Summer is all about burgers and kebabs or grills. And, while we do love our classic hamburgers, there is nothing like a nice crispy yet juicy chicken burger. The truth is that I use the same crispy chicken thighs I make all year round and stack them in my hamburger buns with our favorite burger toppings and sides. It’s an absolute treat. And yet, guess what, a lot more healthy!
Crispy fried chicken (baked)
Preheat your oven to 425°F / 220°C / Gas Mark 6. Marinate – In a large bowl, combine the egg mixture ingredients with a whisk until smooth. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well with the mixture. Leave to marinate for 15 minutes on the counter or overnight in the fridge.Pro tip – Ensure the chicken pieces are dry before you add them to the marinade. Otherwise, the marinade will not stick to the chicken.
Breadcrumb mixture – On a shallow plate, add all the breadcrumb ingredients. Stir to combine. Coat – Using a fork, pick one piece of chicken from the egg mixture and drop it into the breadcrumb mixture. Dredge it well, making sure to coat it well on all sides. Pick it up and dust off excess.Pro tip – Ensure the chicken is well coated in the egg mixture before you pick it up from the bowl. That way, you will have a nice even coating.
Tray – Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Please make sure to leave some space between them for air circulation. Bake – Next, transfer the chicken to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.Pro tip – The internal temperature on a meat thermometer reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Assemble
Prep – While the chicken is baking, slice and toast the hamburger buns and set aside. Wash and prepare any desired toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, or sauces. Rest – Once the chicken pieces are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sandwich – Assemble the crispy chicken sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise or your preferred sauce on the bottom bun. Place a chicken on the sauce, followed by your desired toppings. Then, add the top bun. Serve the baked crispy chicken sandwich burgers immediately, and enjoy! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding spices or herbs to the breading mixture or incorporating different sauces or seasonings into the sandwich. Enjoy your homemade crispy chicken sandwich burger!
Frequently asked questions
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First of all, the breading is perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices that elevates the flavor of the chicken without overpowering it. Secondly, the breading is not too thick. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy on the inside while achieving that ideal level of crispiness on the outside. Lastly, baking gives the sandwich a satisfying crunch without making it overly greasy, which usually happens when you deep fry chicken. But it’s not just about the breading and cooking method; the components that make up the rest of the sandwich are equally important. The bun is toasted to perfection, allowing it to hold up to the juicy chicken and toppings without getting soggy. The toppings – whether a classic slaw or spicy sauce, carefully choose your favorite to complement the flavors of the chicken and add an extra layer of texture. It is the perfect recipe to add to your BBQ party; after all, some guests prefer to have a healthier option. Right?
A flour-based coating works great when deep frying the chicken because flour gets wonderfully crisp in the hot oil and receives a lovely brown color, unlike breadcrumbs, which ruin and burn in oil easily. Since we will bake these in the oven, the best way to get a nice crisp crust is to use breadcrumbs. Breadcrumbs not only go crisp but also become nice and golden brown, which looks very pleasing to the eye. Also, if you plan to use an air fryer, a breadcrumb would also be the best coating.
Baked crispy chicken involves coating the chicken in oil and baking it on a sheet pan until it’s crisp and cooked, just as I have done today. This can be a healthier option as it uses less fat, but it may not yield the same level of crunch as frying. Air fryer chicken sandwich – Prepare the chicken as above. Spray with vegetable oil and then bake on the wire rack in a preheated air fryer at 375°F/190°C/ Gas Mark 5. Crispy fried chicken sandwich – This method involves heating oil in a pot and frying the chicken until it’s crispy and golden brown. While this can be a delicious option, it can also be messy and time-consuming.
Ultimately, the best cooking method will depend on your personal preferences and the equipment you have available. Whichever method you choose, make sure to keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from overcooking and becoming dry.
From traditional lettuce and tomato to spicy mayo or honey mustard, the options are endless. Experiment with different textures and flavors to create a personalized sandwich that satisfies your cravings. Consider adding a little crunch with bacon or onion rings, or even some sweetness with caramelized onions or pineapple. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different toppings to create a unique flavor profile. Remember, the toppings are just as crucial as the chicken in delivering a mouth-watering sandwich. When it comes to sauces, the sky’s the limit. Barbeque, ranch, chipotle, and aioli are all excellent options to add extra flavor to your sandwich. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with homemade sauces or hot sauce for an added kick.
French fries are a classic choice that pair well with any sandwich. If you want something a little different, try sweet potato fries or tater tots for a fun twist. Onion rings are another great option that add a satisfying crunch. A side salad is always a good choice if you want to add some greens to your meal. A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the sandwich. For a heartier option, consider serving your chicken sandwich with a warm bowl of soup. Tomato soup or chicken noodle soup are both comforting choices that will make your meal feel complete.
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