Crispy Frozen Chicken Strips in Air Fryer in 15 Minute
Craving perfectly crispy chicken strips without the hassle? These frozen chicken strips in air fryer deliver restaurant-quality results in just minutes! There’s something magical about hearing that satisfying crunch when you bite into golden-brown chicken that’s tender and juicy inside.
Much like our popular air fryer chicken thighs recipe, this dish proves that convenience doesn’t mean compromising on flavor. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids after school or need a protein-packed dinner solution, these strips are your answer to quick, delicious meals that everyone will love.
What Are Frozen Chicken Strips in Air Fryer?
Ever wondered why we call them “strips” when they’re basically chicken’s answer to french fries? These bite-sized pieces of breaded chicken are frozen for convenience and transformed into crispy perfection using hot air circulation.
Here’s a fun fact: the first frozen chicken strips were created in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until air fryers came along that we could achieve that perfect crunch at home! As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these strips are definitely a shortcut to everyone’s heart. Ready to become the hero of dinnertime?
Why You’ll Love This Frozen Chicken Strips Recipe
Incredibly Quick and Convenient
Transform frozen chicken strips in Air Fryer into a golden, crispy masterpiece in under 15 minutes! No thawing required – just straight from freezer to air fryer. The hot air circulation creates that coveted crunchy exterior while keeping the meat incredibly tender and juicy inside.
Budget-Friendly Family Favorite
Making frozen chicken strips at home costs a fraction of restaurant prices while feeding the whole family. You can buy them in bulk and always have a reliable dinner option ready. The air fryer method uses 80% less oil than traditional frying, making it healthier and more economical.
Endless Flavor Possibilities
These versatile strips pair beautifully with countless dipping sauces – from classic honey mustard to spicy buffalo sauce. The neutral flavor profile makes them perfect for picky eaters while satisfying adventurous palates. Similar to our air fryer fish sticks recipe, they’re a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Ready to create your new go-to dinner? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Frozen Chicken Strips in Air Fryer
Quick Overview
This foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality Frozen chicken strips in Air Fryer with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The air fryer’s rapid air circulation creates an incredibly crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist and tender inside.
Total Time: 12-15 minutes
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-13 minutes
- Serves: 3-4 people
Key Ingredients for Frozen Chicken Strips
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound frozen breaded chicken strips
- Cooking spray (optional, for extra crispiness)
For Enhanced Flavor (Optional):
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt
Serving Suggestions:
- Your favorite dipping sauces
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness from the first minute.
Step 2: Arrange the Frozen Strips Place frozen chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding – work in batches if necessary. Leave space between each strip for proper air circulation.
Step 3: Optional Seasoning Lightly spray strips with cooking spray if desired, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper for extra flavor enhancement.
Step 4: Air Fry the First Side Cook for 5-6 minutes without flipping. The bottom side will develop a beautiful golden crust during this time.
Step 5: Flip and Continue Cooking Carefully flip each strip using tongs. Cook for an additional 4-7 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Check for Doneness Test the largest strip with a meat thermometer. The exterior should be crispy and golden, while the interior should be steaming hot and fully cooked.
Step 7: Rest and Serve Let strips rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and prevents burning your tongue on molten-hot chicken!
What to Serve Frozen Chicken Strips With
Classic Sides:
- Crispy french fries or sweet potato fries
- Creamy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast
- Mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort combo
- Fresh garden salad with ranch dressing
Healthy Options:
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots
- Quinoa pilaf with herbs
- Steamed rice with a squeeze of lemon
- Air-fried Brussels sprouts
Dipping Sauce Paradise:
- Honey mustard for sweet and tangy flavor
- Buffalo sauce for heat lovers
- Ranch dressing – the classic choice
- BBQ sauce for smoky sweetness
- Sriracha mayo for a spicy kick
Top Tips for Perfecting Frozen Chicken Strips
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Give each strip breathing room! Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and soggy spots. Cook in batches if you’re feeding a crowd – the results are worth the extra few minutes.
Skip the Thawing Step
Cook directly from frozen for the best texture. Thawed strips can become mushy and lose their crispy coating integrity during cooking.
Flip Carefully
Use tongs instead of a spatula to flip strips. This prevents the breading from sticking to your utensils and ensures the coating stays intact.
Check Internal Temperature
Always verify that chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. Different brands may have varying cooking times, so a thermometer is your best friend.
Experiment with Seasonings
Try different spice blends before cooking: Italian seasoning, cajun spices, or even parmesan cheese for extra flavor depth.
Avoid Opening the Air Fryer Too Often
Resist the urge to check constantly – opening the basket releases heat and can result in uneven cooking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage Guidelines
Refrigerator Storage: Cooked chicken strips stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let them cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
Freezer Storage: While best enjoyed fresh, cooked strips can be frozen for up to 2 months in freezer-safe bags. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Instructions
Air Fryer Method (Recommended): Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Oven Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and reheat for 5-7 minutes on a wire rack for crispiness.
Microwave (Quick Option): Heat for 30-45 seconds, though this will soften the coating slightly.
Pro Tip: Never reheat chicken strips more than once for food safety reasons.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4 strips) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280-320 |
| Protein | 18-22g |
| Carbohydrates | 16-20g |
| Fat | 16-20g |
| Sodium | 480-580mg |
| Fiber | 1-2g |
Note: Nutritional values vary by brand and preparation method
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you cook frozen chicken strips in an air fryer?
Cook frozen chicken strips at 400°F (200°C) for 10-13 minutes total, flipping halfway through. Always check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Do I need to thaw frozen chicken strips before air frying?
No! Cook them straight from frozen for the best results. Thawing can make the coating soggy and affect the final texture.
Can I cook different brands of frozen chicken strips the same way?
Cooking times may vary slightly between brands due to size and coating differences. Start with the recommended time and adjust as needed, always checking internal temperature.
Why are my chicken strips not crispy enough?
Ensure you’re not overcrowding the basket, preheat the air fryer properly, and consider using a light spray of oil for extra crispiness. Some brands naturally crisp better than others.
Can I season frozen chicken strips before cooking?
Yes! Light seasoning works great, but avoid heavy wet marinades that can make the coating soggy. Dry seasonings and a light oil spray work best.
What’s the best temperature for cooking frozen chicken strips in an air fryer?
400°F (200°C) is the optimal temperature for achieving crispy exteriors while ensuring the chicken cooks thoroughly and safely.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Handle strips gently with tongs, don’t overcrowd the basket, and avoid moving them too much during cooking. Quality frozen strips with good coating adhesion also help.
Can I cook frozen chicken strips without oil in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fryers work excellently without added oil, though a light spray can enhance crispiness. The frozen strips already contain enough fat in their coating.
Pro Tip: Save this recipe to your Pinterest boards and tag us when you make these delicious Frozen chicken strips in air fryer! We love seeing your creations and hearing about your family’s favorite dipping sauce combinations.
Ready to make dinner time easier? These frozen chicken strips in air fryer are about to become your new best friend. Perfect for busy weeknights, after-school snacks, or any time you need a reliable protein that everyone will love. Don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to keep things exciting!
