These fun Chicken Fries are crispy, tasty strips of chicken that are perfect for dipping! They’re not your average chicken fingers—these guys are shaped like fries!
Who doesn’t love finger food? I enjoy serving them with barbecue sauce or ranch. They’re great for parties or just munching on while binge-watching your favorite show!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender and juicy fries. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute with turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian version!
Buttermilk: This ingredient helps make the chicken tender and flavorful. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Cornmeal: It adds extra crunch but can be replaced with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if you’re in a pinch. These substitutes will still give a nice texture!
Spices: The spices enhance the flavor. Feel free to adjust the amounts according to your taste. I love adding a little more paprika for extra color.
How Do I Deep Fry Chicken Fries Without Messing It Up?
Deep frying can seem tricky, but with a few easy steps, you’ll nail it! Here’s how:
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. It should be around 350°F (175°C) before frying. This prevents soggy fries.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking.
- Drain the fries on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve crispy, delicious chicken fries that everyone will love!
How to Make Chicken Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Fries:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 large eggs
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., ketchup, BBQ sauce, ranch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes for preparation and marinating, plus 15-20 minutes for frying. All in all, you can have these delicious chicken fries ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by slicing the boneless chicken breasts into thin strips, aiming for about 1/2 inch wide. This will help them cook evenly and look like fries!
2. Marinate in Buttermilk:
Place the chicken strips into a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This marinating step makes the chicken juicy and tender!
3. Mix Your Breading:
While the chicken is marinating, take a shallow dish and combine the flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are mixed together.
4. Prepare for Breading:
In another shallow bowl, beat the two large eggs until well combined. This will be your egg wash for the chicken strips.
5. Coat the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken strips out of the buttermilk (letting any excess drip off). First, dip each strip in the beaten eggs, making sure it’s coated well. Then, roll it in the breading mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks properly.
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature; this is important for getting crispy fries!
7. Fry the Chicken Strips:
Carefully add the coated chicken strips to the hot oil in batches. Do not overcrowd the pan! Fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are fully cooked.
8. Drain and Serve:
Once they are golden and cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken fries from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This helps get rid of any excess oil.
9. Enjoy Your Chicken Fries:
Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy these crispy, golden treats as a snack or part of a delicious meal!
Happy cooking and enjoy your homemade chicken fries!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor to your chicken fries. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before slicing into strips.
What Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before using.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture again!
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
