Crunchy Spicy Breaded Chicken

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: panko bread crumbs

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Panko provides a lighter texture, while crushed crackers are often less expensive.

hot sauce

🥗Healthier: sriracha

💰Cheaper: homemade hot sauce

Sriracha offers a similar flavor with less sodium, while homemade options can be more cost-effective.

chicken breasts

🥗Healthier: chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: chicken drumsticks

Thighs are juicier and often cheaper than breasts, while drumsticks are very budget-friendly.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Olive oil is healthier, while canola is often less expensive.

Prepare the ingredients: 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, 5 boneless skinless chicken thighs, and seasonings.

Pound the chicken thighs into thin pieces using a small cast iron pan and plastic wrap to keep the board clean.

Season the flour with 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Mix well.

In a bowl, add 2 large eggs, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons of hot sauce. Whisk together.

Season the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon cayenne, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Rub the spices into the chicken.

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan for frying.

Set up a breading station: coat chicken in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Optionally double dip for extra crunch.

Fry the chicken in the heated oil, about 5 minutes on each side for thighs, or 3 minutes for breasts, until golden brown.

If the chicken is thick and browned on the outside but not cooked inside, place on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 7-10 minutes to finish cooking.

Remove the chicken from the pan using tongs and drain excess oil.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens