How To Make Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Strips That Will Rival Any Restaurant

Craving crispy, juicy grilled chicken strips without firing up the grill? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! This innovative appliance allows you to achieve restaurant-quality chicken strips with minimal effort. Follow our step-by-step guide on how to air fry grilled chicken strips and elevate your culinary skills to new heights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

1. Cut the chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into strips approximately 1-inch wide.
2. Season the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat evenly.
3. Marinate the chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This step enhances the flavor and tenderness.

Air Frying the Chicken Strips

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 5 minutes.
2. Place the chicken strips: Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook the chicken: Air fry the chicken strips for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
4. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature of the chicken strips has reached 165°F (74°C).

Enhancing the Flavor

• Grilled flavor: To impart a grilled flavor, brush the chicken strips with a mixture of olive oil and barbecue sauce before air frying.
• Spicy kick: For a zesty twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the seasoning mix.
• Herbacious notes: Incorporate fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme into the marinade for added depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping sauces: Serve the air-fried chicken strips with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
• Salads and wraps: Add the chicken strips to salads or wraps for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
• Main course: Air-fried chicken strips make for a satisfying main course when paired with sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta salad.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh chicken: For the best results, use fresh chicken breasts that have not been frozen.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Shake the basket: Shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time helps prevent the chicken strips from sticking together and promotes even browning.
• Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken strips are cooked through to prevent undercooking or overcooking.

In a nutshell: Unleash the Culinary Artist Within

With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped to air fry perfectly tender and juicy grilled chicken strips. Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to customize the flavor profile and impress your friends and family. Happy air frying!

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use frozen chicken strips in the air fryer?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken strips in the air fryer. However, they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Q: What is the best dipping sauce for air-fried chicken strips?
A: The best dipping sauce depends on your personal preference. Some popular options include honey mustard, ranch, and barbecue sauce.

Q: Can I store leftover air-fried chicken strips?
A: Yes, you can store leftover air-fried chicken strips in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven before serving.