Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

There’s something so comforting about biting into a perfectly crisp chicken strip, especially when it’s drenched in a buttery, sweet garlic glaze that clings to every golden edge. This Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip recipe takes your classic chicken finger and gives it a gourmet upgrade with just the right balance of crunch, sweetness, and savory notes. The smell of sizzling garlic and melted butter dancing in the kitchen? Pure magic. Let’s take a delicious journey into making these addictive strips from scratch.

Behind the Recipe

Growing up, crispy chicken was always a family favorite on movie nights or weekend gatherings. But there was this one time I tried a honey butter garlic variation at a street food festival, and that flavor never left me. I went back home and spent weekends experimenting until I recreated that sticky, golden perfection. This recipe is the result of that labor of love, and trust me, it’s worth every bite.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While chicken strips are loved worldwide, the idea of coating them in a honey butter garlic sauce is rooted in Korean street food culture. Korean fried chicken is known for its double-fry method and bold, flavorful glazes. This recipe borrows inspiration from those sticky, flavorful sauces that blend sweetness with umami in the most irresistible way.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

There’s so much to adore about this dish. Here’s why it’s going to become your next kitchen favorite:

Versatile: Perfect as a main course, party appetizer, or sandwich filler.

Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable chicken cuts.

Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in under 45 minutes.

Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, garlic, or heat to your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults can’t resist these golden beauties.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep and refrigerate before frying for convenience.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat in the oven or air fryer for that same crunch.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To get that pro-level crunch and flavor, here are some key tips:

• Double dredge: Dip the chicken in the egg mixture and flour mix twice for extra crispiness.
• Rest before frying: Let the coated chicken sit for 10 minutes to help the breading stick better.
• Control the oil temp: Maintain 350°F for even frying and golden color.
• Use real butter: For the sauce, real unsalted butter gives a rich, creamy finish.
• Glaze immediately: Toss the hot chicken with warm sauce right after frying for max absorption.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Keep these tools handy for a smooth cooking experience:

Mixing Bowls: For coating and dredging your chicken.

Tongs: Ideal for flipping and transferring strips without breaking the crust.

Deep Frying Pan or Dutch Oven: Holds oil and maintains heat well.

Wire Rack: Drains excess oil to keep chicken crispy.

Whisk: Helps blend the honey butter garlic sauce evenly.

Ingredients in Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients working together harmoniously.

1. Raw Chicken Tenders: 1.5 pounds. Boneless, skinless cuts for tender, juicy strips.
2. All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup. Creates the crispy outer crust.
3. Cornstarch: 1/2 cup. Adds lightness and extra crunch to the coating.
4. Eggs: 2 large. Helps the flour mixture stick to the chicken.
5. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Seasons the chicken and the dredge.
6. Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon. Adds depth and a touch of heat.
7. Paprika: 1 teaspoon. Brings subtle smokiness and color.
8. Garlic Cloves: 4, minced. The base of that flavorful glaze.
9. Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick). Rich and silky for the sauce.
10. Honey: 1/3 cup. Brings sweetness and sticky perfection.
11. Chopped Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon. For garnish and freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Need to tweak things a bit? Here are some great swaps:

Chicken Tenders: Chicken thighs or breast strips.
Cornstarch: Rice flour or more all-purpose flour.
Paprika: Smoked paprika or chili powder for heat.
Honey: Maple syrup or brown sugar in a pinch.
Butter: Ghee or plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.

Ingredient Spotlight

Honey: This golden nectar does more than sweeten. It caramelizes beautifully in the hot butter, creating a glaze that sticks and shines.

Cornstarch: Often overlooked, cornstarch is the secret weapon for that shattering crisp exterior that stays crunchy even after glazing.

Instructions for Making Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

Get ready to roll up your sleeves. Here’s how we’re making this crave-worthy dish:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F. Line a plate with paper towels or place a wire rack nearby for draining.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika. Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Set up a dredging station: chicken strips, egg wash, and flour mix side-by-side.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Dip each chicken tender in the egg, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the process once more.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Fry the coated chicken in batches, about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on the wire rack.
6. Finishing Touches:
   In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in honey and simmer for 1–2 minutes. Toss the hot chicken in the warm sauce to coat evenly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Plate the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately for that irresistible crunch.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The beauty of this dish is all in the contrasts. The outside is deeply crisp from the cornstarch blend, while the inside remains juicy and tender. The sauce glazes each strip with a sticky-sweet, buttery richness, and the garlic brings in that sharp, savory kick. Every bite is balanced and bursting with flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

This dish might look restaurant-level, but it’s surprisingly manageable. Here’s how to master it:

• Use a thermometer to keep oil at a consistent 350°F.
• Let the coated chicken rest before frying for better crust adherence.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan or the oil temp will drop.
• Warm the sauce before tossing for better absorption.

What to Avoid

Even great recipes can go sideways without care. Here’s what to watch for:

• Skipping the cornstarch, which sacrifices crunch.
• Using cold butter in the sauce, which won’t emulsify well.
• Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy strips.
• Not drying the chicken, which causes the coating to slide off.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 470

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can totally get ahead with this dish. Prep and coat the chicken, then refrigerate until ready to fry. Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back that crisp. You can also freeze the cooked strips and reheat straight from frozen.

How to Serve Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strip

These beauties are fantastic served over a bed of fluffy rice or with a crisp green salad. They also make amazing sliders with slaw on mini buns. Don’t forget a lemon wedge or spicy mayo on the side for dipping.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers won’t last long, but if they do, here are some ideas:

• Slice and toss into a wrap with greens and a drizzle of ranch.
• Dice and top over a grain bowl or quinoa salad.
• Chop and fold into a quesadilla with cheese and scallions.
• Layer into a hearty sandwich with pickles and extra glaze.

Additional Tips

• Always use fresh garlic for the most intense flavor.
• A dash of chili flakes in the sauce adds a sweet-heat twist.
• Double the sauce if you like extra drizzle on your plate.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation matters, especially when feeding guests. Stack the strips high on a clean white plate, drizzle extra sauce on top, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve on a wooden board with lemon wedges and dipping sauces for a rustic, wow-worthy spread.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the honey garlic sauce.
• Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce and ginger for a teriyaki-style glaze.
• BBQ Fusion: Mix a spoon of smoky BBQ sauce into the glaze.
• Herb Crusted: Add dried oregano and thyme to the flour mix.
• Air Fried: Make it lighter by using an air fryer instead of deep frying.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these chicken strips in an air fryer?

Yes, absolutely. Just spray the coated chicken lightly with oil and cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Q2: What’s the best oil for frying these strips?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Q3: Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, just slice the chicken breast into similar-sized strips.

Q4: How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry, dredge properly, and let it rest before frying.

Q5: Can I make the honey garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it and store in the fridge. Warm it up before tossing with the chicken.

Q6: What side dishes pair well with this?

Try coleslaw, garlic mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a light cucumber salad.

Q7: Can I freeze the cooked chicken strips?

Yes, freeze in a single layer and reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Q8: Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add spice with paprika or chili flakes if desired.

Q9: How can I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Q10: Can I use pre-minced garlic?

Fresh garlic is preferred, but pre-minced works in a pinch. Just be cautious of added preservatives.

Conclusion

Crispy Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Strips are the kind of dish that hits every craving. Sweet, salty, buttery, crunchy, and deeply satisfying, they bring comfort and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight treat or a crowd-pleasing party platter, one thing’s for sure… you’re going to love every single bite.

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