Copycat Chicken Crispers with Honey Chipotle Dipping Sauce Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 8 servings.

For the Chicken Crispers:

• 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 1 1/2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 4 cups vegetable oil for frying (or as needed)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 chipotle pepper, finely chopped, plus 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the can
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into strips, each about 3 inches long.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, stir together the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken strips and toss until they are fully coated in the mixture. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: While the chicken is marinating, pour vegetable oil into a large saucepan or deep skillet to a depth of about 4 inches. Heat the oil to 350F (180C).

Step 4: In a large shallow dish, whisk together the flour, kosher salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking powder until well combined.

Step 5: Remove each chicken strip from the buttermilk mixture, and lightly coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Return the chicken to the buttermilk mixture and give it a second coat of the flour mixture. Set the coated chicken aside on a plate. Repeat this process with all the chicken pieces.

Step 6: Working in batches, carefully place the coated chicken strips into the hot oil. Fry the chicken, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.

Step 7: For the sauce, whisk together the barbecue sauce, chopped chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, and honey in a small bowl. Season with salt to taste.

Step 8: Serve the crispy chicken strips with the sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts (per serving)	Amount
Calories	466
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	98mg
Sodium	852mg
Total Carbohydrate	40g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	14g
Protein	40g
Vitamin C	2mg
Calcium	119mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	472mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History of Chicken Crispers

Chicken Crispers, as we know them today, originated as a modern take on classic fried chicken. While fried chicken has roots tracing back centuries, particularly in the Southern United States, the idea of "crispy tenders" gained popularity in fast-food chains during the late 20th century. Restaurants sought a uniform, easy-to-eat version of fried chicken that could be dipped, shared, or served as an appetizer. The honey chipotle twist is a more recent innovation, combining smoky, spicy flavors with a sweet counterbalance, reflecting contemporary tastes for bold and layered sauces.

Regional Variations

Although fried chicken is universally popular in the U.S., the version with honey chipotle sauce has a distinctly Southwestern influence. In Texas and New Mexico, chipotle peppers and smoky spices are commonly used to enhance chicken dishes. Meanwhile, Southern variations might favor buttermilk marinades with more traditional spice blends like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. Even internationally, similar fried chicken tenders exist in Korea, Japan, and the U.K., each incorporating local flavorsfrom gochujang sauces in Korea to curry-seasoned coatings in the U.K.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Chicken Crispers differ from classic fried chicken in several ways. First, they are cut into uniform strips, ensuring even frying and a consistently crunchy exterior. The double-dredging techniqueflour coating, then back into buttermilk, and flour againcreates a lighter yet crunchier crust compared to thicker Southern-style fried chicken. Unlike chicken nuggets, which are usually ground or mechanically processed, Chicken Crispers maintain whole chicken breast strips, offering a more tender bite and a meatier texture.

Where They Are Typically Served

Chicken Crispers are highly versatile and are often found in casual dining restaurants, fast-food chains, and sports bars. They are served as appetizers, lunch or dinner entrees, and sometimes in party platters. The honey chipotle dipping sauce adds an element of sophistication, making the dish suitable for gatherings or family meals. They pair well with fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad, appealing to both children and adults.

Interesting Facts

The combination of honey and chipotle is a balance of opposites: sweetness and heat, which creates a flavor profile known as contrasting taste harmony. The dishs popularity surged as social media food trends highlighted visually appealing, finger-friendly foods. Interestingly, the concept of marinating chicken in buttermilk isnt just for flavorit tenderizes the meat, making even lean breast cuts juicy and succulent. Also, double-frying techniques similar to this recipe are used in professional kitchens to maintain crunchiness without overcooking the chicken.

FAQ about Copycat Chicken Crispers with Honey Chipotle Dipping Sauce Recipe