How to Make Spicy Chicken Strips Like a Pro – Step-by-Step

Craving something crispy, juicy, and packed with bold flavors? These Spicy Chicken Strips are the ultimate snack or meal, delivering the perfect balance of crunch and heat. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking to elevate your homemade chicken game, this recipe will show you how to make crispy, restaurant-quality spicy chicken strips right in your kitchen.

With a flavorful buttermilk marinade, a crunchy seasoned coating, and a variety of cooking methods—deep-fried, baked, or air-fried—you’ll get the perfect crispy texture every time. Plus, they pair wonderfully with cooling dips like ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Ready to make the best spicy chicken strips like a pro? Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating these irresistible bites!

Why You’ll Love These Spicy Chicken Strips

Spicy chicken strips are a fan-favorite for a reason—they combine bold flavors, crispy textures, and a satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a game night snack, or a meal prep option, these chicken strips are sure to be a hit. Here’s why you’ll love them:

Crispy, Crunchy Texture with a Spicy Kick

One of the best things about homemade spicy chicken strips is their perfectly crispy coating. The secret lies in the double-dredging technique, which creates a crunchy outer layer that locks in the juiciness of the chicken. The added kick from cayenne pepper, paprika, and hot sauce makes every bite bold and flavorful. Whether you prefer a mild heat or an intense fiery crunch, this recipe is easily adjustable to suit your spice tolerance.

Looking for the perfect side to go with your spicy chicken strips? You can make crispy fries using the same method from our Chicken Tenders and Fries guide.

Perfect for Snacking, Parties, or Game Nights

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun, shareable dish? Spicy chicken strips are the ultimate finger food! They’re easy to serve, dip, and enjoy, making them perfect for:

• Game day gatherings – Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dip.
• Family movie nights – Serve with crispy fries or onion rings.
• Party platters – Offer a variety of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.
• Quick lunch or dinner – Serve with a side salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Easy to Make with Simple Pantry Ingredients

You don’t need any fancy ingredients to whip up a batch of these homemade spicy chicken strips. With common kitchen staples like flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, buttermilk, and a few spices, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, you can customize the seasoning to match your preferences—add more cayenne for extra heat or balance it out with a touch of honey for sweetness.

Can Be Fried, Baked, or Air-Fried for a Healthier Option

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility—you can cook these spicy chicken strips in multiple ways depending on your preference:

• Deep Frying: For restaurant-style crunch, frying in hot oil gives the crispiest results.
• Baking: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, baking with a light drizzle of oil still delivers a crispy texture with less fat.
• Air Frying: A low-oil, guilt-free option that still results in crunchy, golden-brown chicken strips.

No matter which method you choose, you’ll get tender, juicy chicken wrapped in a crispy, spicy coating—making every bite irresistible!

Ingredients for the Best Spicy Chicken Strips

To make the crispiest, most flavorful spicy chicken strips, you’ll need a combination of tender chicken, a rich marinade, bold seasonings, and the perfect crunchy coating. Here’s everything you need to bring out the best in this recipe.

Main Ingredients: Choosing the Best Chicken for Spicy Strips

The foundation of great spicy chicken strips starts with selecting the right cut of chicken.

• Chicken Breast: The most common choice, chicken breast is lean, tender, and easy to slice into uniform strips.
• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer juicier and more flavorful strips, opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They have a higher fat content, making them more forgiving and extra juicy.

💡 Pro Tip: For extra juicy chicken strips, slice the chicken against the grain into even pieces. This ensures tenderness and prevents them from becoming chewy.

Spices & Seasonings: Building the Heat and Flavor

The spice blend is what gives these spicy chicken strips their signature kick. Here’s a breakdown of the essential seasonings:

• Cayenne Pepper: The main heat source—adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
• Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Garlic Powder: Brings a savory depth and balances out the heat.
• Onion Powder: Complements the garlic for a well-rounded seasoning profile.
• Black Pepper & Salt: Essential for enhancing the overall taste and ensuring well-seasoned chicken.

🌶️ Want it spicier? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot chili powder for extra fire.

Coating Options: How to Achieve the Perfect Crunch

The key to crispy, golden-brown chicken strips lies in the coating. Here are the best options:

• All-Purpose Flour: A classic choice that creates a crisp, golden crust.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds an extra layer of crunch for a lighter, airy texture.
• Crushed Cornflakes: If you love extra crispy chicken strips, cornflakes provide an ultra-crunchy bite.
• Buttermilk & Egg Wash: Helps the coating stick to the chicken while keeping the inside moist and tender.

💡 Pro Tip: Double-dip the chicken (flour → buttermilk → flour) for an extra thick, crunchy coating!

Dipping Sauces: The Perfect Pairings for Spicy Chicken Strips

A great dipping sauce can balance the heat and enhance the flavor of your chicken strips. Here are some delicious options:

• Ranch Dressing: A cooling classic that tones down the heat.
• Blue Cheese Dip: Perfect for a creamy, tangy contrast.
• Honey Mustard: A sweet and spicy combo that complements the crispy texture.
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo: For those who love an extra spicy kick.
• Garlic Parmesan Sauce: A savory, buttery dip that pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.

🔥 Want a homemade touch? Mix ½ cup mayo, 1 tbsp hot sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a quick and easy spicy aioli dip!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Spicy Chicken Strips

Making crispy spicy chicken strips is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll achieve perfect results every time—whether you choose to fry, bake, or air fry your chicken. From marinating for maximum flavor to coating the chicken for that signature crunch, here’s everything you need to know.

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

To achieve juicy, flavorful spicy chicken strips, marinating the chicken is a key step that shouldn’t be skipped. The marinade softens the meat and enhances its flavor.

• Buttermilk and Hot Sauce Marinade for Juicy Chicken:
  Start by combining buttermilk and hot sauce (such as Sriracha or your favorite brand) in a bowl. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and gives it that rich, juicy texture. The hot sauce adds heat and depth of flavor, perfectly complementing the crispy coating. You can adjust the amount of hot sauce to match your spice tolerance. For extra depth, consider adding a touch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy kick.
• Ideal Marination Time for the Best Results:
  For the most flavorful chicken strips, let your chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, though 1-2 hours is ideal. For the best results, marinating overnight in the fridge will allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful strip.

Creating the Crispy Coating

The coating is what gives these chicken strips their signature crispy crunch, so it’s important to get it just right.

• Proper Flour and Spice Mixture for a Crunchy Texture:
  Start by mixing all-purpose flour with your choice of seasonings. Add paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful spice blend. The paprika will give the chicken a nice color and mild smokiness, while the cayenne pepper delivers that spicy kick. You can adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference. If you like an extra crispy texture, add some cornstarch to the flour mixture for an even crunchier coating.
• Best Way to Coat the Chicken for Even Crispiness:
  Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to coat it. First, remove each chicken strip from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Next, dredge the chicken in the flour and spice mixture, ensuring an even coating. For an extra crispy exterior, double-dip the chicken: first into the flour, then back into the marinade, and once more into the flour mixture. This double layer of coating will help lock in moisture and give you that perfect, crunchy crust.

Cooking Methods: Frying, Baking, or Air Frying

You have a few options for cooking your spicy chicken strips, each offering a different texture and level of crispiness. Select the method that fits your preference.

• Deep Frying for Restaurant-Style Crunch:
  Deep frying is the classic method for achieving the crispiest, most decadent chicken strips. Heat vegetable oil (or another high-heat oil like peanut oil) in a deep fryer or large pot to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the coated chicken strips into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the strips for 4-5 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. The oil creates a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
• Healthier Alternatives: Baking and Air Frying:
  For a healthier alternative, you can bake or air fry your chicken strips.
  • Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated chicken strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken for an even cook. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the coating turns crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.
  • Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) before cooking. Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. The air fryer provides a crispy texture with less oil, making it a great choice for those looking to reduce calories without sacrificing crunch.

How to Tell When Your Chicken Strips Are Perfectly Cooked

Cooking chicken to the right doneness is crucial for both flavor and safety. Here’s how to make sure your spicy chicken strips are perfectly cooked:

• Internal Temperature for Safe and Juicy Chicken:
  The internal temperature of your chicken strips should reach at least 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked and safe to eat. Check the temperature at the thickest part of the strip using a meat thermometer.
• Visual and Texture Indicators for Doneness:
  In addition to using a thermometer, you can also look for golden brown and crispy coating. If you gently press on the chicken, it should feel firm but juicy on the inside. If you’re unsure, always use a thermometer to double-check, as undercooked chicken can be a health risk.

Best Dipping Sauces for Spicy Chicken Strips

One of the best things about spicy chicken strips is that they offer the perfect canvas for a variety of dipping sauces. Whether you prefer something cooling to balance out the heat or crave an extra layer of flavor with a sweet kick, there’s a dipping sauce that pairs perfectly with these crispy, juicy strips. Here are some of the best sauce options that will elevate your spicy chicken experience!

For an unbeatable dipping sauce that complements these spicy chicken strips, try our unbeatable Raising Cane’s Sauce. It’s a perfect match for any fried chicken dish!

Cooling Sauces – Ranch, Blue Cheese

Ranch and blue cheese are two classic dipping sauces that have become staples when it comes to chicken strips, especially spicy ones. Their creamy, cool texture is the perfect contrast to the heat from the spicy chicken strips.

• Ranch Dressing: The mild, herby flavors in ranch dressing provide a soothing balance to the spiciness of the chicken. The creamy texture cools down the mouth while complementing the crispy coating on the chicken. For an added twist, you can infuse your ranch with a little bit of garlic powder or chives for extra flavor.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: If you enjoy a tangier, sharper dip, blue cheese dressing is the way to go. The rich, bold flavors of blue cheese cut through the heat, creating a delicious balance that’s perfect for those who love the tanginess it offers. It’s especially great if you’re looking for a more savory, gourmet pairing with your spicy strips.

Sweet & Spicy Options – Honey Mustard, Sriracha Mayo

If you’re a fan of complex flavor profiles, then sweet and spicy dips are a must-try. The combination of sweetness and heat will bring a new level of excitement to your spicy chicken strips.

• Honey Mustard: The sweetness of honey combined with the sharp tang of mustard is a winning combo that pairs perfectly with the heat from your spicy chicken strips. This sauce provides a smooth, creamy texture that complements the crispy strips while adding a touch of sweetness that helps to balance the spiciness. It’s the perfect choice if you’re craving something with a bit of sugar and tang.
• Sriracha Mayo: For those who love a more intense heat, sriracha mayo is an excellent option. The creamy richness of mayo pairs beautifully with the fiery kick of sriracha, creating a sauce that is both spicy and creamy. This sauce is ideal for those who want their chicken strips to have an added layer of heat and creamy texture. You can also add a squeeze of lime to the mix for a citrusy zing that cuts through the richness.

Homemade Spicy Garlic Aioli Recipe

For those who enjoy a bit of garlicky flavor with a spicy punch, this homemade spicy garlic aioli is the perfect choice. This creamy, flavorful dip enhances the crispy chicken strips with a bold garlic kick and a tangy, spicy undertone.

Ingredients for Spicy Garlic Aioli:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (or more for extra heat)
• 1-2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and minced garlic.
2. Add the lemon juice and olive oil, stirring until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Want it spicier? Simply add more sriracha to suit your taste!
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Serve with your spicy chicken strips and enjoy the rich, spicy, garlicky goodness!

This homemade spicy garlic aioli adds a perfect creamy and garlicky contrast to your spicy chicken strips, making it an irresistible option for anyone who loves bold flavors.

Pro Tips for Perfect Spicy Chicken Strips Every Time

Making spicy chicken strips at home can be easy, but getting them perfectly crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor requires a few pro tips. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, these tips will ensure you get the best results every time. Let’s take a closer look at how to make sure your chicken strips are always a hit!

Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken

When making spicy chicken strips, the cut of chicken you choose plays a significant role in the final texture and flavor. While chicken breast is the most commonly used cut for strips, you can also try chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender bite. Here’s the difference:

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and mild in flavor, chicken breasts tend to be slightly drier but are perfect for achieving a crispy texture. They are ideal if you want your chicken strips to be low-fat.
• Chicken Thighs: Thighs have more fat and flavor, making them more moist and juicy. If you prefer a richer taste and tenderness, this might be the perfect option for you.

Additionally, ensure that your chicken pieces are uniform in size. This will help them cook evenly and maintain that perfect crispy coating.

How to Make the Spice Level Customizable

The beauty of spicy chicken strips lies in the ability to control the heat level. You can adjust the spice to suit your taste or even make different batches with varying heat intensities. Here are a few tips:

• For Mild Spice: Use a small amount of paprika and cayenne pepper, or opt for a milder hot sauce (like Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot).
• For Medium Spice: Increase the amount of cayenne and chili powder or use a chipotle hot sauce for a smoky heat.
• For Extra Heat: If you love a spicy punch, ghost pepper powder or habanero sauce will turn up the heat dramatically!
  For an added dimension, you can mix in some honey or brown sugar to balance the heat with a touch of sweetness, creating a sweet-and-spicy flavor profile.

Avoiding Soggy Coating & Keeping Them Crispy Longer

One of the biggest challenges when making crispy chicken strips is ensuring they stay crunchy for longer, especially if you’re planning to serve them at a later time. Here’s how to avoid sogginess and keep your coating crispy:

• Use a Panko Breadcrumb Coating: Panko breadcrumbs provide an extra crunch. They’re lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken strips that perfect crispiness.
• Double-Coat the Chicken: For an even thicker, crunchier crust, consider dipping the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, then in beaten egg, followed by another dip in the breadcrumbs. This double coating creates a thicker layer and helps prevent sogginess.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: Ensure your oil is at the proper temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) for frying. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb more oil, making the coating soggy. A thermometer will help you achieve the perfect frying temperature.
• Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. This lowers the oil temperature and can result in a greasy, soggy crust.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers Properly

If you happen to have leftover spicy chicken strips, you’ll want to store and reheat them in a way that maintains their crispy texture. Here’s how:

• Storing Leftovers: After the chicken strips have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container. Make sure to place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture and prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.
• Reheating in the Oven: To get that crispy texture back, reheat your chicken strips in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Place them on a baking rack if you have one, so air can circulate around them, ensuring they crisp up again.
• Reheating in the Air Fryer: The air fryer is another great option for reheating because it restores the crispy coating without drying out the chicken. Heat the strips at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes or until they’re warmed through and crispy again.
• Avoid the Microwave: While it’s tempting, microwaving can make your chicken strips soggy and rubbery. For the best texture, stick to oven or air fryer reheating methods.

Nutritional Information and Health Tips for Spicy Chicken Strips

When preparing spicy chicken strips, it’s important to consider their nutritional value, especially if you’re looking to create a balanced meal. While fried foods are typically high in fat and calories, there are ways to make your chicken strips a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor.

For detailed nutritional insights, tips on making healthier versions of fried dishes, or learning how to balance fat and calorie content in your meals, check out Nutrition.gov. They offer evidence-based information and suggestions for healthier cooking, as well as ideas for modifying your recipes based on dietary needs such as low-fat, low-sodium, or gluten-free.

For instance, you could swap traditional frying for air frying or opt for a lighter breading mix to reduce calories and fat. Pairing your spicy chicken strips with nutrient-rich vegetables or whole grains can also add fiber and essential vitamins to the dish, making it a well-rounded meal.

By understanding the nutritional value of your ingredients and making simple adjustments, you can enjoy your spicy chicken strips guilt-free!

Conclusion:

There you have it – the ultimate guide to making spicy chicken strips like a pro! Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a quick dinner, a party snack, or a satisfying meal, these crispy, spicy strips are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With a few simple ingredients, a bit of marination, and the right techniques, you’ll be able to create the perfect flavor-packed chicken strips every time.

Now that you know how to achieve that perfect crunch, customize your spice level, and keep your coating crispy, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills.

Chef’s Note:

For the best results, don’t rush the marination process. The longer the chicken sits in the buttermilk and hot sauce mixture, the more tender and flavorful it will be. And remember, don’t be afraid to experiment with your spice blend – everyone has a different heat tolerance, so tailor the seasoning to your taste! Whether you love a mild kick or crave a fiery bite, these spicy chicken strips are versatile enough for any palate. Enjoy!

FAQ: Spicy Chicken Strips

Spicy Chicken Strips recipe

Sarah

This Spicy Chicken Strips recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken strips coated in a spicy, crunchy exterior. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk and hot sauce, then coated with a seasoned flour mixture before being fried to perfection. Served with tangy dipping sauces like ranch, sriracha mayo, and honey mustard, these strips are the ultimate comfort food with a kick.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

1h 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 475 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken Strips:

• 2 lbs chicken breasts cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce or to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably panko
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

For Dipping Sauces:

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey for a sweet kick

Instructions

 

Marinate the Chicken:

• In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Mix well.
• Add the chicken strips to the bowl, ensuring they are completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for extra flavor).

Prepare the Coating:

• In a separate shallow bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
• For extra crispy strips, you can double-dip by dipping the marinated chicken first into the flour mixture, back into the buttermilk, and then into the flour mixture again.

Fry the Chicken Strips:

• Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.
• Carefully place the coated chicken strips into the hot oil. Fry in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
• Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Make the Dipping Sauces:

• While the chicken is frying, mix together ranch dressing, sriracha sauce, and honey in a small bowl to create a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.

Drain and Serve:

• Remove the chicken strips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• Serve the hot, crispy chicken strips with your homemade dipping sauces on the side.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 475 kcal
• Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Potassium: 400mg
• Iron: 10% of the daily value
• Vitamin A: 8% of the daily value
• Calcium: 6% of the daily value

Keyword Americana chicken, crispy fried chicken, homemade fried chicken, comfort food, southern fried chicken, easy fried chicken recipe, Best Dipping Sauces, Crispy Chicken Tenders, Spicy Chicken Strips

1. Can I use frozen chicken strips for this recipe?

While fresh chicken is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen chicken strips if necessary. Just ensure they’re fully thawed before marinating and coating. If using store-bought frozen chicken strips, keep in mind that they may have a different texture or seasoning, which might not match the flavor profile of your homemade spicy chicken strips.

2. How can I make these chicken strips gluten-free?

To make gluten-free spicy chicken strips, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like rice flour or gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Make sure your hot sauce and other seasonings are gluten-free as well to maintain the recipe’s integrity.

3. Can I bake these spicy chicken strips instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative to frying and will still yield delicious, crispy chicken strips. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken strips on a baking rack (to allow airflow), and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will give you that crisp texture without the oil.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover spicy chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture. For best results, reheat in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.

5. Can I make the spice level milder for kids?

Yes! If you’re making these for kids or someone who prefers a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne and chili powder in the seasoning. You can also use a mild hot sauce or skip the hot sauce entirely and rely on paprika and garlic powder for flavor without the heat.

6. What dipping sauces go best with spicy chicken strips?

Spicy chicken strips pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Ranch, blue cheese, or a tangy honey mustard are popular choices. For those who like an extra kick, try a sriracha mayo or spicy garlic aioli for a creamy and spicy dip.