If you are craving that perfect union of juicy, tender chicken wrapped in an irresistibly crunchy coating, look no further than this Crispy Fried Chicken Burger (Ultimate Juicy & Crunchy Comfort Food) Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines bold seasoning, a double-dipped crunchy crust, and the soft, buttery embrace of brioche buns. This recipe hits all the right notes, delivering comfort and excitement in every mouthwatering bite—you’re not just making a sandwich, you’re creating a memorable experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is as much about simplicity as it is about flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and color that make the burger sing. From the tangy buttermilk marinade infusing juiciness, to the seasoned flour and cornstarch blend crafting that perfect crunch, every element is essential.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for more juiciness and tender meat, and pound to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes and imparts tang, creating a moist interior.
- Hot sauce (optional): Adds a gentle kick and depth to the marinade.
- Garlic powder: Brings savory warmth to both marinade and breading.
- Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a beautiful color to the crust.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite.
- All-purpose flour & cornstarch: A combo that guarantees an ultra-crispy coating.
- Vegetable oil: For frying to golden perfection.
- Brioche or hamburger buns: Soft, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to hold all that deliciousness.
- Mayonnaise or aioli: Adds creamy richness and moisture.
- Shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, tomato slices: Fresh textures and vibrant colors for balance.
- Cheese slices (optional): Melted cheese adds a luscious layer of flavor.
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken Burger (Ultimate Juicy & Crunchy Comfort Food) Recipe
Step 1: Marinate Your Chicken to Perfection
Start by creating a marinade from buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a subtle spicy and savory character. Immerse your pounded chicken pieces in this marinade, cover, and let them rest in the fridge for at least one hour or overnight if you have the time. This step is crucial for juicy, full-flavored meat that stays moist after frying.
Step 2: Prepare the Crunchy Breading Mix
In another bowl, blend all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and your seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. The combination of flour and cornstarch is your secret weapon here: it creates a crust that’s crunchy without being heavy, providing that satisfying crunch you crave in a fried chicken burger.
Step 3: Double-Dip for Maximum Crunch
Remove each chicken piece from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off gently to avoid soggy batter. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture and press it firmly to coat evenly. For an unbeatable crunch, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk marinade and dredge again in the flour blend. This double-dip technique results in a thicker, crunchier crust that stays crispy through every bite.
Step 4: Fry to Golden, Juicy Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to a steady 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken pieces into the oil and fry for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You’re aiming for a beautiful golden brown color with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness. Once fried, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil and retain its crispiness.
Step 5: Assemble Your Dream Burger
Lightly toast the buns until just golden and spread mayonnaise or aioli on both halves to add creaminess and balance the crispy chicken’s texture. Layer shredded lettuce, tangy pickles, and fresh tomato slices for brightness. Nestle the crispy fried chicken on the bottom bun, add cheese slices if desired, then crown it with the top bun. Serve immediately for the ultimate juicy and crunchy experience.
How to Serve Crispy Fried Chicken Burger (Ultimate Juicy & Crunchy Comfort Food) Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple garnish that adds a fresh, crisp bite, opt for shredded iceberg lettuce or butter lettuce. Pickles are indispensable here—they offer an acidic crunch that cuts through the richness. Adding ripe, thin-sliced tomatoes lends juiciness and a dash of vibrant color. A smear of spicy mayo or garlic aioli can also elevate your burger to gourmet levels.
Side Dishes
No crispy fried chicken burger is complete without sides that complement its hearty flavors. Classic choices like golden fries or sweet potato wedges pair wonderfully to continue that satisfying crunch theme. For a lighter side, try a crisp coleslaw or a fresh green salad with zesty vinaigrette to balance out the meal’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at your next casual gathering? Serve the burgers open-faced on stylish slate boards topped with microgreens or fresh herbs, adding a pop of color and elegance. Alternatively, wrap each burger individually in parchment paper tied with twine for a playful, street-food vibe that’s perfect for easy handling and sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If there are any leftovers, store the chicken and buns separately in airtight containers to preserve textures. The chicken will stay juicy, but remember to keep the crust intact by avoiding soggy storage methods. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 2 to 3 days for best quality.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked crispy fried chicken pieces by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal taste and texture. Avoid freezing assembled burgers as buns tend to become soggy upon thawing.
Reheating
To regain that incredible crunch when reheating, use an oven or air fryer around 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid microwaving as it will make the crust soggy and the chicken less appetizing. Toast the buns separately to retain their softness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, especially if pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking. However, thighs tend to be juicier and slightly more forgiving, making them ideal for this recipe’s rich, crispy style.
Is it necessary to double-dip the chicken in the marinade and flour?
Double-dipping is not required but highly recommended. It creates a thicker, extra crunchy coating that stays crispy longer and offers a satisfying texture contrast to the tender chicken inside.
What oil is best for frying the chicken burger?
Vegetable oil is great for frying due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point. You can also use canola or peanut oil, which handle high temperatures well and ensure the chicken fries evenly and crisply.
Can I add cheese to this burger?
Yes! Adding cheese slices like cheddar, American, or pepper jack melts beautifully on the hot fried chicken, adding gooey richness and extra flavor complexity.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least one hour for tenderness and flavor, but for best results, marinate overnight. This allows the buttermilk and spices to deeply infuse into the meat, creating the ultimate juicy bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about biting into a Crispy Fried Chicken Burger (Ultimate Juicy & Crunchy Comfort Food) Recipe that delivers an unbeatable combination of textures and flavors. This recipe balances simple ingredients with expert technique to create a home-cooked meal you’ll want to revisit again and again. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to a juicy, crunchy feast that feels like a warm hug in every bite!
Print
Crispy Fried Chicken Burger (Ultimate Juicy & Crunchy Comfort Food) Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus at least 1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 2 chicken burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Crispy Fried Chicken Burger is the ultimate comfort food, featuring juicy, marinated chicken thighs coated in a perfectly seasoned, crunchy breading and fried to golden perfection. Served on toasted brioche buns with fresh lettuce, pickles, and optional cheese and tomato, it’s a deliciously satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For frying:
- Vegetable oil (enough to deep or shallow fry)
For the burger assembly:
- 2 brioche or hamburger buns
- Mayonnaise or aioli
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced pickles
- Tomato slices (optional)
- Cheese slices (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix buttermilk with hot sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to marinate, allowing the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
- Prepare breading mixture: In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a well-seasoned coating for the chicken.
- Coat the chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure an even coat. For extra crunch, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and dredge again in the flour mixture for a thick, crispy crust.
- Fry the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry chicken pieces for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Assemble the burgers: Lightly toast the brioche buns. Spread mayonnaise or aioli on each half. Layer with shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and tomato slices if desired. Add the crispy fried chicken and cheese slices if using. Cover with the top bun and serve immediately while hot and crunchy.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness compared to breasts.
- Double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour mixture for a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Customize your burger with favorite sauces, slaws, or additional toppings for a gourmet twist.
