Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into small thin tenders (or chicken tenderloins)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Wet Batter:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Ranch Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ranch Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, yellow mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to create the ranch sauce. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow and wide bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk to combine and set aside.
- Prepare the Wet Batter: In a deep bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Double Coating for Chicken: Take 3 tablespoons of the wet batter and add it into the dry flour mixture. Mix to create a flaky texture. Dip each chicken tender first into the wet batter, then into the dry flour mixture, then back into the wet batter, and finally into the dry mixture again for a double coating. Ensure to let any excess wet or dry drip off before dipping into the next coating. Once all tenders are breaded, allow them to rest for 10 minutes.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a frying pan to about 365°F (185°C), about 1.5 to 2 inches high. Carefully drop the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry in two batches if needed. Fry until golden brown all around, approximately 7-8 minutes, rotating the tenders as needed for even browning. Once done, transfer the fried chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Assemble the Snack Wraps: Take a warm tortilla wrap and spread a generous amount of the prepared ranch sauce in the center. Place a few pieces of fried chicken tenders on top of the sauce. Optionally, add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese for added flavor and texture. Roll up the tortilla tightly, folding in the sides as you go, to form a wrap.
- Serve: Serve the McDonald’s-Style Chicken Snack Wraps immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. Enjoy!
These delicious homemade snack wraps are reminiscent of the ones you’d find at McDonald’s but with the satisfaction of having made them yourself!
Here are some helpful tips to make your McDonald’s Style Chicken Snack Wrap even more delightful:
- Marinate the Chicken: Before breading and frying the chicken, consider marinating it in buttermilk seasoned with herbs and spices for a few hours or overnight. This will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with extra flavor.
- Add Seasonings to the Flour Mixture: Enhance the flavor of the breading by adding additional seasonings such as onion powder, smoked paprika, or dried herbs like thyme or parsley to the flour mixture. This will give the chicken a more robust flavor profile.
- Double-Breading Technique: For an extra crispy coating, double-bread the chicken tenders by dipping them in the wet batter and flour mixture twice before frying. This creates a thicker and crunchier crust that holds up well in the wrap.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an even crispier texture, substitute some or all of the flour mixture with Panko breadcrumbs. Panko creates a lighter and airier coating that results in a crispier chicken.
- Add Cheese Inside the Wrap: Consider adding a slice of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, inside the wrap along with the chicken. The melted cheese adds a creamy texture and extra flavor to the wrap.
- Customize the Ranch Sauce: Personalize the ranch sauce by adding additional ingredients like chopped fresh herbs (such as dill or chives), a squeeze of lemon juice, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. This allows you to tailor the sauce to your taste preferences.
- Toast the Tortilla: Before assembling the wrap, lightly toast the tortilla in a dry skillet or on a griddle for a few seconds on each side. This adds a slight crispiness and enhances the flavor of the wrap.
- Incorporate Fresh Ingredients: Add freshness and crunch to the wrap by including ingredients like sliced avocado, crispy lettuce, diced onions, or sliced bell peppers. These fresh additions complement the creamy ranch sauce and crispy chicken.
- Wrap Tightly: When assembling the wrap, make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent any fillings from falling out. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up firmly to keep everything intact.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce: Accompany the McDonald’s Style Chicken Snack Wraps with additional dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or sriracha mayo for added flavor and variety.
By incorporating these tips, you can elevate your McDonald’s Style Chicken Snack Wraps to a whole new level of deliciousness and enjoy a homemade version that rivals the original!
Here are some secrets to help you achieve perfection:
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure that the chicken is cooked to perfection—juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Maintain the oil temperature at around 365°F (185°C) throughout frying to achieve golden-brown, crispy chicken tenders.
- Balanced Flavors: Achieve a balance of flavors by seasoning the chicken generously with salt and pepper before breading. The seasoning should complement the creamy ranch sauce and other ingredients in the wrap.
- Creamy Ranch Sauce Consistency: Make sure the ranch sauce has a smooth and creamy consistency. Adjust the ratio of mayonnaise to buttermilk to achieve the desired thickness. You can also add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.
- Even Coating: Ensure an even coating of breading on the chicken by using the double-breading technique. Dip the chicken tenders first in the wet batter, then in the flour mixture, and repeat for a second coating. This helps create a crispier exterior.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients, such as crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and soft tortillas, to enhance the overall taste and texture of the wrap. Opt for locally sourced or organic ingredients for the best flavor.
- Proper Tortilla Wrapping: Assemble the wrap carefully to prevent any fillings from spilling out. Start by placing the chicken tenders in the center of the tortilla, followed by the ranch sauce and any additional toppings. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly to create a secure wrap.
- Resting Time: Allow the breaded chicken tenders to rest for about 10 minutes before frying. This allows the breading to adhere properly to the chicken and prevents it from falling off during frying.
- Freshly Prepared: Serve the McDonald’s Style Chicken Snack Wrap immediately after assembling to ensure maximum freshness and crispiness. Avoid letting the wrap sit for too long before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Temperature Control: Maintain the oil temperature at a consistent level throughout frying to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
- Presentation: Present the Chicken Snack Wrap neatly and attractively by cutting it in half diagonally and serving it with a side of extra ranch sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an added touch of elegance.
By following these secrets, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect McDonald’s Style Chicken Snack Wrap that rivals the taste and quality of the fast-food version!
