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
Scale
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.
