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Crispy Chicken Fries with Chipotle Ranch Recipe

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4.1 from 5 reviews

Crispy Chicken Fries with Chipotle Ranch are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Tender strips of chicken breast are seasoned, breaded with Italian-seasoned panko, and fried to a golden crisp. Served with a spicy, creamy chipotle ranch dipping sauce, this recipe makes a perfect appetizer or snack that’s sure to satisfy cravings for a crunchy, savory treat.

Ingredients

Chicken Fries

  • 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into fry-sized strips (about 1/2 inch wide)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Cajun seasoning or poultry seasoning, to taste
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2-3 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • Oil for frying, about 1 inch in a shallow pan

Chipotle Ranch Dipping Sauce

  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
  • 1 tbsp adobo sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken Strips: Cut the chicken breasts into thin fry-sized strips approximately 1/2 inch wide. Season the chicken pieces evenly with salt, black pepper, and if desired, Cajun seasoning or poultry seasoning for extra flavor.
  2. Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed thoroughly with Italian seasoning. Dredge each chicken strip first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat fully in the seasoned panko pressing firmly to ensure the coating sticks well.
  3. Heat Oil and Fry: Pour enough oil into a shallow pan to reach about 1 inch deep and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Fry 5-6 chicken strips at a time, cooking for 4-5 minutes total and turning halfway through so they brown evenly. Continue cooking until each strip is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  4. Drain and Season: Remove the fried chicken fries from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil away. While still hot, sprinkle with a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
  5. Prepare Chipotle Ranch Sauce: In a bowl, combine ranch dressing, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic powder, and lime juice. Mix well, then refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Present the crispy chicken fries alongside the chilled chipotle ranch dipping sauce for a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer.

Notes

  • For extra heat, add more chipotle peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the ranch sauce.
  • Chicken fries can be kept warm in a low oven (200°F) for up to 15 minutes before serving.
  • Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for optimal crispiness and to avoid greasy results.
  • This recipe works well with boneless skinless chicken thighs for juicier fries, though cook time may vary slightly.
  • The chipotle ranch sauce can be doubled and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.