✔ In a bowl, mix chicken strips, buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
✔ Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for extra tenderness).
✅ Marinating makes the chicken juicy & flavorful!
2️⃣ Prepare the Breading Station
✔ In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
✔ In another bowl, beat eggs with 2 tablespoons of water.
3️⃣ Coat the Chicken for Maximum Crunch
✔ Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess buttermilk drip off.
✔ Dredge in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally back into the flour mixture (for extra crunch!).
✔ Press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
✅ Double-dipping makes the coating crispier!
4️⃣ Fry to Golden Perfection
✔ Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
✔ Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown & fully cooked.
✔ Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
✅ Don’t overcrowd the pan—it keeps the oil hot for crispy results!
🔥 Alternative Cooking Methods
✔ Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray with oil for extra crispiness.
✔ Oven-Baked: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
✅ Still crispy, but with less oil!
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
✔ Garnish with chopped parsley or extra seasoning for extra flavor.
✅ Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—absolutely delicious!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Spicy Chicken Strips – Add extra cayenne & hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. 🌶️
🔹 Parmesan Crusted Chicken – Mix grated Parmesan into the flour coating. 🧀
🔹 Asian-Style Crispy Strips – Toss in sweet chili or teriyaki sauce after frying. 🍯
🔹 Buffalo Chicken Strips – Coat in buffalo sauce after frying for a tangy kick! 🐔
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to keep them crispy.
✔ Freeze uncooked breaded chicken for up to 2 months—just fry or bake when ready!
✅ Best enjoyed fresh for that perfect crunch!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Best Homemade Crispy Chicken Strips!
These homemade crispy chicken strips are flavorful, crunchy, and better than fast food! Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
💡 Will you try this recipe? Let me know your favorite dipping sauce! 🍗
