These crispy chicken fries are a fun twist on regular chicken! They’re crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them perfect for dipping.
Honestly, they’re like the cool cousin of chicken strips! I love serving them with a side of ranch or ketchup. They always disappear fast at my family dinners! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they’re lean and cook quickly. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, go for chicken tenders instead. They’re naturally tender and perfect for frying!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs make the chicken fries extra crispy. If you can’t find panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free option, try almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: While it’s optional, I love adding grated Parmesan for an extra crunch and flavor. If you want a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the cheese!
Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the spices! You can add cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile. Personalize it to what you enjoy most!
How Do You Fry Chicken Fries Without Making a Mess?
Frying can be tricky, but here’s how to do it successfully:
- Always heat the oil to the right temperature (350°F/175°C). This prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
- Use a thermometer! This is key for keeping the temperature steady while you fry.
- Fry in batches! Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can drop the oil temperature and lead to sogginess.
- Let the chicken fries rest on paper towels after frying. This will help soak up any excess oil and keep them crispy!
Enjoy perfecting your crispy chicken fries with these helpful tips!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola) for frying
- Dipping sauce of choice (ketchup, ranch, BBQ, etc.)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. Overall, you can have these crispy chicken fries ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips, about 1/2 inch wide and 3-4 inches long. Try to make them even so they cook at the same rate.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until nice and smooth. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese if you’re using it.
3. Bread the Chicken Strips:
Take each chicken strip and dip it first into the flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides well. Then dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken strip into the panko breadcrumb mixture, covering it completely. Repeat this process for all the chicken strips.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in about 1 inch of oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to check when it reaches about 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.
5. Fry the Chicken Fries:
Carefully place the breaded chicken fries in the hot oil, but make sure not to overcrowd the pan—fry in batches if necessary. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken fries from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy your crispy, crunchy, juicy homemade chicken fries!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add a richer flavor to your chicken fries. Just be sure to trim any excess fat and slice them into similar fry-shaped strips for even cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko on hand, regular breadcrumbs will work too, though they may not give you the same level of crunch. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or ground almonds!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness, rather than using the microwave.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them for a lighter option! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the breaded chicken fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.