Copycat Whiskey Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

Introduction

Get ready to impress your taste buds with this delightful Copycat Whiskey Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips recipe! These tender, juicy chicken strips are lovingly marinated in buttermilk, then coated in a flavor-packed seasoning and fried to golden perfection. The secret lies in the luscious whiskey glaze that adds a rich sweetness with a hint of heat — it’s simply irresistible! Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these chicken strips are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

For the glaze:

  • 1 cup whiskey
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Directions and Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, soak the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
  2. In another bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
  3. Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat, making sure it’s hot enough for frying.
  4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each strip in the flour mixture until fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
  5. Fry the chicken strips in the hot oil until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
  6. Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine the whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook and stir until the mixture reduces and thickens, which should take about 5-10 minutes.
  7. Toss the crispy fried chicken strips in the whiskey glaze, ensuring they are well coated with the enticing sauce.
  8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and garnish with sliced green onions before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.

Notes or Tips

For an extra crunch, you can double-dredge the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again before frying. Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. For an even more intense flavor, let the chicken marinate in buttermilk overnight.

Cooking Techniques

Deep frying is the key to achieving a perfectly crispy exterior. Maintain the oil temperature while frying, as added chicken can lower the heat and cause sogginess. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread in; if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re good to go!

FAQ

  • Can I bake these chicken strips instead of frying? Yes! You can bake them at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier option.
  • What can I serve with these chicken strips? They pair beautifully with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or even some crispy vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Copycat Whiskey Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with bold flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself), these strips will make any occasion special. So whip up a batch, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every juicy, glazed bite!

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