There’s nothing quite like the excitement of making Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers at home. Picture this: it’s a Friday evening, and I’m craving something crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious. After a long week, I want to treat myself and my family to a fun dinner that’s packed with flavor. That’s when the idea of whipping up these amazing chicken fingers struck me. The combination of crunchy coating and spicy sauce simply makes my taste buds dance! As I prep the ingredients, I can’t help but think of those times when we’ve gathered around the table, laughter filling the air, and everyone reaches for another piece of chicken. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to connect, reminisce, and enjoy the weekend together.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Skillet

Why This Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers Shines

It’s all about the crunch!

What sets Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers apart from regular chicken fingers is that crunch. The gluten-free seasoned coating mix gives each piece a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken. It’s that first bite that makes you fall in love.

Perfect for spice lovers

If you’re like me and love a bit of heat, these chicken fingers won’t disappoint. The addition of Sriracha and Tabasco sauce kicks things up a notch, creating a deliciously spicy flavor that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

Great for any occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a game night with friends, Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers can steal the show. They’re easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Plus, they make for some fantastic leftovers, perfect for lunches the next day!

A fun cooking experience

Cooking these chicken fingers can be a fun activity for the kids and adults alike! I always find joy in dipping each piece of chicken in the coating and egg mixture. It’s a hands-on experience that adds a little fun to the kitchen, especially when we turn on some music and dance while we cook.

Customizable to your taste

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the level of heat by adding more or less of the hot sauces or even try different dipping sauces on the side. It’s easy to make it your own!

Simple ingredients

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly special. I appreciate that these items are often staples in my pantry. It means I can whip them up anytime the craving strikes!

Ingredients Overview for Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers

When it comes to the ingredients for Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers, they all come together in a delightful harmony. The key players, like the gluten-free seasoned coating mix and the spicy sauces, create a crispy exterior full of flavor. Pairing these with succulent chicken makes for a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

2 cups gluten-free seasoned coating mix (I used Hodgson Mills brand and loved it): This mix is the backbone of the crispy coating that makes these chicken fingers so delightful.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Adds a robust flavor that enhances the overall taste.
2 teaspoons salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
3/4 teaspoon black pepper: A pinch for that extra warmth.
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: This is where the heat comes in, giving the dish its signature spiciness.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a sweet smokiness that balances the spice.
3/4 cup milk: This helps the coating adhere to the chicken and adds richness.
1 large egg: Another binder for the coating, ensuring that everything sticks together nicely.
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2″ strips: The star ingredient—juicy and tender chicken.
1/3 cup Sriracha hot sauce: Provides that fiery flavor that makes these chicken fingers stand out.
2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce: A splash of extra heat!
1 teaspoon honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
1 1/2 tablespoons butter, melted: Enriches the sauce that coats the chicken.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and a pop of color.
Olive Oil (or other variety), for frying: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Making Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers

When it’s time to make these Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers, get ready for a delicious experience! You’ll love how easy and satisfying the process is. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to crispy, spicy perfection.

Start by heating a generous amount of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. You want to make sure the oil is hot enough for frying. A great way to check this is by dropping a small piece of bread or a drip of water into the oil; if it sizzles vigorously, you’re good to go!
While the oil is heating, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine gluten-free seasoned coating mix, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. The aroma will be incredible—this is where your flavor starts!
In a separate, shallow bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well blended. This mixture will help the coating stick to the chicken.
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken! Dip each strip of chicken first in the coating mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. Finally, return the chicken strip to the coating mixture, giving it a double coating for that extra crunch!
Once all the strips are coated, carefully place them in the preheated oil in small batches. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and prevent that golden browning.
Fry the chicken for about 6 minutes, turning them halfway through. You’re looking for a deep golden brown color, indicating they’re cooked to perfection. If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer should read 165°F when done!
While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine Sriracha, Tabasco, honey, and melted butter. Mix well until combined. The sweetness of the honey complements the heat from the sauces beautifully.
As each batch of chicken finishes frying, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps them crispy and not greasy, which is key!
Once all the chicken is fried, place it in a large bowl. Drizzle the spicy sauce over the hot chicken and toss gently to ensure all the strips are well coated. The vibrant color is stunning!
Finally, serve the Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers immediately while they’re hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Watch as everyone dives in for more!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t skip the double coating: This extra step ensures a crunchier texture that won’t disappoint.
Hot oil safety: Always be cautious when frying. Never leave hot oil unattended, and keep a splatter guard handy.
Cooking in batches: Frying in smaller batches helps maintain the oil temperature, ensuring even cooking.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to make sure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Tips and Tricks about Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers

Making Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers can be a delightful culinary adventure! Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best results:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, coated chicken strips for later use. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Pairing: Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing to cool down the heat and enhance flavor.
Variations: Experiment with different spices in the coating mix; try adding some chili powder or Italian herbs for a unique twist.
Serving suggestion: These chicken fingers make a fantastic appetizer for parties or game nights!

Perfect Pairings for Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers

When serving Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers, there are endless possibilities to elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic pairings:

Crispy French Fries: A classic sidekick, their salty flavor perfectly balances the spice of the chicken.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw pairs beautifully, adding a cool crunch that complements the heat of the chicken fingers.
Vegetable Sticks: Serve with an array of cut veggies like carrots and celery, perfect for dipping into ranch or blue cheese.
Game Day Snacks: These chicken fingers are ideal for parties or game nights, serving them alongside chips and dips for a crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for casual dining: Enjoy them during a relaxed family dinner or while catching up with friends over drinks!

FAQ

Yes! You can prepare the chicken fingers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply coat the chicken and keep it in the fridge for a few hours before frying. This way, they are ready to cook when you are!

These chicken fingers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with crispy French fries, a fresh garden salad, or even some creamy coleslaw. Dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing can also enhance the experience!

Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken fingers. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.

You can easily customize the heat level of your Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of Sriracha and Tabasco used. For an extra kick, feel free to add more hot sauce or even some crushed red pepper flakes!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spicy Sriracha Chicken Fingers are a fantastic way to spice up your dinner routine. Their crispy texture and delightful heat make them a special treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try making them at home—you won’t regret it!