Lean chicken jerky strips for the gym bag. Shelf-stable, high protein, and you can eat them walking from the parking lot to the squat rack.
Slice the chicken breast into thin, even strips about 1/4-inch thick for uniform dehydration and snacking.
Combine soy sauce, honey, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl to create the marinade.
Marinate the chicken strips for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator for maximum flavor and moisture control.
Preheat your oven to its lowest setting (around 170°F) or prepare a dehydrator. Arrange chicken strips on racks, keeping space between each to ensure proper airflow.
Dry the chicken strips for 2–3 hours in the oven or 4–5 hours in a dehydrator until fully dehydrated, flipping once midway for even drying. Chicken should be leathery but flexible, not brittle.
Let the jerky cool completely before storing in airtight bags or containers for optimal shelf stability.