Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe

I’m so excited to share this Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe with you—it’s one of those go-to meals that feels both fancy and totally doable on any weeknight. The seasoning blend creates such a delicious, crispy crust on the outside while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Honestly, it’s comfort food at its finest with a crispy twist that makes it perfect for family dinners or casual lunch gatherings.

Whenever I make these chicken strips, I love how quickly they come together without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just craving a golden, crispy protein, this Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe delivers every time. Plus, it’s super customizable and easy to master, so you’ll feel confident making it your own in no time.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

This Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe uses simple pantry staples that come together to deliver a crispy, perfectly seasoned crust with juicy chicken inside. Each ingredient plays a role, so I love explaining why they’re here and what to look for when shopping.

• Flour: This is your base for the breading; I prefer all-purpose for that classic crispiness that holds the seasoning.
• Kosher Salt: Crucial for flavor depth—don’t skip it! It enhances every other seasoning.
• Garlic Powder: Gives a subtle savory note without overpowering the chicken.
• Onion Powder: Adds a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor that complements garlic well.
• Freshly Ground Pepper: For mild heat and earthiness; fresh grind makes a noticeable difference.
• Paprika: Not just for color—paprika adds a warm, smoky touch that’s irresistible once fried.
• Egg: Acts as a glue to stick the flour coating to the chicken ensuring an even crust.
• Chicken Breasts: The heart of the recipe; cutting them into strips makes for perfect bite-sized pieces that cook evenly.
• Cooking Oil: I use non-GMO canola oil for its neutral flavor and good frying properties.

Make It Your Way

I love how easy it is to tweak this Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe to fit whatever mood I’m in or what ingredients I have on hand. You can season it hotter, swap out spices, or even change the cooking oil to suit your preferences.

• Variation: Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder for a smoky kick—trust me, it amps up the flavor without being overpowering.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a gluten-free blend for a crisp coating safe for gluten sensitivities.
• Oil Choices: You can try avocado or peanut oil for a different flavor profile and higher smoke points if you prefer.
• Chicken Cuts: For something juicier, try this method with chicken tenders or thinly sliced thighs—the key is uniform thickness for even cooking.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients Like a Pro

Start by heating your oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat until it hits around 350°F. If you don’t have a candy thermometer, a good test is dropping a pinch of flour in the oil—it should sizzle immediately without smoking. Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish, and beat your egg in a small bowl. Then slice your chicken breasts into strips about 1-inch thick for even cooking.

Step 2: Coat with Love

Here’s where the magic happens: First, roll your chicken strips in the seasoned flour until lightly coated. Next, dip each strip into the beaten egg, then back into the flour. I always roll them a final time in the flour before frying to build up a nice breading that crisps beautifully.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Gently place each strip in the hot oil—you don’t want to crowd the pan or the temperature will drop, making the crust soggy. Cook for about 4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip carefully and fry another 3 to 4 minutes. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it’s juicy and safe to eat.

Step 4: Drain & Serve

Transfer your golden chicken strips to a cooling rack set on a baking sheet with paper towels underneath. This helps the excess oil drain away so the strips stay crispy, not greasy. Serve immediately or keep them warm in a low oven until you’re ready—this trick really comes in handy when you’re making a big batch.

How to Serve Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives—it adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh brightness against the savory strips. Sometimes I’ll squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top for a subtle zing that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

These chicken strips pair wonderfully with classic sides like crispy French fries or a refreshing coleslaw. I also love serving them alongside a simple mixed green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter balance. And of course, dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo always steal the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken strips in soft flour tortillas with slaw and your favorite sauce for a quick chicken strip taco. I’ve also plated them buffet-style with an assortment of dips and colorful veggie sticks for parties, making them both tasty and a crowd-pleaser visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover chicken strips in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Placing a paper towel beneath them helps absorb extra moisture so they don’t get soggy.

Freezing

Freezing works great with this Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe. After frying and cooling completely, I flash freeze the strips on a tray before transferring them to a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months and reheat nicely without losing crunch.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop the strips in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes. This restores their crispiness better than microwaving, which tends to make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Pan Fried Chicken Strips Recipe has become such a comfort staple in my kitchen because it’s simple, quick, and always satisfying. I love sharing it with friends who want a dependable way to get crispy, juicy chicken that’s full of flavor without complicated steps. You’ll enjoy the texture, the balance of seasoning, and how easy it is to make ahead or customize. Give it a try—I bet it’ll become a family favorite in your home too!

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