Healthier Alternatives: Baked & Air-Fried Chicken Strips
If you want to cut back on oil, you can bake or air-fry your chicken strips while keeping them deliciously crispy.
Baked Crispy Chicken Strips
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
Arrange the breaded chicken strips on the sheet.
Spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
Air-Fried Chicken Strips
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Spray lightly with oil.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
Both methods reduce oil while keeping that satisfying crunch!
Dipping Sauce Ideas for Chicken Strips
The right sauce can take your crispy chicken strips to the next level. Here are some tasty options:
Honey Mustard Sauce – Sweet and tangy, perfect for dipping!
Garlic Parmesan Sauce – Buttery and cheesy with a hint of garlic.
Spicy Mayo – Mix mayo with hot sauce for a creamy kick.
BBQ Sauce – A smoky and sweet classic.
Sriracha Ranch – A spicy twist on regular ranch dressing.
Best Sides to Serve with Chicken Strips
Crispy French Fries – The ultimate pairing!
Fresh Garden Salad – Light and refreshing.
Pickles or Coleslaw – Adds a nice tangy crunch.
Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting.
Corn on the Cob – A sweet and buttery side.
Storage & Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat for Maximum Crispiness:
Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Avoid the Microwave! It makes them soggy.
Final Thoughts
Homemade crispy chicken strips are so much better than store-bought or fast food! They’re juicy, golden, crunchy, and full of flavor—plus, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients. Whether you deep fry, bake, or air-fry, these chicken strips will be a family favorite.
Time to Try It!
Will you make them fried, baked, or air-fried? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to tell me which dipping sauce you paired them with!
