Crispy Chicken Strips Loaded with Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Crispy Chicken Strips Loaded with Cheddar Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and rich, cheesy goodness. This comforting meal is perfect for dinner or a fun weekend snack. The crispy breading, combined with creamy cheddar sauce, will make you want to make this recipe time and time again.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is worth making for several reasons. First, it’s easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Secondly, who can resist crispy chicken? When you add the cheesy sauce, it takes this dish to a whole new level. Plus, you can customize the dish with your favorite spices and toppings. It’s a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike!

How to Make Crispy Chicken Strips Loaded with Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Ingredients

1.5 lbs chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
Oil for frying
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 cup milk
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt to taste
Pinch of cayenne (optional)

Directions

Soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This helps tenderize the chicken.
In a bowl, mix together the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Dredge the soaked chicken tenders in the dry mixture until they are fully coated. Then, deep-fry them in hot oil until they are golden and crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Drain the cooked chicken on paper towels.
To make the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for a minute. Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and a pinch of cayenne, if using.
Stack the crispy chicken strips on a plate and pour the cheesy sauce over the top. You can also garnish with parsley or chili flakes for an extra pop of color.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Strips Loaded with Cheddar Cheese Sauce

To serve, place the chicken strips on a platter and drizzle with cheddar cheese sauce. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or hot sauce, and enjoy with a side of fries or a fresh salad. This dish is excellent for parties or as a main course for dinner!

How to Store Crispy Chicken Strips Loaded with Cheddar Cheese Sauce

If you have leftovers, let the chicken strips cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cheese sauce can also be stored separately in another container. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again.

Tips to Make Crispy Chicken Strips Loaded with Cheddar Cheese Sauce

For extra crunch, use breadcrumbs in your dry mixture.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a perfect crispy texture.
Don’t skip marinating the chicken in buttermilk; it keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Variation

You can switch things up by adding spices to the chicken breading, like Italian seasoning or cayenne for heat. If you love a different cheese, try mozzarella or pepper jack instead of cheddar!

FAQs

1. Can I bake the chicken strips instead of frying them?
Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to spray them with cooking spray to help them crisp up.

2. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but you will need to cook them according to the package instructions. It’s always best to thaw them first for even cooking.

3. How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use whole wheat flour and drizzle the sauce lightly instead of pouring it over the chicken. You can also serve with a side salad instead of fries!