Savory Oven-Dried Chicken Jerky
Satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make oven-dried chicken jerky recipe. Perfect for road trips, hiking adventures, or simply as a healthy snack, this jerky offers a wonderful burst of flavor without the need for traditional smoking methods. You can substitute boneless skinless turkey or venison for even more variety. Packed with protein and seasoned to perfection, this jerky is not only delicious but a smart choice for maintaining an active lifestyle.
N/A
Servings
180
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breast
1 lb (cut into 1/8 inch strips or cubes)
tenderizing salt (e.g., Morton's Tenderquick)
2 1/4 teaspoons (mixed with other seasonings)
pickling salt
2 1/4 teaspoons (mixed with other seasonings)
garlic powder
1 1/2 teaspoons (mixed with other seasonings)
black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons (mixed with other seasonings)
onion powder
1 teaspoon (mixed with other seasonings)
seasoning salt
1 teaspoon (mixed with other seasonings)
crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon (mixed with other seasonings)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine the tenderizing salt, pickling salt, garlic powder, pepper, onion powder, seasoning salt, and optional crushed red pepper flakes or cajun seasoning.
2
Preheat your oven to 150°F (65°C). This low temperature will help dry the meat evenly.
3
Trim any excess fat from the chicken and cut it into strips about 1/8 inch thick, or into 1/8 inch cubes for bite-sized pieces. Uniformity in size will ensure even drying.
4
Lay the chicken strips or cubes on a clean cutting board. Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over each piece. Using a meat mallet, rolling pin, or flat pan, pound the seasonings into the chicken to adhere well. Turn the chicken over and repeat the process on the other side.
5
Arrange the seasoned chicken strips in a single layer on an oven-safe metal cooling rack. Use a fine mesh or closely spaced bars to prevent pieces from falling through.
6
Place the rack in the oven and dry the chicken for 4 to 5 hours, or until the jerky is dry but still pliable. Make sure to rearrange the pieces halfway through to promote even drying.
7
After drying, remove the jerky from the oven and let it cool completely before storing.
8
For best storage, refrigerate your jerky in an airtight container, where it can last for weeks.
Nutrition Information
4g
Fat
3g
Carbs
35g
Protein
0g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Oven-Dried Chicken Jerky?
Savory Oven-Dried Chicken Jerky is a high-protein, flavorful snack made by seasoning thin strips of chicken breast and drying them in the oven at a low temperature.
How do I make chicken jerky in the oven?
To make chicken jerky in the oven, season thin strips of chicken, place them on a cooling rack, and dry them at 150°F (65°C) for several hours until pliable.
What temperature should the oven be set to for drying chicken jerky?
The oven should be preheated to 150°F (65°C) to ensure the meat dries evenly and safely.
How long does it take to dry chicken jerky in the oven?
It typically takes between 4 to 5 hours for the jerky to become dry but remain pliable.
What are the main seasonings for this chicken jerky?
The seasonings include tenderizing salt, pickling salt, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and seasoning salt.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this jerky recipe?
Yes, boneless skinless turkey is an excellent substitute for chicken in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this jerky with venison?
Yes, venison can be used as a substitute for chicken for a different flavor variety.
How thick should I cut the chicken strips?
Chicken should be cut into strips approximately 1/8 inch thick to ensure uniform drying.
Why is tenderizing salt used in this recipe?
Tenderizing salt, such as Morton's Tenderquick, helps in the curing process and adds flavor to the jerky.
Should I remove the fat from the chicken before drying?
Yes, you should trim any excess fat from the chicken before slicing to improve the shelf life and texture of the jerky.
How do I ensure the chicken jerky dries evenly?
Ensure the pieces are uniform in size and rearrange them on the rack halfway through the drying process.
What equipment is needed to make oven-dried jerky?
You will need a small mixing bowl, a clean cutting board, a meat mallet or rolling pin, and an oven-safe metal cooling rack.
Can I make bite-sized chicken jerky?
Yes, you can cut the chicken into 1/8 inch cubes instead of strips for bite-sized jerky pieces.
How do I get the seasoning to stick to the chicken?
After sprinkling the seasoning over the chicken, use a meat mallet, rolling pin, or flat pan to pound the mixture into the meat.
Is chicken jerky a healthy snack option?
Yes, it is a smart choice for an active lifestyle as it is high in protein and low in fat.
How much protein is in one serving of this chicken jerky?
Each serving contains approximately 35 grams of protein.
How many calories are in this savory chicken jerky?
There are approximately 180 calories per serving of this chicken jerky.
Is this chicken jerky recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, this recipe contains only 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
How should I store homemade chicken jerky?
For best results, store the jerky in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated.
How long does homemade chicken jerky last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the jerky can last for several weeks.
Can I make the jerky spicy?
Yes, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or cajun seasoning to the spice mix for extra heat.
What type of salt should I use for jerky?
This recipe calls for a combination of tenderizing salt and pickling salt for the best results.
Do I need a smoker to make this jerky?
No, this recipe is designed specifically for a standard oven, eliminating the need for a smoker.
Why use a cooling rack instead of a baking sheet?
Using a cooling rack allows air to circulate around all sides of the meat, which is essential for proper drying.
Should I flip the jerky during the drying process?
While the recipe suggests rearranging the pieces halfway through, the use of a rack generally allows for even drying without needing to flip every piece.
How do I know when the jerky is fully dried?
The jerky is ready when it feels dry to the touch but remains pliable and doesn't snap.
Is this jerky suitable for road trips?
Yes, it is a perfect snack for road trips because it is portable, mess-free, and satisfying.
Is chicken jerky good for hiking?
Absolutely, its high protein content and lightweight nature make it an ideal snack for hiking adventures.
What cut of chicken is best for jerky?
Boneless skinless chicken breast is the best cut to use because it is lean and easy to slice.
Is there any sugar in this jerky recipe?
No, this recipe does not include any added sugars, making it a savory snack option.