Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken Fries:
    • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide)
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp onion powder
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • For the Buffalo Ranch Sauce:
    • 1/2 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
    • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
    • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (for dipping or drizzling)
  • Optional Garnish:
    • Chopped green onions
    • Crumbled blue cheese

Equipment:

  • Deep fryer or large skillet
  • Three shallow bowls
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Baking sheet

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
    • Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
      • Bowl 1: Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
      • Bowl 2: Beat the eggs with 1 tbsp water.
      • Bowl 3: Place panko breadcrumbs.
  2. Bread the Chicken:
    • Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
    • Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
    • Coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
    • Place breaded strips on a baking sheet and let rest for 10 minutes to set the coating.
  3. Fry the Chicken:
    • Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
    • Fry the chicken strips in batches, 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
    • Remove with tongs and drain on paper towels.
  4. Make the Buffalo Ranch Sauce:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, and ranch seasoning mix until smooth.
    • Toss the fried chicken strips in the sauce to coat evenly, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
  5. Serve:
    • Arrange the chicken fries on a platter.
    • Drizzle with ranch dressing or serve it on the side.
    • Garnish with chopped green onions and crumbled blue cheese, if desired.

Tips:

  • For a baked version, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
  • Adjust the hot sauce to taste for milder or spicier fries.
  • Serve with celery sticks and extra ranch for a classic buffalo experience.

Prep Time:

  • 15 minutes

Cook Time:

  • 15-20 minutes

Servings:

  • 4