Crispy Fried Chicken Strips

Instructions

1. 01

   Prep the workspace. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place a wire rack on top if you have one. This is for draining the fried chicken.

2. 02

   Mix the seasoned flour. In a large, shallow bowl or dish with sides, whisk together the flour, cajun seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder.

3. 03

   Make the egg wash. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs and water together.

4. 04

   Bread the chicken. Pat the chicken strips very dry with paper towels. Working one piece at a time, dip into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, then back into the flour, pressing to coat well. Place breaded chicken on the wire rack or baking sheet.

5. 05

   Repeat with remaining chicken strips and let them rest while you heat the oil.

6. 06

   Heat the oil. Pour oil to a depth of 2 inches in a large cast iron skillet or deep, heavy-bottomed pot. Heat over medium-high to 375°F. Use a deep-fry thermometer to check.

7. 07

   Fry the chicken. Carefully add 3 to 4 breaded strips to the hot oil one at a time. Fry until golden brown on the first side, about 5 minutes, then flip and cook until golden on the second side, about 6 to 7 minutes more. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

8. 08

   Drain and repeat. Transfer fried strips to the wire rack to drain. Return oil to 375°F, then fry the next batch. You'll have 2 to 3 batches total.

9. 09

   Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.