Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips with Buttermilk Ranch

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering dish that brings together the smoky sweetness of BBQ with the refreshing creaminess of ranch, then look no further than these Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips served with Buttermilk Ranch. This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a lively get-together with friends, or even a family gathering. The chicken strips are marinated to perfection in a rich BBQ sauce infused with smoked paprika, garlic, and onion, then crispy-fried to golden-brown perfection, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Pairing these strips with a homemade buttermilk ranch dressing elevates this dish, making it a must-try for any chicken lover!

What’s more, this recipe is not just about taste; it’s also incredibly easy to make. With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this recipe engaging and rewarding. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making these Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips with Buttermilk Ranch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love these Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips with Buttermilk Ranch. First and foremost, they encapsulate the essence of comfort food. The crispy texture of the chicken, combined with the smoky flavor of BBQ, makes for a delightful bite that is sure to satisfy your cravings. The addition of the buttermilk ranch dressing adds a refreshing and creamy element that balances out the flavors perfectly.

Secondly, this recipe is highly versatile. You can serve these chicken strips as an appetizer, a main course, or even in a sandwich. They are perfect for dipping, making them a hit at parties and gatherings. Imagine a platter of these crunchy chicken strips, accompanied by a bowl of homemade ranch dressing guests won’t be able to resist!

Moreover, the recipe is adaptable. You can customize the BBQ sauce according to your preference, whether you prefer a sweet, tangy, or spicy variety. This flexibility allows you to infuse your personal touch into the dish, making it uniquely yours.

Finally, this dish is a great way to introduce kids to cooking. The process is fun, and children can get involved in marinating the chicken and breading it. Plus, they’ll love eating something they helped prepare! All in all, these Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips with Buttermilk Ranch are not just a meal; they’re an experience to cherish with family and friends.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Trying this Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips with Buttermilk Ranch recipe is an adventure worth embarking on. For one, it’s a fantastic way to bring the flavors of summer BBQ into your home, regardless of the season. The smoky flavor profile of the chicken strips will transport you to a backyard cookout, no matter where you are.

In addition, making your own chicken strips is healthier compared to store-bought options. You can control the quality of the ingredients, ensuring that you’re serving up wholesome food without artificial preservatives or excess sodium. By using fresh chicken breasts and your favorite BBQ sauce, you can create a meal that is both delicious and nutritious.

Furthermore, the buttermilk ranch dressing is a game-changer. Homemade dressings are often fresher and tastier than their store-bought counterparts, and this ranch is no exception. With a blend of buttermilk, mayonnaise, and aromatic herbs, it’s a delightful dip that complements the smoky chicken beautifully.

Lastly, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. The chicken strips can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, allowing for quick meals throughout the week. This convenience makes it an ideal option for busy families or individuals looking to save time without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients for Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Ingredients for Buttermilk Ranch

• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Recommended Tools or Utensils

• Large mixing bowl
• Three shallow bowls (for breading)
• Whisk
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Paper towels (for draining excess oil)
• Cooking tongs or spatula
• Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)

With these ingredients and utensils in hand, you’re all set to make delicious Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips with Buttermilk Ranch!

Detailed Recipe Steps

For the Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
2. Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls: one for the flour, another for the beaten eggs, and the last for the panko breadcrumbs. This assembly line method makes the breading process efficient.
3. Bread the Chicken Strips: Remove the chicken strips from the marinade, allowing any excess sauce to drip off. Dredge each strip in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently on the breadcrumbs to ensure they adhere well.
4. Fry the Chicken Strips: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the chicken strips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Transfer the cooked strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

For the Buttermilk Ranch

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the ranch dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully. This step is crucial for achieving a well-rounded flavor.

FAQs

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips with Buttermilk Ranch are a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, paired with a tangy ranch dip, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Whether for a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

We invite you to try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below. If you enjoyed this dish, please share it on social media and check out our other related recipes for even more delicious ideas!

For a visual inspiration, check out our Pinterest page.

For more delicious options, explore these recipes:

• Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Pineapple Glaze
• Tender Chicken Strips with Warm Maple Garlic Glaze
• Spicy Cajun Chicken Strips with Ranch Dressing
• Sweet Teriyaki Chicken Bites with Dreamy Coconut Drizzle
• Honey Garlic Chicken Strips with Lemon Herb Dip
• Crispy Chicken Strips with Honey Mustard Cream Dip

Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips with Buttermilk Ranch

These Smoky BBQ Chicken Strips are crispy, flavorful, and paired perfectly with a creamy Buttermilk Ranch for dipping.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Large Bowl
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into strips
• 1 cup BBQ sauce Your favorite brand
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 2 Large eggs Beaten
• 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
• for frying Vegetable oil

Buttermilk Ranch Ingredients

• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried dill
• 1 teaspoon Dried parsley
• to taste Salt
• to taste Black pepper

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
• Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
• Remove the chicken strips from the marinade, allowing excess sauce to drip off. Dredge each strip in flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.
• In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
• Refrigerate the ranch dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer. Serve with your favorite sides!

Keyword bbq, chicken, ranch