BBQ Chip Fried Chicken

This BBQ Chip Fried Chicken recipe brings together crispy, crunchy potato chip coating with juicy, tender chicken that cooks in under 30 minutes. The smoky hint from the barbecue chips elevates simple fried chicken into something memorable that’s perfect for game day or a satisfying family dinner. The crunch and flavor have made it a favorite in my house, especially when served alongside honey mustard for dipping.

I first tried this recipe after seeing the trend on TikTok and it quickly became a go-to for busy nights. Everyone loves the crunch and smoky flavor it adds.

Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: boneless and skinless, about a pound each to keep pieces uniform for even cooking
• Barbecue Potato Chips: Lay’s thin potato chips work best because they crush easily and stick well, boosting smoky flavor
• Paprika: adds a subtle smoky depth, smoked paprika is especially recommended
• Garlic Powder: enhances the savory flavor of the chicken
• Granulated Onion: onion powder works as a substitute here, adds sweetness and umami
• Eggs: acts as the glue to help the chip coating adhere firmly
• Vegetable Oil: needed for frying, choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for best results

Instructions

Slicing the Chicken:

Cut each chicken breast into four evenly sized long strips about the same thickness for consistent cooking times.

Poking Holes for Tenderness:

Use a fork to poke several holes in the top and bottom of each chicken strip. This allows oil and heat to penetrate quickly so the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.

Season and Coat with Egg:

Place the chicken strips in a mixing bowl. Generously sprinkle garlic powder, granulated onion, and paprika over the chicken. Beat the eggs and add enough to coat the chicken well. Use your hands or a spoon to mix so every side is evenly coated with egg and seasoning. A thin but thorough coat is essential for the chips to stick.

Crushing and Coating with Potato Chips:

Open the bag slightly to release air and crush the BBQ chips inside the bag until fine. Pour the crushed chips onto a flat dish. Press each side of the chicken strips into the chips so the coating covers every bit. Smaller chip pieces adhere better and create an even crunch.

Heating the Oil:

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a skillet to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining a steady temperature is key to sealing in juice and preventing greasy chicken.

Frying the Chicken:

Submerge the chicken strips fully in the hot oil. Fry in a single layer so they cook evenly and do not stick together. Fry for 5 to 7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.

Resting and Serving:

Remove the chicken from the oil and let it rest for about 5 minutes on a wire rack or paper towel. This helps retain crispness. Serve warm with honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.

One of my fondest family memories with this dish was watching the kids sneak extra pieces right from the frying basket because the crunch is just irresistible.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat while keeping the crust crisp, bake uncovered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes instead of microwaving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If barbecue chips aren’t available try cheddar or sour cream and onion flavored chips for different tasty variations. Thin chips always work best. If you want to avoid frying, you can bake the coated chicken strips at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. While not as crispy, it’s a great alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crunchy chicken strips alongside loaded French fries and Texas toast for a Southern-inspired meal. They’re fantastic sliced over a simple green salad or tucked into wraps with fresh vegetables and ranch or honey mustard.

Enjoy these crunchy BBQ chip fried chicken strips warm with honey mustard for dipping. They make a great game day or family dinner option.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of chips work best for coating?

Thin barbecue potato chips crush easily and stick well, providing a smoky, crunchy coating. Variations like cheddar or sour cream & onion also work but alter flavor.

→ How long should chicken strips be fried?

Fry chicken strips in 360°F oil for about 5 to 7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

→ Why poke holes in the chicken before frying?

Poking holes allows oil and heat to penetrate evenly, tenderizing the meat and ensuring thorough cooking.

→ Can this be made using a skillet instead of a deep fryer?

Yes, but a deep fryer provides steadier temperature control and safety. Skillet frying requires careful heat monitoring and a thermometer.

→ How should leftover chicken be used?

Leftovers can be sliced over salads, incorporated into sandwiches, or used as a topping on dishes like chicken parmesan pizza.

→ Do I need to add salt when seasoning?

Salting is often unnecessary since the chips contain enough salt to flavor the chicken.