What is Chili’s chicken crisper recipe?

If you've ever had the pleasure of dining at Chili's, one item that likely stood out on the menu is their iconic Chicken Crispers. These are more than just your average chicken tenders; they are perfectly crispy on the outside while tender and juicy on the inside, all coated in a deliciously seasoned batter. Recreating this recipe at home may seem challenging, but with a few tips and the right ingredients, you can make a batch of Chicken Crispers that taste just like they’re straight from Chili’s.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Chili's-style Chicken Crispers at home, gather these ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Batter:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup cornstarch

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup cold water (add more if needed)

For Frying:

Vegetable oil or canola oil (enough for deep-frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Start by seasoning the chicken tenders with a little salt and pepper. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.

Make the Batter:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Gradually add cold water, stirring as you pour to create a smooth batter. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter—thick enough to coat the chicken but still pourable. If it’s too thick, add a bit more water.

Heat the Oil:

Pour enough oil into a deep fryer or large pot to submerge the chicken pieces fully. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.

Batter the Chicken:

Dip each chicken tender into the batter, making sure it's fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before placing the chicken in the hot oil.

Fry the Chicken:

Carefully drop the battered chicken tenders into the hot oil, a few pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding.

Fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy.

Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve with Dipping Sauces:

Chili’s Chicken Crispers are typically served with a variety of sauces, including ranch dressing, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce. You can make your own honey mustard at home by mixing equal parts of honey and mustard with a touch of mayo for creaminess.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Chili’s Chicken Crispers

Use Cold Water in the Batter:

The cold temperature of the water helps create a lighter, crispier texture when frying.

Double-Fry for Extra Crispiness:

If you want an extra-crispy coating, fry the chicken twice. After the first fry, let the chicken rest for a minute, then return it to the oil for a quick second fry.

Season Generously:

The seasoning in the batter is essential for getting that signature Chili’s taste. Don’t skimp on the spices.

Use Fresh Oil:

Since Chicken Crispers are all about the crispiness, using fresh oil helps ensure you get the best possible texture and flavor.

Variations on the Recipe

Spicy Crispers: Add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce to the batter for a spicier version.

Buttermilk Marinated Chicken: For extra juicy tenders, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least an hour before battering. This helps tenderize the chicken.

Gluten-Free Crispers: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and check that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Making Honey Mustard Sauce

One of the most popular dipping sauces for Chicken Crispers is honey mustard. To make it at home, you’ll need:

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

1/4 cup honey

1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the honey and mustard quantities to taste.

Chili's Chicken Crispers vs. Traditional Fried Chicken

Unlike traditional Southern fried chicken, which is often dredged in flour and egg before frying, Chili’s Chicken Crispers are batter-coated, giving them a smoother, more tempura-like texture. The batter contains cornstarch, which helps achieve that lighter, crispier coating. Additionally, the blend of spices in the batter gives it a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from most fried chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Chili's Chicken Crispers pair wonderfully with sides like French fries, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad. For a classic Chili's-style experience, serve them with corn on the cob and Texas toast. You can also use Chicken Crispers as a fun addition to sandwiches or wraps for a satisfying, homemade Chili's-inspired meal.

Storing and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the Chicken Crispers in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Final Thoughts

Making Chili's Chicken Crispers at home is a fun and rewarding project that brings the taste of your favorite restaurant meal right to your kitchen. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a batch of Chicken Crispers that rivals those from Chili's, complete with that irresistible crispy coating and tender, flavorful chicken inside. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a snack, these homemade Chicken Crispers are sure to be a hit with family and friends.