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Chicken rings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—crispy, golden, and downright irresistible! Did you know that these bite-sized delights are a fun twist on classic chicken tenders, perfect for dipping and sharing? Whether you’re hosting a game day party, looking for a kid-friendly snack, or just craving something crunchy, chicken rings are here to save the day. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly breaded ring, paired with creamy ranch or tangy barbecue sauce. Sounds delicious, right? Keep reading to discover how to make this easy, flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Chicken Rings: A Party Favorite
My First Time Making Chicken Rings
I’ll never forget the first time I made chicken rings for my family. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and we were all craving something warm and comforting. As I shaped the chicken into rings and coated them in breadcrumbs, my kids gathered around the kitchen, eager to help. The smell of them frying filled the house, and by the time they were golden and crispy, we couldn’t wait to dig in. That day, chicken rings became more than just a recipe—they became a tradition. Now, every time I make them, I’m reminded of that cozy afternoon and the joy of sharing good food with the people I love.
Juicy Chicken Rings: The Ultimate Party Snack
Course: AppetizerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: EasyServings
4
servingsPrep time
20
minutesCooking time
15
minutesCalories per serving
250
kcalThese chicken rings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, they’re perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family snack. Made with simple ingredients and easy to prepare, these golden rings are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy them with your preferred dipping sauces for a delicious treat!
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk
Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into thin strips, about 1/2-inch wide. To form rings, carefully shape each strip into a circle and secure the ends with a toothpick. Place the chicken rings in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour) in the fridge. The chicken will remain soft and moist thanks to this procedure.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In a another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs. This three-step breading process will give your chicken rings a crispy, golden coating.
- Bread the Chicken Rings: Remove the chicken rings from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dip each ring into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and finally, coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Place the breaded rings on a plate or baking sheet.
- Heat the Oil: Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature for best results.
- Fry the Chicken Rings: Carefully place a few chicken rings into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them halfway through. Once done, transfer the rings to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the toothpicks from the chicken rings and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Notes
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
- Variations: For a healthier twist, try baking the chicken rings instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray them with cooking oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Dipping Sauce Ideas: Elevate your chicken rings with creative dipping sauces! Try a spicy sriracha mayo, a tangy buffalo sauce, or a sweet and smoky maple mustard.
- Kid-Friendly Option: Skip the cayenne pepper if serving to kids, and consider using whole-grain breadcrumbs for added nutrition.
- Presentation Tip: Serve your chicken rings on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces in small bowls for a fun, interactive snack. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
Serving size 5 chicken rings (100g)
Calories 250
| Total Fat 12g | 15% |
|---|---|
| Saturated Fat 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat 0g | |
| Cholesterol 60mg | 20% |
| Sodium 300mg | 13% |
| Total Carbohydrate 15g | 5% |
| Dietary Fiber 1g | 4% |
| Total Sugars 1g | |
| Includes Added Sugars 0g | 0% |
| Protein 18g |
| Vitamin D 0mcg | 0% |
|---|---|
| Calcium 30mg | 2% |
| Iron 1mg | 6% |
| Potassium 200mg | 4% |
FAQ
1. What are chicken rings?
Chicken rings are a fun and delicious twist on traditional chicken tenders. Made from thin strips of chicken breast shaped into rings, they’re coated in a crispy breading and fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for dipping and are a hit at parties, game days, or as a family-friendly meal.
2. Can I bake chicken rings instead of frying them?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake chicken rings instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
3. What dipping sauces go well with chicken rings?
Chicken rings pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Popular options include creamy ranch, tangy honey mustard, smoky barbecue, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a zesty buffalo sauce. Feel free to get creative and try your favorite combinations!
4. How do I store and reheat leftover chicken rings?
Store leftover chicken rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
5. Can I make chicken rings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare chicken rings ahead of time! After breading, place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before frying or baking. This makes them a convenient option for parties or busy weeknights.
Make Chicken Rings Your New Favorite Snack
There you have it—a simple, delicious recipe for chicken rings that’s sure to impress! Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying game day, or just craving a fun snack, these crispy, golden rings are the perfect choice. They’re easy to make, customizable with your favorite seasonings, and absolutely irresistible when paired with dipping sauces. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults, making them a great option for family meals. So, why not give this recipe a try? Whip up a batch of chicken rings today and enjoy the crunch, flavor, and joy they bring to your table. Happy cooking!
