Southern Baked Fried Chicken Strips – Crispy, Juicy & Oven-Friendly
Table of Contents
Southern Baked Fried Chicken Strips
Welcome to this delicious recipe for Southern Baked Fried Chicken Strips! If you’re looking for a healthier twist on the classic Southern fried chicken, you’re in for a treat. These crispy, flavorful chicken strips are baked to perfection, giving you all the taste of traditional fried chicken without the extra oil. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Crispy and flavorful chicken strips
• Healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken
• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack
Let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need for this fantastic recipe:
Ingredients
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray
Now, let’s get cooking with the step-by-step instructions:
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk for about 30 minutes.
3. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge each buttermilk-soaked chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
5. Place the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray them with cooking spray.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
These Southern Baked Fried Chicken Strips are best served hot and crispy. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, a side of coleslaw, or some mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
If you want to add an extra kick to your chicken strips, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also experiment with different seasonings like ranch seasoning or Italian herbs for a unique flavor twist.
For a gluten-free version of this recipe, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a coating for the chicken strips.
Pro Tips for Success
• For extra crispy chicken strips, place a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken while baking.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can prevent the chicken strips from getting crispy.
• If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I store leftover chicken strips?
A: Store any leftover chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze these chicken strips?
A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked, breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw; simply bake them a bit longer straight from the freezer.
Q: Can I use an air fryer to make these chicken strips?
A: Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the chicken strips in a single layer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: How can I make these chicken strips spicier?
A: Add some cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicier kick.
Conclusion
There you have it – a scrumptious recipe for Southern Baked Fried Chicken Strips that will satisfy your cravings for crispy, flavorful chicken without all the extra grease. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a gathering, these baked chicken strips are sure to be a hit. Get creative with your seasonings and enjoy a healthier take on a Southern classic!
Southern “Fried” Baked Chicken Strips
Enjoy these crispy and flavorful chicken strips that are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Baked to perfection with simple ingredients, these Southern-inspired chicken strips make a perfect weeknight dinner or party snack.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk for about 30 minutes.
- Mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat each buttermilk-soaked chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet and spray with cooking spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and coating is crispy.
