Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

Crunchy and flavorful, this recipe for Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips brings the taste of a favorite restaurant dish right to your kitchen. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or as a delicious snack, these chicken strips are coated in a crispy breading and finished with an irresistible barley tea glaze. Your guests will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Crispy Texture: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and a light fry ensures each bite is satisfyingly crunchy.
• Flavorful Glaze: The barley tea glaze adds a unique sweetness that perfectly complements the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even on a salad for a tasty twist.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good chicken strip! These are sure to impress at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. With just a few key items, you’ll be ready to create these delightful chicken strips!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking thermometer
• Slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large heavy-bottomed pot: This provides even heat distribution while frying, ensuring your chicken strips cook perfectly without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily and efficiently during the preparation steps.
• Whisk: Great for beating eggs and mixing batters smoothly, giving you the best coating for your chicken strips.

Ingredients

Crunchy chicken strips breaded simply and fried to crispy perfection, then tossed in a mouthwatering barley tea glaze! This copycat recipe tastes just like that appetizer from TGI Fridays!

For the Chicken Strips

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders
• peanut oil (or vegetable/canola oil) (enough to fill a large heavy bottomed pot about 2 inches deep)
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tsp paprika
• 3/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs (lightly beaten)
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
• 1 cup barley tea glaze (more or less, to taste)
• additional sesame seeds (for garnish)
• minced fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the breading stick better.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

In one bowl, combine the flour, paprika, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Strips

Coat each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg mixture next, allowing excess to drip off before rolling it in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Strips

Heat oil in your heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add breaded chicken strips in batches so they do not overcrowd. Fry until golden brown on both sides—about 5–7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips!

How to Serve Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

Serving these delicious Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips can elevate your dining experience. There are many creative ways to enjoy this crispy treat, making it perfect for any occasion.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce – A perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this sauce enhances the flavor of the chicken strips.
• Soy Sauce – A classic choice that adds a salty umami kick to each bite.
• Honey Mustard – This tangy sauce pairs wonderfully with the sesame glaze for a delightful twist.

On a Salad

• Asian Slaw – Toss some crunchy cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers for a vibrant salad topped with chicken strips and sesame dressing.
• Mixed Greens – Serve the chicken on a bed of fresh greens with avocado slices and a light vinaigrette.

As an Appetizer

• Skewered Chicken Strips – Thread the crispy strips onto skewers for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
• Mini Sliders – Place the chicken strips in small buns with lettuce and sauce for delightful mini sandwiches.

How to Perfect Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

Perfecting your Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure crispy and flavorful results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken tenders will yield juicier strips compared to frozen ones.
• Maintain Oil Temperature – Ensure your oil stays at around 350°F for optimal frying. This prevents soggy strips and promotes crispiness.
• Double Bread for Extra Crunch – For an extra layer of crunch, dip the chicken in flour, then eggs, then panko breadcrumbs again before frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition; steam until tender but still crisp.
2. Fried Rice – A flavorful rice dish with vegetables complements the chicken perfectly; make it using leftover rice for ease.
3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar and sesame oil adds a crunchy contrast.
4. Quinoa Pilaf – This protein-packed grain is both filling and healthy; add herbs for extra flavor.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside the crispy chicken.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry – Quick-cooked mixed vegetables seasoned with soy sauce enhance the Asian theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the pot: Frying too many strips at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for crispy results.
• Neglecting to season properly: Skipping seasoning on the chicken or the breading mix will lead to bland flavors. Ensure every layer is well-seasoned.
• Not using a thermometer: Failing to monitor oil temperature can result in undercooked or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the chicken strips immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let them rest briefly before serving.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Old panko breadcrumbs won’t provide that desired crunch. Always check that your breadcrumbs are fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken strips in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

• Freeze cooked chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm, but this may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add chicken strips until warm and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips:

How do I make Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko. Check labels carefully!

What can I serve with Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips?

These chicken strips pair well with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I make Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the refrigerator or freezer, then reheat when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to adjust sweetness in the glaze?

You can add more or less sweetener based on your taste preference. Honey or maple syrup work well as natural sweeteners.

Final Thoughts

Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips offer an irresistible crunch paired with a flavorful glaze that brings comfort food right into your kitchen. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it with different sides. Enjoy experimenting!

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Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips

• Author: sofia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful crunch of Copycat-Glazed Sesame Chicken Strips, a dish that brings restaurant flavors right to your home kitchen. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or simply as a snack, these chicken strips are coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb crust and finished with a luscious barley tea glaze. They’re not just delicious; they’re easy to make and sure to impress your guests. With each bite, you’ll enjoy savory, sweet, and umami notes that create an irresistible flavor combination. Get ready to serve up this crowd-pleaser at your next event!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
• 1 cup barley tea glaze
• Peanut or vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tsp paprika
• 3/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Additional sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Minced fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
2. Set up three bowls: one with flour mixed with paprika, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper; the second with whisked eggs and buttermilk; the third with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Coat each chicken tender in flour, then egg mixture, and finally roll in panko until fully coated.
4. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C) and fry the chicken strips in batches until golden brown (about 5–7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3 pieces (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, double bread the chicken by repeating the coating process. Maintain oil temperature for crispy results and avoid overcrowding the pot. Serve with sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping.