CRISPY CHICKEN STRIPS

Ingredients

Serves 4

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or tenders, cut into strips
  • ½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk (or plain yogurt)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (60 g) cornstarch (for that extra crunch!)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil or sunflower oil (enough for deep or shallow frying)

Instructions

Step 1 – Marinate the chicken

  1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken strips, coating them well.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for juicier chicken).

The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and gives it flavor.

Step 2 – Prepare the coating

  1. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Remove the chicken strips from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
  3. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture — press firmly so the coating sticks.
  4. For extra crunch, dip each coated strip back into the buttermilk, then re-coat in flour again (double dip = extra crispy!).

Step 3 – Fry

  1. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry chicken strips in small batches for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
  3. Remove and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 4 – Serve

Serve hot and crispy with your favorite dips:

  • Ranch dressing
  • Spicy mayo or honey mustard
  • Sweet chili or barbecue sauce

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken

  • Don’t overcrowd the pan — it drops the oil temperature and makes the coating soggy.
  • For oven-baked version: place coated strips on a greased rack and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Air fryer version: spray lightly with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or air fryer for 5–6 minutes to bring back crispiness (avoid the microwave!).

Serving Ideas

  • Serve in wraps, sandwiches, or over fries.
  • Pair with a coleslaw or buttered corn for a full meal.
  • Great for parties, picnics, or movie nights!