There’s something about the crispy, golden exterior of Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers that just beckons to you. Picture this: tender bites of steak coated in a crunchy crust, seasoned to perfection, and all cooked with little to no oil – yes, please! The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a siren song, inviting everyone to gather around the table, knives and forks ready for action. crispy buffalo chicken tenders.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make It Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- How long should I cook Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers?
- Can I use other meats besides chicken?
- What dipping sauces pair well with these fingers?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I still remember the first time I made this recipe for my family. The kids couldn’t believe their eyes when they saw what I was serving. “You mean we can eat steak with our fingers?” they exclaimed in delight. These delightful bites are perfect for game nights or casual family dinners when you want comfort food without the guilt. tequila lime chicken marinade Trust me; once you try these Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers, they’ll become a staple in your home!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers are ridiculously easy to prepare, making dinner a breeze
- They pack an incredible flavor punch with every bite
- Visually appealing with their golden crust, they make for an impressive dish at any gathering
- Enjoy them as appetizers or a main course; their versatility is unmatched!
I recall one memorable evening when my friends came over for a movie night. As soon as those crispy fingers hit the table, it was like watching a pack of hungry wolves descend upon their prey!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 1 pound of chicken breasts for optimal tenderness and coating coverage.
- All-Purpose Flour: This will create that satisfying crunch on the outside; don’t skimp on it!
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crispiness that regular breadcrumbs can’t match.
- Eggs: Two eggs help bind everything together; fresh eggs work best!
- Buttermilk: A secret ingredient that adds moisture and flavor; you can also use milk with vinegar as a substitute.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Simple yet effective; feel free to add your favorites for extra zing!
- Cooking Spray: A must-have for that golden finish without the guilt of frying.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prep Your Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into long strips about 1 inch wide. This ensures even cooking and makes them easy to handle.
Create Your Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs mixed with buttermilk, and the last filled with panko breadcrumbs.
Dredge Like a Pro: Dip each chicken strip first into the flour mixture until coated well, then into the egg mixture before finally rolling it in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare your chicken fingers; this helps them get crispy faster.
Spray & Cook: Lightly spray both sides of your breaded chicken fingers with cooking spray and arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy!: Once cooked through and crispy, serve these delightful Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers hot! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear. sheet pan chicken pitas.
These Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers are not just delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up for any occasion. turkey taco stuffed sweet potatoes Now go ahead—make some memories around your dinner table!
You Must Know
- Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers are simple, crispy, and delicious
- The air fryer gives you that perfect crunch without all the grease
- Plus, they make an ideal game-day snack or weeknight dinner
- Your family will love them, and you’ll love the easy cleanup!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your chicken fingers with seasoning and breading. Cook in the air fryer at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for extra kick. You can also swap out chicken for pork or beef for a fun twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to retain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For an extra crispy coating, spray your chicken fingers lightly with cooking oil before air frying
- Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for better flavor
- Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and browning
I remember the first time I made Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers; my kids devoured them in minutes and begged for more! For more inspiration, check out this creamy chicken marsala pasta recipe.
FAQ
How long should I cook Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers?
Cook them at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Can I use other meats besides chicken?
Absolutely! Pork or beef also works great with this recipe.
What dipping sauces pair well with these fingers?
Try ranch, honey mustard, or spicy ketchup for a delightful combination!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak Fingers are the perfect blend of crispy texture and savory flavor, making them a must-try for any comfort food lover. These tender chicken strips are coated in a crunchy, golden crust and cooked to perfection with minimal oil, ensuring a guilt-free indulgence. Ideal for family dinners or game nights, these delightful bites will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk (or milk with vinegar)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into long strips, approximately 1 inch wide.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs and buttermilk, and the last with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip into egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray both sides of breaded chicken strips with cooking spray and arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy; flip halfway through cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 chicken fingers (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg