Beer-Battered Chicken Strips

This delightful recipe for beer-battered chicken strips brings a unique twist to traditional fried chicken. The tender chicken fillets are coated in a light, crispy batter made with pancake mix and beer, offering a delightful crunch with every bite. These golden-brown strips are quick and easy to make, making them perfect for a casual dinner or a party appetizer. The key to their success lies in the frying method, which ensures the batter is crispy and evenly cooked. Served best with fresh salads or a tangy dip, these chicken strips are sure to be a hit with family and friends. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to experiment with different types of beer for varied flavors. Whether you prefer a light lager or a robust ale, this dish is adaptable to your taste preferences. Enjoy the blend of flavors that come from combining juicy chicken with the subtle hopiness of beer. It's a truly mouth-watering meal that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients
  • Chicken fillets, cut into strips
  • 1 cup pancake mix
  • 1 cup beer (any type)
  • Oil (for frying, enough to cover the pan to 1.5 cm depth)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes (including prep and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix with the beer. Stir until you achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency. The carbonation from the beer will help make the batter light and airy.

2. Cut the Chicken: Slice the chicken fillets into strips. Aim for similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

3. Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a frying pan to reach a depth of at least 1.5 cm. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it's hot but not smoking. You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small amount of batter into it; it should sizzle immediately.

4. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before placing it in the pan.

5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully lay the battered chicken strips in the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil's temperature.

6. Monitor and Turn: Fry the chicken strips until they are golden brown, gently turning them halfway through cooking. This should take about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the strips.

7. Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches at least 75°C (165°F).

8. Drain and Cool: Remove the chicken strips from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

9. Serve: Serve hot with a side of fresh salad or a dipping sauce of your choice for extra flavor.

Tips

• Batter Tips: For a thicker batter, reduce the amount of beer slightly or add extra pancake mix.
• Beer Selection: Use your favorite beer to impart a unique flavor. Light beers result in a subtle taste, while darker beers add a more robust flavor.
• Frying Tips: Maintain a consistent oil temperature for the best results to avoid greasy food.

Nutritions

• Calories: 245 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free pancake mix and beer to cater to dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the batter for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Siders: Pair with coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the fried chicken.
• Sauce: Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for a delicious dipping experience.

Best Places

• Taco Reeds - Known for its unique twist on fried delights. Location: 1234 Maple Ave, Dallas, Texas, USA.
• Fried & Brew Café - Perfect place for beer-infused treats. Location: 567 Oak Street, Los Angeles, California, USA.
• The Batter Bazaar - Specializes in all things battered and fried. Location: 12 Collins Street, Melbourne, Australia.
• Golden Crust - Excellent place to indulge in gourmet fried dishes. Location: 98 York Road, London, UK.
• Chick 'n Brew House - A haven for chicken lovers and beer enthusiasts. Location: 101 Bourbon Street, Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
• Crispy Crumbs - Offers a diverse menu of innovative fried dishes. Location: 77 Sunset Blvd, Miami, Florida, USA.
• The Fry Shack - Serves battered delights in an inviting atmosphere. Location: 67 King’s Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
• Beer & Bites Bistro - Combines craft beers with culinary expertise in fried food. Location: 55 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
• Batter Believe It - Known for creative interpretations of fried classics. Location: 23 Queen Street, Toronto, Canada.
• Crisp'n Taps - Offers a variety of beer-battered dishes for all taste preferences. Location: 888 Main Avenue, New York, USA.