Crispy Chicken Strips – The Ultimate Homemade Version!
Say goodbye to soggy, greasy takeout and hello to perfectly golden, crunchy, and juicy homemade chicken strips! These crispy chicken tenders are everything you love about classic comfort food—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with irresistible flavor. Whether you bake them or air-fry them, they’re healthier than deep-fried versions but just as satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, these chicken strips are bound to become your new go-to favorite.
Why These Are Better Than Takeout
Homemade means fresher, crunchier, and tastier! These chicken strips stay crisp without being oily, thanks to the double-dredge coating technique and light cooking methods. They’re perfectly seasoned with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne that adds just the right kick. Plus, they’re kid-approved, easy to make, and ideal for everything from snacks to full meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders or breast cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
For the Dredge:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
For the Coating:
- 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried parsley
For Cooking:
- ¼ cup olive oil or melted butter
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken strips in a bowl with buttermilk and hot sauce. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for the most tender results.
Step 2: Create Dredging Stations
Set up three bowls:
- Station 1: Mix flour and all seasonings together.
- Station 2: The buttermilk marinade.
- Station 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and parsley.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it back into the buttermilk, then press firmly into the Panko mixture to fully coat. Place the coated strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Oven Method:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the strips lightly with oil or melted butter. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the strips lightly with oil. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
Pro Tips for the Crispiest Strips
- Press breadcrumbs firmly: Helps the coating stick perfectly.
- Use a wire rack: Keeps the bottom from getting soggy.
- Don’t overcrowd: Space out strips for even cooking.
- Flip halfway: Ensures both sides are evenly golden.
Delicious Dipping Sauces
Honey Mustard: ¼ cup mayonnaise + 2 tbsp each honey & mustard
Creamy Ranch: Greek yogurt + ranch seasoning + lemon juice
Spicy Mayo: Mayonnaise + sriracha + lime juice
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade version
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Dinner: Serve with crispy fries and coleslaw.
- Healthy Option: Slice over a fresh salad with ranch dressing.
- Game Day Snack: Pair with celery sticks and blue cheese dip.
- Kids’ Lunch: Perfect with ketchup in lunchboxes.
Storage & Reheating
Make Ahead:
Freeze unbreaded strips for up to 3 months or cooked strips for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes
- Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes
(Avoid microwaving—they lose crispiness!)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Thighs are juicier and just as delicious—adjust cook time slightly if pieces are thicker.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Q: How do I keep them crispy for serving later?
A: Place cooked strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a low oven (200°F/95°C) until ready to serve.
Q: Can I skip the buttermilk?
A: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar—let sit 5 minutes before using.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate, serves 4)
- Calories: 340
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 460mg
Perfectly crispy, wonderfully juicy, and packed with flavor—these Crispy Chicken Strips are everything you love about your favorite restaurant version, made even better at home. Serve them hot, enjoy them fresh, and get ready for them to disappear fast!