👉 CrustedChicken – Recipes on a Budget

Funyun-Crusted Chicken Strips

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken, cut into strips
1 bag or more of Funyuns, crushed
Eggs for egg wash
Flour
Cayenne pepper (to taste)
Cooking oil (if frying)

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:
- Preheat your air fryer to 385 degrees if using.
- Crush the Funyuns and season them with cayenne pepper to taste. Place them on a shallow dish or plate.
- In another shallow dish, create an egg wash.
- Place flour in a third shallow dish.
Prep the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into strips and pat them dry with paper towels.
Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken strip in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured chicken strip into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the chicken strip thoroughly with the crushed Funyuns, ensuring an even covering.
Cooking Options:a. Air Fryer:
- Place the coated chicken strips in the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 385 degrees for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
b. Skillet Frying:
- Heat cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the coated chicken strips until they are golden brown on both sides, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
Serve:
- Once cooked, serve the Funyun-crusted chicken strips with your favorite sides.
- Consider pairing with corn and a side salad for a complete and delicious meal.

Enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of these Funyun-crusted chicken strips! They make for a unique and tasty dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering

Here are some tips to enhance and perfect your Funyun-Crusted Chicken Strips:

Double Coating for Extra Crunch: For an even crunchier texture, consider doing a double coating. After the first coat of crushed Funyuns, dip the chicken strips back into the egg wash and coat them with Funyuns again.
Marination for Flavor: Marinate the chicken strips in your favorite seasoning or a simple marinade (like buttermilk, garlic, and herbs) for a few hours or overnight. This will add extra flavor and tenderness to the chicken.
Adjust Cayenne Pepper to Taste: The cayenne pepper adds a kick to the Funyuns. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. You can also experiment with other seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder for additional flavor.
Ensure Even Coating: When coating the chicken with crushed Funyuns, press the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well. This will result in a more even and crispy coating.
Preheat the Air Fryer: If using an air fryer, make sure to preheat it before placing the chicken strips. This helps in achieving a crispy exterior right from the start.
Use Cooking Spray: If air frying, lightly spray the coated chicken strips with cooking spray. This can enhance the crispiness without adding extra oil.
Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking its internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C). If you’re unsure, cut a strip open to ensure there is no pink inside.
Serve with Dipping Sauces: Prepare dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch to complement the flavors. These sauces can add an extra layer of taste and make the dish more enjoyable.
Experiment with Funyuns Flavors: Funyuns come in various flavors. Consider trying different flavors for a unique twist on the recipe. You might discover a new favorite combination!
Garnish and Presentation: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, over the finished chicken strips for a pop of color and freshness. This can enhance the overall presentation of the dish.