounding the chicken are small bowls with ingredients: a speckled beige bowl with two piles of light brown powder on the top left, next to it two wooden bowls filled with white salt and black pepper. Below these, a white bowl with a clear liquid, and another white bowl with a yellow oil, both placed on the left side of the chicken. Near the bottom left, a black bowl holds white flour, and close to it is a plain white egg. All items rest on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet each pack their own special role in creating that flawless balance of flavor, crispness, and moisture. From the tender chicken breasts to the perfectly spiced flour coating, every element matters in building the ultimate Fried Chicken Strips Recipe.

1½-2 pounds chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch-thick strips for even cooking and that ideal bite-sized shape.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: To season the chicken itself, enhancing its natural flavors.
1¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the crispy coating that crisps up so deliciously.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Mixed into the flour to add extra seasoning inside the crust.
½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper: For a subtle peppery kick that complements the chicken.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Brings a gentle savory depth without overpowering the flavor.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and a hint of robust garlic aroma.
2 large eggs: Creates a sticky layer that helps the flour adhere perfectly to the chicken.
¼ cup whole milk: Adds moisture to the egg wash for smoother dredging.
Canola oil (or vegetable/peanut oil): Essential for frying, chosen for its high smoke point and neutral taste.

How to Make Fried Chicken Strips Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oil

Start by pouring enough oil into a cast-iron skillet to create about 2 inches of depth — this ensures the chicken strips fry evenly all around. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches between 365 and 375°F. Keeping the temperature steady here is key for that perfect golden crust without burning.

Step 2: Set Up for Draining

While the oil heats, place a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet. This setup lets excess oil drip off the fried chicken strips so they stay crispy and not greasy.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of kosher salt over the cut chicken strips, tossing them gently to coat evenly. This initial seasoning penetrates directly into the meat, boosting flavor from the inside out.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour with 2 teaspoons kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. These spices build the flavorful crust everyone loves with fried chicken strips.

Step 5: Prepare the Egg Wash

In a separate shallow bowl, beat the eggs and whole milk until well combined. This mixture acts as the glue that holds the dry coating firmly on the chicken strips during frying.

Step 6: Dredge the Chicken Strips

First, coat 4 to 5 chicken strips in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Next, dip each strip into the egg wash, then dredge them again in the flour. Doing a double coating like this ensures an irresistibly crispy exterior.

Step 7: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the coated chicken strips into the hot oil. Fry 4 to 5 pieces at a time for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you notice the outside browning too quickly, lower the heat to avoid burning the crust before the chicken cooks through.

Step 8: Drain and Repeat

Transfer the cooked chicken strips onto the wire rack for draining. Repeat the dredging and frying process with the remaining chicken strips until all are cooked.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Once everything is ready, serve your freshly fried chicken strips warm with your favorite dipping sauces. The combination of crispy coating and juicy meat is downright addictive.

How to Serve Fried Chicken Strips Recipe

A metal tray holds a serving of seven golden brown fried chicken strips with a crunchy texture; the chicken pieces are arranged in a pile overlapping each other. Behind the chicken strips, thin French fries in a light yellow color fill the corner of the tray. Nestled near the fries are two small metal cups, one with bright red ketchup and the other with light yellow honey mustard sauce. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts nicely with the rich fried chicken.

Side Dishes

Classic pairings like crispy French fries, creamy coleslaw, or a tangy pickle salad complement the crunchy texture and savory flavors of the fried chicken strips beautifully, rounding out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your fried chicken strips in soft slider buns with lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a casual sandwich everyone will love. Or turn them into a crunchy topping on a fresh green salad to add texture and protein.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover fried chicken strips in an airtight container and refrigerate. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days and maintain a good amount of their crispiness.

Freezing

If you want to keep the fried chicken strips longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents sogginess and lets you enjoy the Fried Chicken Strips Recipe anytime.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated chicken strips in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crunch. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor, though the cooking time might be slightly longer. Just be sure to cut them into similar-size strips for even cooking.

What’s the best oil for frying chicken strips?

Oils with high smoke points like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil work best because they tolerate high heat without burning or imparting unwanted flavors.

How do I know when the chicken strips are fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The exterior should be a deep golden brown with no pink inside.

Can I bake the chicken strips instead of frying?

You can bake them for a healthier option, though the texture will be less crispy. Coat the strips with cooking spray or oil and bake at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dipping sauces go well with Fried Chicken Strips Recipe?

Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or spicy buffalo sauce. You can also whip up your own aioli or try sweet chili sauce for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

This Fried Chicken Strips Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with bold flavors and irresistible crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or hosting a casual get-together, these chicken strips are sure to impress and satisfy. Go ahead, give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting goodness of homemade fried chicken strips that taste better than takeout every time.