If you are craving a crispy, juicy, and utterly irresistible chicken snack, this Easy Chicken Strips Recipe (Giant Chicken Nuggets) Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken strips with a golden, crunchy coating that tastes homemade yet comes together effortlessly. Perfect for a family meal, a party appetizer, or a fun dinner, these giant chicken nuggets deliver comfort in every bite and bring a little magic to your kitchen with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of basic ingredients is all it takes to nail this recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from adding flavor to creating that perfect crispy texture and beautiful color that makes these chicken strips so inviting.
- 2 large chicken breasts: The star of the dish, sliced and pounded for even cooking and tender bites.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This helps the coating adhere and adds the first layer of crunch.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning both the flour and chicken to boost flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Acting as the glue, eggs ensure the breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs (Italian Style recommended): These provide the irresistible golden crust and a hint of savory herbs.
- Oil for sautéing: A must for giving the chicken strips that lovely crispy finish without deep frying.
How to Make Easy Chicken Strips Recipe (Giant Chicken Nuggets) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by slicing each of your chicken breasts in half horizontally to reduce thickness, then cut each piece into smaller strips so you end up with 8 pieces total. Placing them on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until they are uniformly about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy inside while getting that perfect golden crust outside.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations
To make the breading process smooth and mess-free, arrange three shallow dishes. Mix the 1/2 cup flour with salt and pepper in the first, whisk the eggs in the second, and place the bread crumbs in the third. This classic dredge technique is the secret behind the crunchy, flavor-packed crust on each chicken strip.
Step 3: Coat Your Chicken Strips
Using a fork to handle the chicken keeps your hands clean and makes dipping easier. First, dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure every side is coated. Finally, press the strips into the bread crumbs, turning to cover all surfaces well. This triple-layer process is what gives this Easy Chicken Strips Recipe (Giant Chicken Nuggets) Recipe its signature crispy bite.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to generously coat the bottom—about 3 tablespoons. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add each chicken strip and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and cooked through. Transfer them to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil, then repeat with the remaining pieces, adding more oil if necessary.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Strips Recipe (Giant Chicken Nuggets) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dash of smoked paprika adds a lovely pop of color and an extra hint of flavor that brightens up these crunchy chicken strips. Don’t be shy with lemon wedges on the side—a quick squeeze enhances their savory depth beautifully.
Side Dishes
These giant chicken nuggets pair wonderfully with crispy fries, a fresh green salad, or creamy coleslaw for a lovely balance of textures and flavors. A side of steamed veggies or a simple pasta salad can also round out this meal perfectly, creating a crowd-pleasing feast everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Easy Chicken Strips Recipe (Giant Chicken Nuggets) Recipe on a rustic wooden board with an assortment of dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy mayo, or classic ranch. Arrange with colorful veggies or pita wedges for a fun, shareable spread that turns this humble recipe into a star at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After cooking, let your chicken strips cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Kept in the fridge, they stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy leftovers without losing their crispiness entirely.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these Easy Chicken Strips Recipe (Giant Chicken Nuggets) Recipe in advance, freeze fully cooked strips on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for quick meals on busy days.
Reheating
To reheat and retain maximum crunch, place your frozen or refrigerated chicken strips on a wire rack over a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor, though they may require slightly longer cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through. Just adjust the thickness so they cook evenly and follow the same breading process.
Is it better to bake or sauté these chicken strips?
Sautéing in oil creates that classic golden crust and faster cooking time, but you can bake them for a healthier version. Just spray the breaded strips with oil and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
What if I don’t have Italian style bread crumbs?
No worries! Plain bread crumbs work just fine; you can add your favorite dried herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic powder to mimic that Italian flavor. Panko crumbs also add an amazing crunch if you have them on hand.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular flour and bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Make sure to season accordingly, and you’ll keep that same delicious crunch without the gluten.
What dipping sauces go well with these chicken strips?
The options are endless! Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue, or buffalo sauce. For something different, try a garlicky aioli or a sweet chili sauce to complement the crispy coating and tender chicken inside.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about the simplicity and comfort of this Easy Chicken Strips Recipe (Giant Chicken Nuggets) Recipe. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, entertaining friends, or just treating yourself, these crispy, juicy chicken strips deliver flavor and fun every single time. So don’t wait—grab your ingredients and get cooking, because these giant chicken nuggets are sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Easy Chicken Strips Recipe (Giant Chicken Nuggets) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 large chicken strips
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Chicken Strips Recipe yields giant, crispy chicken nuggets made from tender chicken breasts coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and sautéed to golden perfection. Perfect as a quick snack, appetizer, or meal, these homemade chicken strips offer a delicious alternative to fast food with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
Dredging Mixture
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
Breading
- 3/4 cup Italian Style bread crumbs
Cooking
- About 3 tablespoons oil for sautéing (e.g., vegetable or canola oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally, then cut each piece again to create about 8 strips total. Place the strips on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap, and use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even 1/4 inch thickness for uniform cooking.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow dishes. In the first dish, mix the flour with salt and black pepper. In the second, whisk the eggs. In the third dish, place the bread crumbs.
- Coat the Chicken Strips: Using a fork to avoid messy hands, dip each chicken strip first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, followed by coating thoroughly with bread crumbs. Turn several times to ensure even coverage.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to generously coat the bottom (about 3 tablespoons). When the oil is hot, add the chicken strips carefully. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until the breading is golden brown and the internal temperature registers 165°F, ensuring the chicken is cooked through. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Repeat the process with remaining strips, adding more oil as necessary.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken strips are evenly pounded to 1/4 inch thickness to facilitate even cooking and tender texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Italian Style bread crumbs add extra flavor, but plain bread crumbs can be used as an alternative.
- For a crispier texture, you can finish the chicken strips in a preheated oven at 375°F for 5 minutes after sautéing.
- Adjust seasoning in the flour mixture according to taste, adding garlic powder or paprika for variation.
