Chicken fries are fun and tasty strips of chicken that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce!
These are like the best chicken nuggets but in fry form—who can resist? I love to pair them with a spicy sauce for a little kick. Give them a try for an easy snack! 🍗🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender bites. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option. They work great for chicken fries too!
Buttermilk: This adds flavor and helps tenderize the chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes.
Flour and Bread Crumbs: All-purpose flour gives a solid base for your coating, while panko adds extra crunch. Feel free to swap panko for crushed cornflakes or toasted breadcrumbs for different textures!
Seasonings: The spices really amp up the flavor! If you want a milder version, reduce the cayenne. You could also add Italian seasoning or even taco seasoning for a unique twist.
How Do I Get My Chicken Fries Super Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crispiness is key for chicken fries! The following steps ensure you get a golden exterior:
- First, marinate the chicken in buttermilk. This not only flavors it but also makes it juicy.
- When breading, ensure the chicken strips are well-coated. Press lightly to help the coating stick.
- For extra crunch, double-dip: After the buttermilk, coat in flour, back to buttermilk, then flour again!
- Fry the chicken in batches—overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, preventing crispiness.
- Finally, let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This keeps them crispy.
Enjoy making your delicious chicken fries, and don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings!
How to Make Chicken Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin fry-shaped strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup fine bread crumbs or panko
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: dipping sauces (ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, etc.)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and an additional 20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 35 minutes. If you choose to marinate the chicken for longer, be sure to factor in that time too!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Begin by placing the chicken strips in a bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken until it’s fully covered. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Marinating the chicken helps keep it tender and flavorful!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, bread crumbs (or panko), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your chicken fries a delicious crispy coating.
3. Dredge the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken strips out of the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. One by one, dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks well. For extra crunch, you can dip them back into the buttermilk and then coat them another time in the flour mixture.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important that the oil is hot enough for frying to ensure that the chicken fries turn out crispy!
5. Fry the Chicken Strips:
Carefully place the chicken strips into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. You want them to be crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!
6. Drain the Excess Oil:
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken fries to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps remove any excess oil and keeps them crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your chicken fries are ready! Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard. Enjoy your crispy, juicy homemade chicken fries!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed before marinating. To thaw, place the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of sealing it in a bag and submerging it in cold water for a few hours.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by combining one cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). After breading the chicken strips, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
