chicken strips recipe air fryer
The Best chicken strips recipe air fryer
Oh, I just love making chicken strips in the air fryer—it’s one of those simple, foolproof recipes that makes life so much easier. There’s something about crispy, golden strips of chicken that hit the spot, whether you’re feeding a big family for a game day or just grabbing a quick bite after a long day. I’ve been using this method for years, and honestly, it’s the only way I’ll ever make them again. The air fryer does all the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to deal with greasy pans or a crowded oven. Plus, it’s way faster than deep-frying, and the results are just as satisfying—crispy outside, tender inside, no soggy mess.
My kids actually beg for these strips every time I make them. They’re the perfect handheld snack, whether you’re serving them with ketchup and pickles or dipping them in honey mustard or BBQ sauce. I’ve even used them in wraps or as a side for tacos, and they always disappear fast. And the best part? It’s a healthier version of what you’d get in a restaurant or frozen meal. No deep-frying means less oil, but the flavor and texture are just as good. Plus, you can season them however you like—spicy, sweet, savory—so it’s really just as easy as tossing in some salt and pepper. It’s a win for everyone, from the kids who love the crunch to me who loves not having to clean up a kitchen full of grease. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers or extra chicken from a roast. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Strips
Juicy and crispy chicken strips cooked in the air fryer with a simple homemade breading and tomato-based sauce for a quick and delicious meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp honey
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly oil the air fryer basket if needed.
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2 Cut chicken strips into even-sized pieces. In a shallow bowl, beat the egg.
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3 In another bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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4 Dredge each chicken strip in the egg, then coat thoroughly with the flour mixture.
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5 Arrange chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
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6 Air fry for 10 minutes. Flip the strips and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
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7 While chicken cooks, mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl.
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8 Once chicken is cooked, remove from air fryer and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Pour sauce over the chicken strips and toss gently to coat.
🔧Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Paper towels
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Strips Works
This chicken strips recipe in the air fryer is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s quick, crispy, and ready in under twenty minutes—perfect for when you need something easy but still impressive for family gatherings. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a busy holiday spread, these strips hold up well and let you focus on other tasks without worrying about burning or soggy bites. Plus, they’re foolproof for picky eaters and always taste better than store-bought, so no one ever has to say they’re not hungry.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Strips
1. What ingredients do I need to make air fryer chicken strips?
To make crispy air fryer chicken strips, you’ll need: – Chicken breast or thighs (cut into 1-inch strips) – 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil) – 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) – 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar – 1 tsp garlic powder – 1 tsp paprika (or smoked paprika for extra flavor) – ½ tsp black pepper – ½ tsp salt (or to taste) – Optional: 1 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crispiness) or 1 tsp mustard powder
2. How do I prepare the chicken strips before air frying?
Before air frying, pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness. In a bowl, toss the strips with olive oil, then mix in all the seasonings (soy sauce, honey/sugar, garlic powder, paprika, pepper, and salt). If using cornstarch, lightly coat the strips in a thin layer. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb flavors before air frying.
3. What temperature and time should I set for air frying chicken strips?
For perfectly crispy air fryer chicken strips: – Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). – Cook in batches if needed (chicken strips can crowd the basket). – Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. – Check for doneness—chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) internally (use a meat thermometer). – If they’re not crispy enough, air fry for an extra 1–2 minutes at the end.
4. Can I make air fryer chicken strips gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) instead of regular soy sauce. Skip added salt if your tamari is low-sodium, or adjust to taste. Avoid honey if it contains honey (some brands use agave or maple syrup), but brown sugar is usually safe. For extra crispiness, coat strips in cornstarch (ensure it’s gluten-free) before air frying.
5. What can I serve with air fryer chicken strips?
Air fryer chicken strips pair well with: – Classic sides: Crispy roasted potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. – Sauces: Honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a simple yogurt-dill sauce. – Extras: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or a warm cornbread or biscuits. – Breakfast: Serve with avocado toast or scrambled eggs for a quick meal. – Dips: Ranch, tzatziki, or a spicy mayo for dipping.
