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Air Fryer Chicken Strips with a Coat of Leftover Crisps - Crunchy, Quick, and Clever

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken (breasts or thighs), cut into strips about 1 inch wide
  • 2 cups crushed crisps (any flavor: plain, BBQ, sour cream & onion, salt & vinegar; a mix works too)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko (optional but recommended for structure)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (reduce or skip if using very salty crisps)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray (neutral oil)
  • Optional dips: honey mustard, ranch, hot sauce mayo, or BBQ sauce

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the coating crisp quickly.
  2. Crush the crisps. Pour them into a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin until fine crumbs with a few small bits remain. Aim for a sandy texture with some crunch.
  3. Make the crumb mix. In a shallow bowl, combine crushed crisps, breadcrumbs (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste a pinch of the mixture to gauge salt levels.
  4. Whisk the egg wash. In another bowl, beat eggs with milk or water until smooth.
  5. Pat the chicken dry. Use paper towels to remove surface moisture so the coating sticks better.
  6. Coat the chicken. Dip each strip in the egg wash, letting extra drip off. Press firmly into the crisp mixture, coating all sides. Set coated strips on a plate.
  7. Spray for crispness. Lightly mist both the air fryer basket and the coated chicken with cooking spray. This encourages a golden, crunchy finish.
  8. Air fry in batches. Arrange strips in a single layer without crowding. Cook for 9–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray again after flipping. Strips are done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and coating is deep golden.
  9. Rest briefly. Let the strips sit for 2–3 minutes to set the crust.
  10. Serve with dips. Plate with your favorite sauces and a simple side like slaw, salad, or roasted veg.