Olivia Carter
If you’re craving the delicious taste of KFC chicken strips but want a healthier alternative, look no further! With the help of an air fryer, you can create crispy, flavorful chicken strips right in your own kitchen. Not only will you save on calories and fat, but you’ll also avoid the mess and hassle of deep frying. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence.
The secret to achieving that signature KFC flavor lies in the seasoning mixture. By combining a blend of herbs and spices, you’ll be able to recreate the taste of Colonel Sanders’ secret recipe at home. The air fryer will then cook the chicken strips to perfection, giving them a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. Whether you’re serving these as a quick snack or as part of a meal, they’re sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Not only are these KFC chicken strips delicious, but they’re also incredibly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of patience, you’ll have a batch of mouthwatering chicken strips ready in no time. The air fryer cuts down on the cooking time, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re pressed for time. Plus, since there’s no need for a deep fryer, you’ll have less mess to clean up afterwards.
Benefits of Making KFC Chicken Strips in an Air Fryer
When it comes to enjoying fried chicken, KFC is often at the top of the list. However, traditional deep frying methods can be messy and unhealthy. That’s where an air fryer comes in. Using an air fryer to make KFC chicken strips offers several benefits:
1. Healthier Option
Using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed to cook the chicken strips. Traditional deep frying methods can soak the chicken in oil, adding unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats. With an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture without the excess oil, resulting in a healthier meal option.
2. Time-Saving
An air fryer cooks food faster compared to traditional deep frying methods. The hot air circulating in the fryer helps to evenly cook the chicken strips in a shorter amount of time. This means you can enjoy your KFC-style chicken strips sooner, making it a convenient and time-saving option.
3. Easy to Use and Clean
Air fryers are designed to be user-friendly, making them easy to operate even for beginners. Simply place the chicken strips in the fryer basket, set the temperature and time, and let the air fryer do its magic. Cleaning is also a breeze as most air fryer accessories are dishwasher-safe, saving you both time and effort in the kitchen.
4. Versatile Cooking Options
Not only can you make KFC-style chicken strips in an air fryer, but you can also explore various other recipes and cooking techniques. Air fryers can be used to bake, roast, grill, and even reheat food. This versatility makes it a valuable kitchen appliance that can easily replace multiple cooking devices.
In conclusion, using an air fryer to make KFC-style chicken strips offers numerous benefits. It provides a healthier cooking option, saves time, is easy to use and clean, and opens up a world of culinary possibilities. So why not give it a try and enjoy crispy, delicious chicken strips without the guilt?
Required Ingredients for Air Fryer KFC Chicken Strips
Before you start making KFC chicken strips in your air fryer, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Chicken breast fillets |
| Buttermilk |
| All-purpose flour |
| Paprika |
| Salt |
| Ground black pepper |
| Garlic powder |
| Onion powder |
| Dried thyme |
| Dried basil |
| Cayenne pepper |
| Egg |
| Oil (for spraying) |
These ingredients will give your air fryer KFC chicken strips the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Make sure you have everything on hand before you begin, so you can enjoy a delicious and crispy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making KFC Chicken Strips in an Air Fryer
Making KFC chicken strips in an air fryer is a delicious and healthier alternative to deep frying. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make crispy and flavourful chicken strips at home.
Ingredients:
| Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) | 2 |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Paprika | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Mix well.
- Cut the chicken breast into strips of about 1 inch wide.
- Place the chicken strips in the buttermilk mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator).
- In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat the chicken strips evenly with the flour mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the coated chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Drizzle vegetable oil over the chicken strips to help them get crispy.
- Cook the chicken strips in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken strips from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your homemade KFC-style chicken strips with your favorite sauce or dip!
These homemade KFC chicken strips made in an air fryer are sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious and crispy chicken. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main course!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer KFC Chicken Strips
When it comes to making KFC chicken strips in an air fryer, a few tips and tricks can make all the difference in achieving that perfect crispy and flavorful result. Here are some tips to help you master the art of making KFC chicken strips in your air fryer:
1. Use the Right Seasoning
The key to achieving that signature KFC flavor is in the seasoning. Make sure to use a blend of herbs and spices that closely matches the KFC secret recipe. While you can find various KFC copycat seasoning recipes online, experimenting with different combinations can also help you create your own unique flavor.
2. Marinate for Extra Flavor
Marinating the chicken strips in buttermilk or a seasoned brine can add moisture and flavor to the meat. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or even overnight, for an even better result. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with the flavors of the marinade.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is essential to achieving a crispy exterior on the chicken strips. Just like preheating an oven, preheating the air fryer helps to kickstart the cooking process and ensures even and consistent results. Set the air fryer to the desired temperature and allow it to preheat for a few minutes before adding the chicken.
4. Avoid Overcrowding
It’s important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket when cooking chicken strips. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation, resulting in unevenly cooked chicken. Give each strip enough space to allow hot air to circulate and cook it evenly. You may need to cook the chicken in batches if your air fryer is small.
5. Monitor the Cooking Time
Keep a close eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking the chicken strips. Every air fryer is different, so cooking times may vary slightly. It’s a good idea to start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time to prevent the chicken from becoming dry or overcooked.
6. Flip or Shake for Even Cooking
Flipping or shaking the chicken strips halfway through the cooking process can help ensure even cooking and browning. This step allows the chicken to crisp up evenly on all sides and prevents any spots from becoming overly browned or burnt.
7. Rest Before Serving
Allow the cooked chicken strips to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to lock in the juices and ensures a moist and tender result. Resting the chicken also allows the flavors to settle, resulting in a more delicious end product.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to achieve perfect KFC chicken strips in your air fryer every time. Enjoy your homemade crispy and flavorful chicken strips, and don’t forget to pair them with your favorite dipping sauces!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer KFC Chicken Strips
Once you have mastered the art of making delicious KFC chicken strips in your air fryer, it’s time to think about how to serve them to maximize their enjoyment. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:
1. Classic Dipping Sauces
No KFC experience is complete without the classic dipping sauces. Serve your air fryer KFC chicken strips with a variety of traditional sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. The tangy and savory flavors of these sauces complement the crispy and juicy chicken perfectly.
2. Fresh Side Salad
Balance out the indulgence of the fried chicken with a fresh side salad. Whip up a simple green salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of dressing. The crispness of the veggies will provide a nice contrast to the tender chicken strips.
3. Homemade Coleslaw
A classic side dish that pairs exceptionally well with KFC chicken strips is coleslaw. Make your own coleslaw by shredding cabbage and carrots, then tossing them in a creamy mayo-based dressing. The creaminess of the coleslaw will complement the crunchy texture of the chicken.
4. Biscuits or Cornbread
No KFC meal is complete without some form of bread. Serve your air fryer KFC chicken strips with warm, buttery biscuits or homemade cornbread. The soft and flaky texture of the biscuits or cornbread will be a delightful addition to your meal.
5. French Fries
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food pairing, serve your air fryer KFC chicken strips with a side of crispy French fries. The combination of crispy chicken and golden fries is a match made in fast-food heaven.
Remember, these are just suggestions, and you can get creative with your own accompaniments. Whether you serve your KFC chicken strips with classic sides or experiment with new flavors, the most important thing is to enjoy your delicious homemade meal!
FAQ
What ingredients do I need to make KFC chicken strips in an air fryer?
To make KFC chicken strips in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients: boneless chicken breasts, flour, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
How do I prepare the chicken before cooking it in the air fryer?
Before cooking the chicken in the air fryer, you need to start by cutting the boneless chicken breasts into strips. Then, you should season the chicken strips with salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Let the chicken marinate in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes.
What is the cooking time and temperature for KFC chicken strips in an air fryer?
The cooking time and temperature for KFC chicken strips in an air fryer may vary depending on the model and size of the air fryer. However, a general guideline is to cook the chicken strips at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. It is important to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
