What To Know
- Roll the egg-coated chicken strips in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating.
- Arrange the breaded chicken strips on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
- For a crispier finish, broil the chicken strips for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Are you craving those crispy, juicy chicken strips you get at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse? You don’t need to go out to enjoy them! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the art of cooking BJ‘s chicken strips at home, ensuring you achieve that perfect crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior.
The Secret Ingredient: BJ’s Chicken Strip Seasoning
The key to replicating BJ’s chicken strips lies in the seasoning. While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, we can recreate a similar flavor profile with readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Paprika: Adds a vibrant red color and a mild, sweet flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Provides a savory, pungent aroma and depth of flavor.
- Onion Powder: Contributes a sweet, savory, and slightly pungent taste.
- Black Pepper: Adds a sharp, earthy flavor and a touch of heat.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients and balances the overall taste.
- Cayenne Pepper (Optional): If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your seasoning blend.
Preparing the Chicken
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can use whole chicken breasts or cut them into strips for easier cooking. Here’s how to prepare them:
1. Cut the chicken: If using whole breasts, cut them into long strips, about 1 inch wide and 3-4 inches long.
2. Tenderize the chicken: Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken strips to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents them from becoming tough.
3. Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients. Generously coat the chicken strips with the seasoning blend, ensuring they are thoroughly covered.
The Breading Process: Achieving that Crispy Texture
The breading process is crucial for achieving the iconic BJ‘s chicken strip crunch. Here’s how to do it right:
1. Set up your breading stations: You’ll need three bowls for breading: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
2. Dredge in flour: Coat each chicken strip in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip in egg: Carefully dip the floured chicken strips into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
4. Coat with breadcrumbs: Roll the egg-coated chicken strips in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating.
Cooking Methods: Oven, Air Fryer, or Pan-Frying
BJ’s chicken strips can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are three popular methods:
1. Oven-Baked Chicken Strips:
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake the strips: Arrange the breaded chicken strips on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Optional: Broil for extra crispness: For a crispier finish, broil the chicken strips for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
2. Air Fryer Chicken Strips:
- Preheat your air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook in batches: Air fry the chicken strips in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Cook time: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for doneness: Ensure the chicken strips are cooked through and golden brown.
3. Pan-Fried Chicken Strips:
- Heat oil in a pan: Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry in batches: Fry the chicken strips in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cook time: Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the cooked chicken strips from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Chicken Strip Experience
BJ’s chicken strips are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with a variety of accompaniments:
- Dipping sauces: Classic dipping options include honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and sriracha mayo.
- Sides: Pair your chicken strips with fries, onion rings, coleslaw, or a side salad.
- Sandwiches: Create a hearty chicken strip sandwich with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and cheese.
A Final Word on Cooking BJ’s Chicken Strips: Enjoy the Process!
Cooking BJ’s chicken strips at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Experiment with different dipping sauces and sides to find your perfect combination. Most importantly, enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze the breaded chicken strips before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken strips before cooking. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and cook according to your preferred method.
2. How do I know if the chicken strips are cooked through?
The chicken strips should be cooked through when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer.
3. Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?
While chicken breasts are the most common choice, you can also use chicken tenders or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. What if my chicken strips don‘t get crispy?
If your chicken strips aren’t getting crispy, try using a higher cooking temperature or increase the cooking time slightly. You can also try adding a bit more oil to the pan or air fryer.
5. Can I make these chicken strips ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the breaded chicken strips ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook them.
