Description
Who says fries are just for potatoes? These bite-sized chicken fries are a game-changer—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect for snacking, sharing, or adding a fun twist to your meal, they’re sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce that complements the savory coating.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- A pinch of smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into thin, fry-like strips. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve maximum crispiness.
- Create the Coating Station: In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
- Coat the Chicken Strips: Dip each chicken strip into the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the strip into the panko breadcrumbs, covering it completely. Set aside on a plate.
- Fry the Chicken Fries: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy), carefully add a few chicken strips at a time without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make the Dipping Sauce: While the chicken fries are frying, prepare the sauce by combining mayonnaise, ketchup, honey, lemon juice, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve Immediately: Arrange the crispy chicken fries on a platter and serve alongside the tangy dipping sauce. Enjoy as a snack, appetizer, or side dish!
Notes
- For a crispier coating, ensure the chicken strips are patted dry and press the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken. Consider double-coating for extra crunch.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to avoid greasiness or burning. Use a thermometer and test with a breadcrumb before frying.
- Customize the dipping sauce by adding Dijon mustard, fresh herbs, or sriracha for varied flavors. Ranch, barbecue, or buffalo sauce also work well as alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 10 chicken fries)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
Keywords: dinner , chicken fries, homemade fries, crispy chicken, appetizer, snack