This Crispy Chicken Burger recipe is the result of a personal quest to create a truly restaurant-quality burger at home. I was tired of soggy, mediocre takeout and was determined to crack the code for a shatteringly crisp coating and a perfectly juicy fillet. This recipe is that solution, and it’s easier than you think!
This isn’t just any homemade burger. We’re talking about a perfectly seasoned chicken fillet that stays incredibly juicy on the inside, while the outside has an earth-shatteringly loud crunch.
That perfect combination makes this recipe a true winner. Forget mediocre results and get ready to create a truly unforgettable Crispy Chicken Burger right in your own kitchen!
The Secret to a Juicy, Tender Chicken Fillet
The magic of a truly great Crispy Chicken Burger is a fillet that stays incredibly juicy while the outside is super crispy. We achieve this with two simple “hacks”. First, pounding the chicken to an even ½-inch thickness is non-negotiable. It ensures the chicken cooks quickly and evenly without drying out. Second, the buttermilk marinade is a game-changer. The enzymes in buttermilk tenderize the chicken, guaranteeing a soft, juicy bite every time. Don’t skip it!
The Ultimate “Special Sauce” Hack
Every great burger joint has a secret sauce, and now you can too! For a quick and delicious burger sauce that tastes like it’s from a restaurant, simply mix these three ingredients together in a small bowl. This sauce is the perfect complement to your homemade Crispy Chicken Burger:
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of ketchup
- 1 teaspoon of pickle relish or finely chopped dill pickles
A Closer Look at the Key Ingredients
A truly great burger is all about the quality of its components. Here’s a little more about the key players in this recipe:
- The Chicken: We recommend boneless, skinless chicken breast because it’s lean and provides a great texture. Pounding it to an even thickness is crucial. For an even juicier, more flavorful fillet, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- The Buns: Don’t underestimate the importance of a good bun! We love brioche buns for this recipe because their rich, buttery flavor complements the crispy chicken perfectly. A soft potato roll is another fantastic choice. Always remember to toast them for the best texture.
- The Crispy Coating: The secret “hack” for the shatteringly crisp coating is the cornstarch. Mixing cornstarch with the all-purpose flour creates a lighter, crispier crust that stays crunchy for longer than a flour-only coating.
- The Cheese: A slice of American cheese is the classic choice for a reason—it has the perfect “meltiness.” If you prefer a stronger flavor, a sharp cheddar also works beautifully.
The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Burger (Ready in About 30 Minutes!)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them with a meat mallet to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Marinate in ButtermilkPlace the pounded chicken in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over it. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to a few hours in the fridge for extra tender results).
- Mix the Dry CoatingIn a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Heat the OilPour about 1-2 inches of oil into your heavy-bottomed pot. Heat it over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat the ChickenTake a piece of chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks. Shake off any excess.
- Fry the ChickenCarefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-6 minutes on each side, until it’s a deep golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Melt CheeseRemove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain. Immediately place a slice of cheese on top of the hot chicken so it melts perfectly.
- oast the BunsWhile the chicken is resting, lightly toast the brioche buns in a pan with a little butter until golden.
- Assemble Your Burger!Spread mayonnaise on the toasted buns. Place the crispy chicken on the bottom bun, add your pickle slices, and finish with the top bun. Serve immediately!
Notes
How to Make it a Spicy Chicken Burger
If you like some heat, it’s very easy to turn this into a Spicy Crispy Chicken Burger. You have two great options:
- Add a Kick to the Coating: Mix ½ to 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper into your flour mixture.
- Spice up the Marinade: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or Tabasco) to the buttermilk marinade for a deeper, more integrated heat.
Storing and Reheating for Maximum Crunch
Got leftovers? Whatever you do, avoid the microwave! It will make that beautiful crispy coating soggy in seconds. The best way to store and reheat your crispy chicken is:
- To Store: Let the cooked Crispy Chicken Burger fillets cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To Reheat: For maximum crunch, reheat the chicken fillets in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 4-5 minutes. An oven also works well; place them on a rack and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes.
Love Crispy, Flavor-Packed Recipes?
If you had fun making this ultimate crispy burger, you are going to absolutely love our recipe for Easy Crispy Chicken Samosas! They have the same satisfying crunch and are the perfect snack or appetizer for any party.
More Restaurant-Style Favorites
If you loved making this ultimate burger, you are going to be obsessed with our recipe for The Best Italian Meatballs! They are incredibly juicy and simmered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce.
Did you make this recipe? Let us know how it went! Please leave a comment and a star rating below. You can also share your masterpiece with us on Instagram @viralfoodhacks. We love seeing your creations!
Nicely done and thanks for everything you do for us.
Nicely done and thanks for everything you doing for us.
this is to much yummy 😋🤤