Air Fryer Chicken Strips Recipe: 5 Steps to Crunchy Bliss

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Strips Recipe: 5 Steps to Crunchy Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken fillet, cut into strips; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup flour; 2 eggs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 9, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, let me introduce you to my go-to air fryer chicken strips recipe! Seriously, these crispy chicken strips are not just super simple to make; they’re also packed with flavor and a healthier option compared to traditional frying. The air fryer gives them that golden-brown crunch without all the oil, so you can indulge without the guilt. I whip these up on busy weeknights or when I’m hosting friends—everyone gets excited when they see the basket filled with these tasty strips!

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can customize the seasonings to match your family’s taste, and they’re perfect for dipping into your favorite sauces. Plus, they cook up in just under 15 minutes! Whether it’s a family dinner or a quick snack, this air fryer chicken strips recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, you’ll be making these over and over again!

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken fillet, cut into strips
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika

Make sure your chicken fillet is fresh and cut into even strips for consistent cooking. The breadcrumbs can be seasoned or plain, depending on your preference. I usually go for panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch, but regular ones work just as well!

How to Prepare the Air Fryer Chicken Strips Recipe

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these air fryer chicken strips! Trust me, it’s easier than you might think, and the end result is so worth it. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a plateful of crispy, golden goodness in no time!

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, let’s get that air fryer preheating! It’s crucial to start at 400°F for the best results. Preheating ensures your chicken strips cook evenly and get that irresistible crispiness. Just set your air fryer to 400°F and let it heat up while you prepare the rest. This usually takes about 5 minutes, and it’s a great time to get everything else ready!

Prepare the Breading Stations

Next up, let’s set up your breading stations. You’ll need three bowls for this step. In the first bowl, combine the flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Give it a good mix to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. In your second bowl, beat the two large eggs until they’re frothy and well combined. Finally, in the third bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs. If you’re using panko, you’re in for an extra crunchy treat!

Make sure to keep your hands dry when you’re breading the chicken—this helps the flour and breadcrumbs stick better. If you find your hands getting sticky, just rinse them off quickly!

Coating the Chicken Strips

Now comes the fun part—coating those chicken strips! Take a chicken strip and dip it into the flour mixture first, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any extra drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. If you want an extra crunch, feel free to repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating. This will give your chicken strips that delightful crunch we all love!

Cooking the Chicken Strips

Once all your chicken strips are coated, it’s time to cook! Carefully place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the basket; you want the hot air to circulate around each strip for that perfect crispy finish. Cook them at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness—your chicken should be golden brown and crispy. When they’re done, serve them hot and watch everyone dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This air fryer chicken strips recipe is ready in just 27 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Delicious Flavor: With a blend of spices like garlic powder and paprika, each bite is bursting with flavor that your family will love.
Healthier Cooking Method: Gone are the days of excess oil! The air fryer gives you that crispy texture without the guilt, keeping the calories in check.
Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty strips, making them a hit for family dinners or game day snacks.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or dips to suit your family’s taste—variety is the spice of life!

Tips for Success

To make sure your air fryer chicken strips turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings in the flour mixture to suit your taste—add a pinch of cayenne for heat or some Italian herbs for a different twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using crushed cornflakes or flavored panko for the breadcrumbs to shake things up.

For even cooking, make sure the chicken strips are spaced apart in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven browning. And don’t forget to check for doneness by cutting into one of the larger strips to ensure it’s cooked through—no one likes a rubbery bite! Lastly, serve with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo to keep everyone happy!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying delicious food, it’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s the typical nutritional breakdown per serving of these air fryer chicken strips. Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on common ingredients, so they can vary slightly depending on what you use.

Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 25g

This air fryer chicken strips recipe is not only mouthwatering but also packed with protein—perfect for fueling your day! Enjoy your guilt-free indulgence knowing that you’re treating yourself to a wholesome meal.

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken fillets?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work wonderfully for this air fryer chicken strips recipe. Just make sure to slice them into even strips, similar to the fillets. This ensures they cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown finish. If you prefer a juicier bite, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a bit of buttermilk or your favorite seasoning for an hour before coating them.

How do I make these strips even crispier?

For an extra crispy texture, you have a few options! First, consider double coating the chicken strips—after the first dip in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, go through the process again. This adds an additional layer of crunch that’s simply irresistible! Secondly, using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones can make a huge difference. Panko gives you that extra light and crispy finish that everyone loves. And if you want to take it up a notch, spray a little cooking oil over the strips before air frying; this helps them get that golden color and crunch!

What dipping sauces pair well with air fryer chicken strips?

You can’t go wrong with dipping sauces when serving these delicious air fryer chicken strips! Here are a few popular options:

Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy classic that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Ranch Dressing: Creamy and flavorful, ranch is always a hit with chicken strips!
Barbecue Sauce: Sweet or smoky, barbecue sauce adds a delightful twist.
Buffalo Sauce: For those who like a kick, spicy buffalo sauce is a fantastic choice!
Garlic Aioli: Creamy and rich, garlic aioli elevates your chicken strips to gourmet status!

Feel free to mix and match, or create your own signature sauce for a fun twist!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover air fryer chicken strips is super easy! Just let them cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store them for a longer time, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should be good for about 2 months.

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the air fryer again to keep that wonderful crunch. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, then place the chicken strips in a single layer. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method brings back that crispy texture, making them almost as good as fresh! Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy. Enjoy your chicken strips all over again!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your air fryer chicken strips, the right sides can take your meal to the next level! Here are some fantastic pairings that will complement those crispy strips perfectly:

Classic French Fries: You can’t go wrong with a side of golden fries! Whether you prefer them thick-cut, crinkle-cut, or shoestring, they’re always a hit.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the crispy chicken.
Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw make it a great companion, balancing the flavors of the chicken strips.
Vegetable Platter: Serve with a colorful assortment of fresh veggies and your favorite dip for a healthy touch.
Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked or air-fried until crispy are a delightful alternative!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a meal that suits your family’s tastes. Enjoy your delicious feast!