Chicken fries are a beloved snack that combines the crispy crunch of French fries with tender, juicy chicken strips. Whether you’re craving a quick bite for game day or a fun dinner treat, making chicken fries at home is easier than you think. In this article, I’ll walk you through a friendly, step-by-step guide to making irresistible chicken fries from scratch. Let’s get frying!
What Are Chicken Fries?
Chicken fries are long, thin strips of chicken breast that are breaded and fried until golden and crispy. They’re shaped like fries, making them perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. Unlike regular chicken nuggets or tenders, chicken fries have a unique shape and texture that makes them extra fun to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a simple list of ingredients to get started:
– Chicken breast (about 1.5 pounds) – sliced into fry-shaped strips
– Buttermilk – for marinating and tenderizing
– Seasonings – garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, dried herbs, and bouillon powder for flavor
– Flour – all-purpose for breading
– Eggs – to help the breading stick
– Panko breadcrumbs – for that perfect crispy coating
– Oil – vegetable or canola oil for frying (high smoke point oils are best)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Fries
1. Prep and Marinate the Chicken
Start by slicing your chicken breasts into long, thin strips about ⅓ inch wide, resembling fries. In a bowl, mix buttermilk with salt, pepper, hot sauce (optional for a kick), onion powder, garlic powder, and bouillon powder. Add the chicken strips to this marinade, making sure they’re well coated. Let them soak in the fridge for about an hour. This step makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls:
– Bowl 1: Mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, cayenne pepper, white pepper, salt, and bouillon powder.
– Bowl 2: Beat eggs until smooth.
– Bowl 3: Fill with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
3. Bread the Chicken Fries
Remove the chicken strips from the marinade. First, coat each strip evenly in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully covered. This triple coating ensures a crispy, golden crust.
4. Fry the Chicken Fries
Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to about 350°F (177°C). Carefully place the chicken fries in the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each batch for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to soak up excess oil.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your homemade chicken fries hot with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch, or spicy aioli. They make a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a main dish alongside fries or coleslaw.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Fries
– Use chicken breast or tenderloins for the best fry shape and texture.
– Marinate the chicken in buttermilk to keep it juicy and tender.
– Don’t skip the panko breadcrumbs — they add that unbeatable crunch.
– Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
– Use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even heating and avoid greasy fries.
– Let the fries rest on paper towels after frying to drain excess oil.
Variations to Try
– Baked Chicken Fries: For a healthier twist, bake the breaded chicken fries on a parchment-lined tray at 425°F until crispy, about 15-20 minutes.
– Spicy Chicken Fries: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breading mix for a spicy kick.
– Garlic Aioli Dip: Whip up a simple garlic aioli by mixing mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a delicious dipping sauce.
Making chicken fries at home is a fun and tasty way to enjoy this fast-food favorite without leaving your kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch that’s crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Enjoy your homemade chicken fries with friends and family — they’re sure to be a hit!