These Crispy Chicken Fries are the perfect snack or meal! Made with tender chicken coated in a crunchy breading, they’re super fun to eat and great for dipping.
I love serving them with a side of spicy ranch or honey mustard. They disappear fast, especially when friends are over! Who can resist those crispy bites? 🐔🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast Tenders: These are great for the recipe because they’re tender and cook quickly. If you don’t have tenders, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips or even thighs for a juicier bite.
Buttermilk: This helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These add a nice depth of flavor. You can swap them with fresh minced garlic and onions if you prefer a stronger taste, just adjust the quantity based on your liking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are key for that crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the crispiness might be a bit less. You could also try crushed crackers for a different flavor.
How Can I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Chicken Fries?
Getting that crispy texture involves a few key steps during the breading process. Here’s how to ensure your chicken fries are perfectly crunchy:
- Use Three Dipping Stations: This method of flour, egg, and then breadcrumbs creates layers that fry up nicely.
- Press the Coating: When coating the chicken in breadcrumbs, really press down to ensure it sticks well.
- Temperature Control: Keep your oil hot, around 350°F (175°C). If the temperature is too low, the chicken will absorb more oil and won’t be as crispy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature. This keeps your fries nice and crispy!
Following these tips will help you achieve a delicious crunch every time!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Fries:
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders, cut into fry-sized strips
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes (optional, for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 45 minutes in total. You’ll need about 30 minutes to marinate the chicken, and then around 15 minutes for preparation and frying the chicken fries. These delicious treats will be ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and stir to coat. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This helps keep the chicken tender and flavorful!
2. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare three shallow dishes. Put the flour in one dish, beat the eggs in another, and mix the panko breadcrumbs with the crushed cornflakes in the third. This will make the breading process quick and easy!
3. Bread the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken strips out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. First, dredge each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off any extra. Then dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat it well. Finally, roll the chicken strips in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure they stick.
4. Fry the Chicken Fries:
In a deep pan or fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken fries in batches for 3–4 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan!
5. Drain and Serve:
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken fries to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dips like honey mustard, ranch, or ketchup, and enjoy your crispy, golden Chicken Fries!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs! They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breast meat. Just be sure to cut them into fry-sized strips for even cooking.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 12 hours in the refrigerator. This longer marinating time will make the chicken even more tender and flavorful!
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Chicken Fries?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the breaded chicken fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
What Dipping Sauces Are Best?
There are many delicious options! Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch dressing, or ketchup. You could also try spicy sriracha mayo or BBQ sauce for a fun twist!
