These air fryer crispy chicken strips are the perfect balance of juicy on the inside and extra crispy on the outside. They deliver that classic fried chicken crunch without the need to fry in oil, making them a lighter but still life-changing option. Once you try these fried chicken tenders, you’ll never go back to deep frying.
I stumbled upon this recipe one evening when craving comfort food but didn’t want the guilt of flour and frying, so I went into an experimental phase. And I did it. I was amazed at how the air fryer gave the chicken a perfect crunch without needing all the oil, and the cleanup was a breeze. Now, it’s my go-to recipe when I’m in the mood for something crispy but still light and easy.
Can I Make Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Strips
Yes. You can achieve crispy, golden-brown chicken strips in the oven by using a well-seasoned breadcrumb coating and baking them at high heat. A light spray of oil helps create that perfect crunch without the need for deep frying.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken Strips
Soaking chicken strips in buttermilk makes them extra tender and flavorful while helping the coating stick better. The result is juicy, crispy fried chicken with a crunchy golden crust. It’s a classic comfort food that’s easy to make at home.
Best Dipping Sauce for this Recipe
A good dipping sauce takes chicken strips to the next level, whether it’s a tangy honey mustard, creamy ranch from homemade ranch seasoning, or spicy sriracha mayo. You can mix up a quick sauce with pantry staples for a perfect balance of flavors. Try experimenting with different dips to find your favorite.
Your Easy-Peasy Guide to Making Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders
Master the secret to crispy fried chicken strips with this simple, foolproof guide. Packed with flavor and crunch, these tenders are perfect for dipping, snacking, or serving as a crowd-pleasing meal.
Kitchen Must-Haves
- Air Fryer: A game-changer for crispy, golden bites with less oil and fuss.
- Bowl: The trusty mixing companion for easily coating, marinating, and tossing ingredients.
- Chopping Board: A sturdy surface that keeps your prep neat and your knives sharp.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending seasonings, eggs, or sauces into smooth perfection.
- Knife: Your go-to tool for clean, precise cuts on everything from chicken to veggies.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping, tossing, and confidently handling hot food.
Grab these Ingredients:
- Eggs: The ultimate binder for crispy, well-coated bites.
- Garlic Powder: A punch of savory, garlicky goodness in every bite.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky warmth that enhances any dish.
- Black Pepper: A touch of spice to balance and elevate flavors.
- Onion Powder: Subtle sweetness and depth for a well-rounded taste.
- Chicken Breasts: Lean, juicy, and the perfect canvas for bold flavors.
- Breadcrumbs: The secret to crispy, golden perfection.
- EVO Oil: A drizzle of richness for flavor and crispiness.
- Salt: Brings out the best in every ingredient.
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Make Extra Crispy Chicken Strips
First: Gather Your Ingredients
Grab everything you need. Chicken breast, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Don’t forget a little EVO oil for spraying. Having everything prepped makes cooking a breeze. Preheat your air fryer so it’s ready to go.
Second: Mix the Coating
Use two bowls: one for the eggs and one for the dry coating. Whisk the eggs until smooth in one bowl. In the other, mix breadcrumbs, almond flour, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This setup keeps the coating process quick and easy.
Third: Slice & Coat the Chicken
Cut the chicken breast into thin, fry-sized strips. Dip each strip into the egg mixture, then roll it in the breadcrumb mix, making sure it’s evenly coated. Set the coated strips aside on a plate, ready for frying.
Fourth: Prep the Air Fryer & Start Cooking
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with EVO oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer, leaving space between them for even cooking. Give them a light spritz of EVO oil for an extra crispy finish.
Five: Flip & Finish
Halfway through cooking, use tongs to flip the strips so they crisp up evenly on all sides. They’re ready to serve once they’re golden brown and perfectly crunchy.
Handy Tips for Making Tasty Wins:
- Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken strips cook up juicier and more flavorful than frozen ones.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Leave space between the strips so they crisp up evenly.
- Double dip for extra crunch: Coat the chicken twice in the breadcrumb mixture for an ultra-crispy crust.
- Preheat the air fryer: A hot air fryer ensures even cooking and a perfect golden-brown finish.
- Lightly spray with oil: A quick oil mist helps create a crispy, golden crust without deep frying.
- Flip halfway through cooking: This ensures both sides get evenly crispy and golden.
- Let them rest before serving: Allowing the chicken strips to rest for a few minutes keeps them crispy.
- Reheat properly: Warm them in an air fryer or oven to restore crunch instead of microwaving.
Your Questions, My Answers
What are the Pairings to Try with Crunchy Chicken Strips?
Crispy chicken strips go well with everything from classic fries to fresh salads like kale and Parmesan salad or Italian green bean salad. For a full meal, serve them with mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw. If you’re feeling adventurous, try them in wraps, sandwiches, or waffles with maple syrup.
To keep leftover chicken strips crispy, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture, and store them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in an air fryer or oven to restore their crunch.
How to Freeze Breaded Chicken Strips?
For best results, freeze breaded chicken strips before cooking to maintain their crispiness. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, cook them straight from frozen in the air fryer or oven, no need to thaw.
More Stress-Free Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re craving delicious and easy-to-make meals, you’ll love these dishes. Start with a creamy baked feta cheese dip with eggs. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for breakfast or as a dip for snacks. Crispy air fryer chicken drumsticks cook up quickly with minimal oil, making them an easy choice for dinner.
Garlic mashed cauliflower is creamy, buttery, and packed with garlic flavor, perfect as a side dish or main for a lighter meal. These recipes are perfect for a flavorful and stress-free meal any day of the week.
Pin and Come Back Anytime
Need Support or have Questions? Join us on Facebook.
Follow us on Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, Flipboard, or YouTube.
For weekly New Recipes and a FREE E-Book get into our NEWSLETTER.
Get the Printable Version
Show Some Love with a 5-Star Rating
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Strips
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Pieces Eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 2 Pieces Chicken Breasts sliced into thin strips lengthwise
- 1 Cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 Tablespoon EVO Oil for spraying
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
Video
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into thin strips and measure all seasonings, eggs, and coatings. Preheat the air fryer and have everything ready for easy assembly.
- Whisk eggs in one bowl and combine breadcrumbs, almond flour, and seasonings in another to set up your coating stations.
- Dip chicken strips in the egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mix until evenly coated, setting them aside on a plate.
- Spray the air fryer basket with EVO oil, arrange the strips in a single layer, and lightly mist the tops for extra crispiness.
- Flip halfway through cooking for even browning; cook until golden and crispy before serving warm with your favorite dip.
Notes
- Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken strips cook up juicier and more flavorful than frozen ones.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Leave space between the strips so they crisp up evenly.
- Double dip for extra crunch: Coat the chicken twice in the breadcrumb mixture for an ultra-crispy crust.
- Preheat the air fryer: A hot air fryer ensures even cooking and a perfect golden-brown finish.
- Lightly spray with oil: A quick oil mist helps create a crispy, golden crust without deep frying.
- Flip halfway through cooking: This ensures both sides get evenly crispy and golden.
- Let them rest before serving: Allowing the chicken strips to rest for a few minutes keeps them crispy.
- Reheat properly: Warm them in an air fryer or oven to restore crunch instead of microwaving.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
other chicken recipes to try
Try other chicken recipes to keep your meals exciting and full of flavor. From bold marinades to cozy baked dishes and quick stir-fries, there are plenty of delicious ways to switch things up.
