Copycat Chili’s Original Chicken Crispers
Why Make This Recipe
Copycat Chili’s Original Chicken Crispers are a fun and delicious meal you can easily make at home.
Making this dish means you can enjoy crispy chicken with your own choice of dipping sauces.
Plus, you can control the ingredients and make them healthier if you want!
Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a party, these chicken crispers are sure to please.
How to Make Copycat Chili’s Original Chicken Crispers
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
- In a bowl, soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 1 hour. This will make the chicken tender and juicy.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Take the chicken tenders out of the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Then, coat each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
How to Serve Copycat Chili’s Original Chicken Crispers
Serve the chicken crispers hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. You can also add a side of fries or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.
How to Store Copycat Chili’s Original Chicken Crispers
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to Make Copycat Chili’s Original Chicken Crispers
- For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken by soaking it in buttermilk, then coating it in the flour mixture, and repeating the process.
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. It should be around 350°F (175°C) for the best frying result.
- You can add some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a little heat if you like spicy food.
Variation
To make a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips and use them instead of tenders.
Q: What can I do if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: You can make your own buttermilk by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken crispers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken crispers. Make sure to cool them completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake them from frozen in the oven.
