Stuffing Coated Chicken Strips - Day 6

Discover a festive twist on a classic favourite with our Air Fryer Chicken Strips featuring a Christmas stuffing coating. This delightful recipe merges succulent chicken with the comforting flavours of holiday stuffing, perfect for bringing seasonal cheer to your dining table. Whether you're planning a cosy family dinner or an impressive dish for a festive gathering, these chicken strips are sure to be a hit. The air fryer method ensures a crispy, golden finish, providing convenience without compromising on taste. Enjoy a home-cooked feast that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite.

Crafting The Perfect Stuffing

If you have the time, you can not beat making your own homemade festive stuffing. Below is my go to chestnut stuffing. For this you will need...

Ingredients

• 150g breadcrumbs
• 100g cooked chestnuts, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sage
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• Salt and pepper

Creating the perfect stuffing is all about balancing flavours and textures. Heat a small pan over medium heat and add a dash of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with breadcrumbs, chopped chestnuts, sage, thyme, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are well distributed. The chestnuts should add a delightful crunch, while the herbs and spices infuse the stuffing with a festive aroma. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, perhaps adding a pinch more of your favourite herb for a personal touch. For added seasonal flair, consider incorporating dried cranberries or a sprinkle of orange zest, both of which can enhance the traditional holiday essence.

If you simply don't have the time this year to make your own stuffing (like me), then any packet mix you like will work perfectly.

Here’s what you’ll need for our festive chicken strips:

Ingredients

• 500g chicken breast, cut into strips
• Stuffing, whether homemade or store bought
• Salt and pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 4 tablespoons flour
• Olive oil spray

Opt for free-range chicken for better flavour. Fresh herbs and firm, glossy chestnuts without mould or softness will enhance the dish.

Method

1. Begin by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for 10 minutes.

2. Start by seasoning the chicken strips with salt and pepper. Dredge each strip in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, making sure each strip is evenly coated. Then, roll each strip in the prepared stuffing mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

3. Arrange the coated strips on a tray in a single layer, ready for air frying.
4. To achieve an even crust, gently press the stuffing mixture into the chicken, ensuring a thorough and uniform coating. This step is crucial for getting that perfect crispy finish in the air fryer.

5. Lightly spray the coated chicken strips with olive oil spray to aid in browning. Place the strips in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching or overlapping, which allows for even cooking. Cook the strips for 10-12 minutes, remembering to turn them halfway through the cooking process to ensure both sides achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

Keep a close eye on the timing, as different air fryers can vary in power and efficiency. It's crucial to check for doneness by slicing into one of the larger strips; the chicken should be fully cooked, appearing white throughout with no pinkness remaining. If needed, add a minute or two of cooking time, but be careful not to overcook to maintain juicy, tender chicken.

Pair these delicious chicken strips with a creamy cranberry sauce to bring out the festive flavours. For a balanced meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Enhance your presentation by arranging the strips on a platter with sprigs of rosemary and slices of orange, adding a touch of elegance to your table setting. For an added indulgence, consider complementing the dish with garlic mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob.

A tangy coleslaw or a light vinaigrette-dressed salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich stuffing-coated chicken. For a traditional British touch, serve with a side of bread sauce or a dollop of tangy mustard.

If you're hosting a larger gathering, set up a festive spread by including these chicken strips as part of a buffet. Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, spicy mayonnaise, or a herby yoghurt dip, tangy cranberry sauce or my favourite a rich pot of gravy to cater to different tastes.

To further elevate your festive feast, pair the chicken strips with other holiday favourites like roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon, glazed carrots, or a hearty potato gratin.

Remember, the key is to create a visually appealing and flavourful spread that enhances the festive atmosphere, making every bite a celebration of the season.

This festive recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Strips with Christmas Stuffing offers a wonderful blend of tradition and convenience, making it a standout choice for festive meals. The air fryer ensures a perfect crispy texture, while the festive stuffing imbues each bite with seasonal cheer.

For those looking to customise the recipe, there are plenty of options. Swap out chicken for turkey strips to embrace another Christmas favourite, or mix in some Parmesan cheese to the stuffing for an extra layer of savoury goodness. You could also experiment with different herbs and spices to craft a unique flavour profile that reflects your personal tastes. A touch of rosemary or some finely chopped dried fruit, such as apricots or figs, could provide an interesting twist.

If you prefer a gluten-free option, simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs in the stuffing mixture. For a healthier alternative, consider using wholemeal breadcrumbs and adding some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the stuffing for added nutrients and colour.

These chicken strips can also be adapted for different occasions beyond Christmas. Adjust the spices and herbs to fit other seasonal celebrations, making this versatile recipe a staple in your cooking repertoire year-round.

Pairing these chicken strips with a variety of side dishes and sauces, as previously suggested, allows you to create a well-rounded and festive meal. Whether served as a main course or part of a larger Christmas spread, these air-fried chicken strips are sure to bring joy and satisfaction to any gathering.

If you make this dish, why not send me a picture on Instagram using the #acountrygirlskitchen so I can go over and show it some love.

I hope you all have a wonderful day.

*Chefs Kiss*