There’s something utterly delightful about biting into a crispy chicken strip, isn’t there? Imagine the satisfying crunch followed by juicy, tender chicken. Now, pair that with a zesty homemade sauce that dances on your taste buds. The combination of flavors makes my heart do a little happy dance every time.
As I reminisce about family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food, I can’t help but remember those evenings when everyone gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting my famous delicious chicken strips with a zesty homemade sauce. They are perfect for everything from cozy weeknight dinners to party snacks, bringing both comfort and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These delicious chicken strips stand out due to their ease of preparation and irresistible flavor profile
- The vibrant colors make them visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- Plus, they are versatile enough for dipping or topping salads
Every time I whip up this recipe, friends and family can’t resist coming back for seconds. Watching their eyes light up as they take their first bite is priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts for a family-sized feast.
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All-Purpose Flour: This helps create that crispy coating; don’t skip it!
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Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunchy texture that makes each bite irresistible.
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Garlic Powder: Adds a wonderful depth of flavor; fresh garlic works too if you prefer!
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Salt and Pepper: Classic seasonings to enhance all the flavors in your strips.
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Eggs: Used for binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
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Your Favorite Oil (like Canola or Vegetable): For frying to achieve that golden-brown perfection.
For the Sauce:
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Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of our zesty sauce; use full-fat for richness.
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Hot Sauce: Add your favorite hot sauce for that kick; adjust according to your spice tolerance!
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Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up all the flavors beautifully.
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Honey: Balances heat with sweetness; trust me on this one!
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Dried Herbs (like Dill or Parsley): For an extra pop of flavor and color.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Chicken Strips: Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into even strips. Aim for about one-inch pieces so they cook evenly and get crispy.
Create Your Breading Station: In three separate bowls, set up flour mixed with salt and pepper in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder in the last bowl.
Dip and Coat the Chicken Strips: Take each chicken strip, dip it into flour first, then into egg, and finally coat it well with panko breadcrumbs. This layering ensures maximum crunchiness!
Heat Up Your Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom generously. Wait until it’s hot enough; you can test this by dropping in a breadcrumb—if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
Fry Until Golden Brown!: Carefully add your coated chicken strips into the hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. The kitchen will smell heavenly!
Mix Up That Zesty Sauce!: While your chicken is frying away blissfully, whisk together mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, honey, and dried herbs in a small bowl until smooth.
Serve these delicious chicken strips with a zesty homemade sauce alongside some fresh veggies or on top of salads—the possibilities are endless! Enjoy every crunchy bite!
You Must Know
- The secret to delicious chicken strips with a zesty homemade sauce lies in marinating the chicken first
- This enhances flavor absorption and tenderness
- The dish pairs beautifully with fresh veggies or a side of crispy fries, making it a hit for family dinners or game nights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken strips until golden brown, then bake them to ensure they stay juicy. This method locks in flavor while giving you that satisfying crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika or garlic powder, or swap the chicken for tofu for a vegetarian twist. Add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken strips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, let your chicken marinate overnight; it makes all the difference
- Ensure your oil is hot before frying to avoid soggy strips
- Don’t overcrowd your pan while cooking; give each strip space to crisp up nicely
Sometimes, I whip up these delicious chicken strips with my kids. Their smiles make all the effort worthwhile, especially when they ask for seconds (and thirds!).
FAQ
What is the best way to marinate chicken?
Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes but overnight is ideal.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
What can I serve with these chicken strips?
Serve them with fries, salad, or even as a topping on nachos for a fun twist!
Crispy Chicken Strips with Zesty Homemade Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the perfect combination of crunchy and juicy with these Crispy Chicken Strips served alongside a zesty homemade sauce. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering, these chicken strips are easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious. The golden-brown coating paired with a spicy and creamy sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup canola oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp dried herbs (like dill or parsley)
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into even one-inch strips.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder.
- Dip each strip into the flour, then the egg, and finally coat it in panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Fry the coated chicken strips for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, honey, and dried herbs to make the zesty sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 chicken strips (100g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
