Description
Crispy Southern fried chicken burgers deliver a mouthwatering southern comfort classic with golden-brown breaded perfection. Juicy chicken nestled between buttery buns promises a delectable meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 2 pounds or 907 grams)
- 5 ounces (142 grams) extra sharp yellow cheddar cheese (grated)
- 5 ounces (142 grams) extra sharp white cheddar cheese (grated)
Coating and Seasoning:
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 quart (0.95 liters) peanut oil (for frying)
Additional Components and Condiments:
- 4 brioche buns (toasted)
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup minced roasted red peppers or pimentos
- 1/4 cup hot & smoky bacon chutney
Instructions
- Infuse chicken thighs with a tangy buttermilk and hot sauce bath, allowing the meat to tenderize and absorb robust flavors for a minimum of half an hour.
- Craft a zesty coleslaw by whisking together creamy mayonnaise, sharp vinegar, and a touch of sweetness, then thoroughly coating crisp shredded cabbage and carrots until well integrated.
- Develop a rich pimento cheese spread by blending grated cheeses with vibrant minced red peppers, creamy mayonnaise, and a balanced blend of red and black pepper for complex depth.
- Create a seasoned flour dredging mixture combining flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, garlic, and onion powder to form a textured coating for the marinated chicken.
- Carefully remove chicken from marinade, generously season with additional salt, then meticulously coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet to precisely 350°F, creating the ideal environment for achieving a golden, crispy exterior while maintaining juicy interior.
- Gently lower battered chicken into hot oil, frying until deep golden brown and thoroughly cooked, approximately 4-5 minutes per side, maintaining a consistent temperature for optimal crispness.
- Transfer freshly fried chicken to a wire rack, allowing excess oil to drain and maintaining the crisp texture.
- Lightly toast brioche buns under the broiler to add a delicate crunch and enhance their flavor profile.
- Assemble the burger by spreading bacon chutney on the bottom bun, layering the crispy chicken thigh, dolloping pimento cheese, and crowning with tangy coleslaw.
- Serve immediately to preserve the perfect temperature and textural contrast of the burger components.
Notes
- Tenderize chicken thighs thoroughly by pounding them to an even thickness, ensuring consistent cooking and crispy exterior.
- Experiment with marinade by adding garlic powder, cayenne, or herbs to boost flavor complexity and create unique taste profiles.
- For gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour or cornmeal, which provides extra crunch and maintains crispy texture.
- Control oil temperature carefully during frying, using a thermometer to maintain consistent 350°F, preventing greasy or undercooked chicken.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern (American)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 754
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 1315 mg
- Fat: 44 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg