Chicken fries are crispy, fun-shaped pieces of chicken that are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. They’re just the right mix of juicy and crunchy!
Who doesn’t love finger foods? I like to make these for movie nights or quick dinners. Pair them with some ranch or barbecue sauce, and you’re set for a tasty treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Cut into strips, chicken breasts are the star of the dish. If you want to save time, chicken tenders work great too! They’re already cut and ready to go.
Buttermilk: This helps keep the chicken moist and adds flavor. If you don’t have any, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5 minutes to sour.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the fries their crunchy texture. If you want a gluten-free option, try using crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Adding it to the breadcrumbs boosts the flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, just skip it or use a vegan cheese alternative.
How Do I Get My Chicken Fries Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, following the breading process closely is crucial. Here’s how to make sure your chicken fries are crispy:
- Let the chicken marinate in buttermilk. This step not only makes it tender but also helps the breading stick.
- When breading, make sure each strip is well-coated in flour, then the buttermilk, and finally the panko. Press the breadcrumbs on for a good grip.
- Fry in batches! Overcrowding the pan will steam the chicken, so work in small groups for the best results.
- Keep the oil hot enough. If the oil isn’t hot, your chicken won’t get crispy. Use a thermometer or add a small breadcrumb to test. It should sizzle immediately.
With these tips, your chicken fries will turn out nice and crunchy every time!
How to Make Delicious Chicken Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips (about finger-sized)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- Cooking oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation and an additional 10-15 minutes for frying, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. In total, set aside about 1 hour to enjoy these crispy chicken fries!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Begin by placing your chicken strips in a mixing bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Make sure all the strips are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This process will help make the chicken tender and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Coatings:
While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to set up your breading station. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. In another shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it). Having everything ready will make the process smooth!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Once the marinating time is up, take the chicken strips out of the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Start by dredging each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it’s well coated. Then, dip it quickly back into the buttermilk (this step is optional for a thicker coating), and finally coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to help the crumbs stick.
4. Fry the Chicken:
Heat the cooking oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You’ll want about 1 to 1.5 inches of oil. Carefully place the chicken strips in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You might have to do this in batches depending on the size of your pan.
5. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken fries to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps them crispy! Serve hot with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy your homemade chicken fries!
Happy cooking, and enjoy your crispy, delicious chicken fries!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well, and they tend to be juicier. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized strips for even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free chicken fries, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. They can provide an equally crispy texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Chicken Fries?
Store any leftover chicken fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make the Coating Spicier?
Definitely! Add some cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even crushed red pepper flakes to your flour mixture to give your chicken fries an extra kick.
