KFC Crispy Strips Recipe

Craving that iconic KFC flavor at home? These Crispy Strips are just what you need! With a perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating and juicy chicken inside, this recipe will have you saying goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade goodness. Let’s dive in!

KFC Crispy Strips are a fan-favorite for their golden, crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior. This Copycat recipe lets you recreate the iconic crispy chicken strips at home with a blend of flavorful seasonings and a perfect frying technique.

Whether served with your favorite dipping sauce or added to a meal, these homemade crispy strips are a guaranteed hit.

With a crispy coating that locks in all the juicy goodness, they’re sure to rival the original and become a go-to dish for family dinners or snack time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe For KFC Crispy Chicken Strips Recipe

• Crispy, golden chicken strips with a tender interior.
• Easy to make, perfect for family dinners.
• Flavored with KFC-inspired herbs and spices.
• Ideal for dipping in your favorite sauces.
• A homemade version of a fast-food favorite.
• Quick and simple recipe for busy weeknights.
• Perfectly crunchy exterior and juicy, tender chicken.

If you love Copycat Recipes try my recipe for Wingstop Blue Cheese Recipe, Air Fryer Popeyes Chicken Sandwich (Copycat), Air Fryer Popeyes Fried Chicken Recipe, or Copycat Popeye’s Seafood Po’Boy Recipe.

KFC Chicken Strips Recipe Ingredients

• Chicken Breast Fillets – Tender, juicy chicken for crispy strips.
• Ginger Garlic Paste – Adds aromatic, bold flavor to chicken.
• Vinegar – Tenderizes chicken and enhances flavors.
• Lemon Juice – Adds zesty, refreshing acidity to the marinade.
• Salt – Essential seasoning for balanced flavor.
• White/Black Pepper Powder – Adds mild heat and depth to the dish.
• Buttermilk – Ensures tender, juicy chicken with flavor infusion.
• Flour Mix – Combination of spices and flour for coating, including All Purpose Flour, Thyme, Basil, Oregano, Garlic Salt, Dried Mustard, Salt, Onion Powder, Ginger Powder, Black Pepper Powder, White Pepper, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper, Celery Salt
• Egg Wash: Large eggs and Kosher salt.

How To Make Copycat KFC Crispy Strips

Step One: Cut chicken breast fillets into strips. In a bowl, combine ginger garlic paste, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, white/black pepper powder, and buttermilk. Add chicken strips, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).

Step Two: In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour with thyme, basil, oregano, garlic salt, dried mustard, onion powder, ginger powder, black pepper, white pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, and celery salt. Whisk together until evenly combined.

Step Three: In a separate bowl, whisk egg whites with a pinch of salt until slightly frothy.

Step Four: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each strip in the seasoned flour mix, dip into the egg wash, then coat again in the flour mixture for an extra crispy texture.

Step Five: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken strips in batches for about 5–6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or KFC sauce. Enjoy crispy, flavorful homemade KFC-style chicken strips!

Alternative Cooking Methods, Air Fry & Frying

• Air Fryer Method: After marinating the chicken strips, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, lightly spray with cooking oil, and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.

• Pan-Frying Method: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), carefully add the breaded chicken strips and fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they achieve a crispy exterior and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

KFC Crispy Strips Recipe Tips

• Marination: KFC uses a secret blend of herbs and spices in their marinade. Look for recipes that mimic this combination, often including paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and various herbs.
• Buttermilk Bath: Soaking the chicken strips in buttermilk before dredging in flour helps tenderize the meat and adds a tangy flavor.
• Seasoned Flour: Coat the marinated chicken in seasoned flour (similar to KFC’s blend) before frying. This typically includes flour, salt, pepper, and the same herbs and spices used in the marinade for consistent flavor.
• Frying Technique: Fry the chicken in hot oil (around 350°F / 175°C) until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the oil is hot enough to crisp the coating quickly without overcooking the chicken.
• Drain Excess Oil: After frying, place the strips on a wire rack to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy your homemade crispy strips hot and fresh for the best taste and texture.

Storing

• Storing: Place cooled chicken strips in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: After cooling, arrange the strips in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container; they can be stored for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, placing the strips on a wire rack to maintain crispiness. Alternatively, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What To Serve With KFC Crispy Strips Recipe

Pairing your homemade KFC-style crispy strips with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Classic accompaniments include creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, and tangy pickled radish, which provide refreshing contrasts to the rich flavors of the chicken.

For a heartier option, consider serving mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, or baked beans to add depth and variety to your spread.

KFC Crispy Strips Recipe Faqs

What kind of chicken should I use for crispy strips? For crispy strips, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders are ideal. They cook quickly and evenly, making them perfect for crispy strips.

How do I get the coating to stick to the chicken? To get the coating to stick, dip the chicken in a seasoned flour mixture, then a wet batter (milk or buttermilk), and then coat again in the flour mixture. This double coating ensures a crispy exterior.

Can I make the coating gluten-free? Yes! You can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. You may also want to add extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.

What seasonings are used in the KFC crispy strip recipe? The KFC coating is known for its “11 herbs and spices,” though the exact recipe is here.

Can I bake the strips instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the strips for a healthier option. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Can I use buttermilk for the batter? Yes! Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the chicken, making it a great choice for the batter.

How do I keep the strips crispy after cooking? To keep the strips crispy, place them on a wire rack in the oven instead of a plate. This will allow air to circulate around the strips, keeping the coating crunchy.

Can I freeze the chicken strips before or after frying? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked strips after breading them. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for storage. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer.

How long should I fry the chicken strips? Fry the strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.

What’s the best oil for frying chicken strips? Vegetable oil or peanut oil are great options for frying chicken strips as they have a high smoke point and create a crispy, golden exterior.

More Copycat KFC Recipes

• Air Fryer KFC Fried Chicken
• KFC Copycat Potato Wedges (Air Fryer)
• KFC Honey BBQ Wings
• Air Fryer Copycat KFC Popcorn Chicken
• Air Fryer Copycat KFC Spicy Chicken Sandwich
• Air Fryer Copycat KFC Biscuits
• KFC Original Recipe Chicken (Copycat)
• Copycat KFC Honey Mustard Sauce
• Air Fryer Mashed Potatoes

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