Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips are one of my favorite dishes to make when I want something quick and delicious. The best part is how crispy they get without needing to fry them in a ton of oil. I discovered this recipe one evening when I was craving a crunchy snack but didn’t want to deal with the mess of deep frying. As soon as I tasted the first bite, I knew I had found a winner. Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips are so easy to make, and they always come out golden and perfectly crisp.
Making It Simple
I wanted to keep the recipe simple, so I used just a few ingredients for the breading flour, breadcrumbs, and a bit of seasoning. The magic happens when you coat each chicken strip evenly and place them in the air fryer. The heat circulates around them, creating a crispy layer that’s hard to beat. I love how the chicken stays juicy on the inside while the outside gets that satisfying crunch. Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips are also healthier than the traditional fried version, which is a huge bonus.
A Family Favorite
Over time, Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips have become a family favorite. My kids love them as a snack, and they’re great for lunch or dinner too. I like to serve them with different dipping sauces, depending on my mood—sometimes barbecue, sometimes ranch, or even a spicy mayo. It’s so versatile, and everyone enjoys them. The best part is how little time it takes to make a batch. It’s perfect for busy days when I don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen but still want something tasty.
Tips for the Best Results
To make the Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips even better, I always make sure to spray a little cooking oil on them before cooking. This helps them crisp up beautifully. Also, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as each strip needs room for the air to circulate around it. If you follow these simple tips, you’ll have Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips that are golden, crunchy, and just perfect every time.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips
- Soaking Chickpeas: Make sure to soak the chickpeas overnight or for at least 8 hours. This is key to making the falafel hold together well and gives them a better texture when frying. If you’re short on time, use canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed), but soaking gives the best result.
- Food Processor Technique: When blending the falafel ingredients, pulse them instead of fully blending. You want the mixture to be finely chopped but not pureed, keeping some texture for a nice bite in the final falafel.
- Falafel Ball Shape: Use wet hands to shape the falafel balls. This helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands and ensures even, smooth balls. If the mixture feels too wet, add a little extra flour to help it bind.
- Frying Temperature: Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C) before frying. If the oil is too cool, the falafel will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they might burn before fully cooking inside. Test with a small piece of falafel to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
- Air Fryer Option: For a healthier, lower-fat version, consider using an air fryer to cook the falafel. Follow your air fryer’s specific instructions, typically at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Tahini Dressing Consistency: The tahini dressing should be smooth and pourable. If it’s too thick, add more cold water a teaspoon at a time until you reach the right consistency. A bit of lemon juice can also enhance the tanginess.
- Wrap Customization: Feel free to add more toppings based on your preferences—sliced avocado, feta cheese, or even a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor. Pickled vegetables and fresh herbs like cilantro or dill also add great variety.
- Meal Prep Tip: The falafel mixture can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. You can also bake the falafel in the oven at 375°F for about 20 minutes if you prefer a less oily option.
- Storage: If you have leftover falafel, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to keep them crispy. The tahini dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips
4
servings10
minutes15
minutes279
kcal25
minutesExperience the perfect blend of crunch and juiciness with these crispy air fryer chicken strips! Inspired by top chefs, this recipe delivers tender inside and a golden, flavorful coating every time. Quick to prepare and ideal for any meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack. Customize with your favorite dipping sauces for a versatile and delicious treat. Elevate your home-cooked meals with this easy and mouthwatering chicken strip recipe!
Ingredients
- Coating Mix
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp seasoned salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
- Batter
1 large egg
- Main Ingredient
chicken strips
- Alternative Ingredients:
All-purpose flour: Use almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Paprika: Substitute with chili powder for a spicier flavor.
Parsley flakes: Replace with dried cilantro for a different herb profile.
Seasoned salt: Use regular salt with added garlic powder as an alternative.
Large egg: Substitute with flax egg for a vegan option.
Cooking spray: Use olive oil spray as a healthier alternative.
Directions
- Preheating the Air Fryer – Start by setting your air fryer to 400°F and allow it to heat up as per the manufacturer’s guidelines, usually taking about 3 minutes. This ensures the chicken strips cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
- Preparing the Coating – In a sizable mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, smoked paprika, dried parsley, seasoned salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the egg until smooth. This combination creates a flavorful crust that adheres beautifully to the chicken.
- Coating the Chicken – Take each chicken tender and first dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring a light, even coating. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off before returning it to the flour mixture for a second coating layer. This double coating enhances the crispiness.
- Cooking the Strips – Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated chicken strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Lightly mist the tops of the strips with additional cooking spray for extra crunch.
- Air Frying – Cook the chicken tenders in the preheated air fryer for 8 minutes. After this time, flip each strip and spray the tops again with cooking spray. Continue cooking for another 7-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy. Repeat the process with any remaining strips. Optional: For an extra crispy finish, broil the tenders for 1-2 minutes after air frying.
Equipment
- air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- instant read thermometer
Notes
- For the crispiest chicken strips, ensure the air fryer basket is not overcrowded, allowing hot air to circulate freely around each piece. Serve these strips with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli to cater to different taste preferences. Pair them with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal. To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for a few hours before coating. Additionally, experimenting with different spices in the coating mix can add a unique twist to this classic recipe.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 279kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Vitamin A: 150IU
- Vitamin C: 2mg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ- Crispy Air-Fried Chicken Strips
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch for a crispier texture.
Can I prepare the chicken strips in advance?
Absolutely! Coat the chicken strips and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 hours before air frying. This saves time and allows the flavors to develop.
What can I use if I don’t have an air fryer?
Bake the chicken strips in a preheated oven at 425°F on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Spray the chicken with cooking spray and bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why isn’t my chicken crispy?
Make sure the air fryer is preheated, avoid overcrowding the basket, and generously spray the chicken with cooking spray before cooking. Using a fresh coating mix also ensures crispiness.
Can I freeze cooked chicken strips?
Yes, allow the cooked chicken strips to cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. Reheat in the air fryer for 8–10 minutes until crispy.
