These Chicken Fries are perfect for a quick snack or a fun appetizer! They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them super satisfying to munch on.
Honestly, who doesn’t love fries? But chicken fries? That’s a whole new level of deliciousness! I like to dip them in my favorite sauce for an extra kick—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These provide the main protein. You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even turkey if you’re looking for a leaner alternative.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for that extra crunch! If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs, or use crushed cornflakes.
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder bring flavor. You can swap paprika with cayenne for heat, or add Italian herbs for a different twist.
Dipping Sauce: While ketchup is classic, try ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for variety. I personally love a spicy mayo!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Fries Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about the coating. Here’s how to do it:
- Use three bowls: one for flour mix, one for egg, and one for panko. This keeps things organized and helps with even coating.
- Make sure the chicken strips are well-coated by gently pressing the panko breadcrumbs onto them. This helps them stick and ensures they crisp up nicely.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying! Fry in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature. This ensures even cooking and a better fry.
- Let the fried chicken fries drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This keeps them crispier and prevents sogginess.
How to Make Chicken Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Fries:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For Dipping (Optional):
- Ketchup
- BBQ sauce
- Ranch dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack, a fun family dinner, or a party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by slicing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into thin strips, similar to the size and shape of fries. This helps them cook evenly and gives you the perfect bite-sized pieces!
2. Set Up Your Coating Stations:
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This is your seasoned flour. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish. You now have three stations for coating your chicken!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken strip and first dip it into the seasoned flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, then finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them stick well.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to check that the oil reaches about 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for frying—hot enough to get a crispy coating!
5. Fry the Chicken Strips:
Carefully add the coated chicken strips to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking!
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken fries to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, BBQ, or ranch dressing.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy chicken fries as a tasty snack or appetizer! They’re sure to be a hit with friends and family!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just ensure they are also cut into thin strips to maintain even cooking.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken fries on a greased baking sheet and spray them lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through, turning halfway for even crisping.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again!
Can I Freeze Chicken Fries?
Yes, you can freeze them! Freeze the uncooked, breaded chicken fries on a baking sheet for a couple of hours until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Fry or bake them from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!