Crispy Chicken Strips from Shari's Cafe & Pies feature tender, juicy chicken breast coated in a golden, crunchy breading, delivering a satisfying blend of hearty flavor and crispy texture with each bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Tongs
- Mixing bowls
- Sheet pan
- Wire rack
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Meat thermometer
- Paper towels
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups plain breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Ensure the chicken breasts are boneless and skinless for even cooking and a tender bite. Use buttermilk to soak the chicken, which helps to tenderize and add moisture before breading. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano with the flour and breadcrumbs to achieve the signature flavorful crust. Maintain the vegetable oil at the right temperature for deep frying to achieve a golden, crunchy breading without greasiness. Your Crispy Chicken Strips from Shari's Cafe & Pies copycat recipe will capture the perfect balance of tender chicken and crispy texture in every bite.
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into strips using chef’s knife and cutting board.
- Pat chicken strips dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
- In another mixing bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Place breadcrumbs in a separate mixing bowl.
- Dip each chicken strip into seasoned flour to coat.
- Dip floured chicken strip into buttermilk-egg mixture.
- Dredge chicken strip in breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
- Place breaded strips on a sheet pan or wire rack.
- Preheat vegetable oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken strips in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Use tongs to remove strips and drain on paper towels.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Crispy Chicken Strips from Shari's Cafe & Pies copycat blend tender chicken breasts with a crunchy, flavorful breading that mimics the restaurant's signature taste. If buttermilk is unavailable, substitute with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar to achieve similar tenderness. Use panko breadcrumbs in place of plain breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. Make sure to monitor oil temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 350degF (175degC) to ensure even cooking and prevent greasiness. You can keep the cooked strips warm on a wire rack over a sheet pan while frying batches to maintain their crispiness.
Tips
Ensure your chicken strips are patted completely dry before breading to help the coating adhere better and prevent sogginess. Maintain the deep fryer oil temperature consistently at 350degF (175degC) to achieve a crispy, golden crust without undercooking or burning. Use a meat thermometer to verify that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. When dredging, press the breadcrumbs firmly onto each strip to create a thick, crunchy breading that stays intact during frying.
Nutritions
Crispy Chicken Strips from Shari's Cafe & Pies provide a rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, thanks to the tender chicken breast used in the recipe. The breading, made from all-purpose flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, adds carbohydrates and fat, contributing to the overall calorie content. Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika offer minimal calories but enhance flavor without adding extra sodium or sugar. When prepared using a deep fryer with vegetable oil, the strips absorb some oil, increasing fat content, so balance your portion size to fit your dietary needs.
Storage
Store any leftover crispy chicken strips in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain their texture and prevent bacterial growth. To reheat, place chicken strips on a wire rack over a sheet pan in a preheated oven at 375degF (190degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness without drying them out. Your crispy chicken strips will stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored and reheated properly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for plain breadcrumbs to achieve an extra crispy texture. Swap buttermilk with plain yogurt or sour cream for a tangier flavor and moist chicken. Instead of deep frying, bake the strips on a wire rack at 400degF (200degC) for 20-25 minutes for a healthier alternative with less oil. Adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the flour mixture will bring a smoky or spicy kick to your chicken strips.
Allergies
Crispy Chicken Strips from Shari's Cafe & Pies contain common allergens such as eggs, wheat (from all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs), and dairy (buttermilk), which may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The breading and seasoning also include garlic and onion powders, which can cause issues for those with specific food intolerances. When ordering or preparing this dish, your awareness of these ingredients can help you avoid potential allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
Shari's Cafe & Pies Crispy Chicken Strips feature a perfectly seasoned, golden-brown breading that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. The tender, juicy chicken inside pairs excellently with their signature dipping sauces, creating a balanced flavor profile that keeps customers coming back. You'll appreciate how making a copycat recipe allows you to recreate this popular dish at home, saving money while customizing flavors to your liking. This menu item is worth trying for its combination of texture, taste, and familiarity that appeals to a broad audience.