There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden fried chicken burger. The crispy texture of the coating combined with the tender, juicy chicken breast makes for the perfect sandwich. If you love crispy chicken burgers, the Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burger is a recipe that you won’t want to miss. Not only does this burger deliver on crunch and flavor, but the buttermilk marinade makes the chicken extra tender and juicy, ensuring that each bite is an experience to remember.
Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping a chicken breast sandwich for a weeknight dinner, or just craving a delicious, crispy burger, this recipe is the ideal solution. It’s also a fantastic way to use leftover rolls to create a quick yet hearty meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into this ultimate crispy chicken burger recipe and explore the steps, ingredients, and variations you can try. We’ll also discuss the many ways you can serve your buttermilk chicken breast, the best chicken burgers sauce, and tips for making this burger your own.
Why Choose Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burger?
1. Buttermilk Makes the Chicken Extra Tender
The key to a crispy chicken burger is not just the coating but also the marination process. Buttermilk chicken is renowned for its ability to tenderize meat. The acidity in buttermilk breaks down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a juicy chicken breast that stays moist during frying. This makes the burger not only crispy on the outside but also wonderfully tender on the inside. The longer you marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture, the more flavorful and tender it will be.
2. Crispy and Flavorful Coating
The coating for the fried chicken burger plays a crucial role in providing that crispy chicken burgers experience. The buttermilk marinade allows the flour and seasoning to stick perfectly to the chicken, creating an irresistible crunch when fried. The spices and seasonings in the coating add depth of flavor, complementing the richness of the chicken and providing a savory bite with each mouthful.
3. Versatile and Customizable
The beauty of the crispy chicken burger recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to your tastes by adding various toppings and sauces, from fresh lettuce and tomato to spicy mayo or classic mustard. The chicken breast sandwich can be served with different types of rolls or buns, allowing you to adapt it based on what you have on hand. You can even make it healthier by using whole wheat rolls or adding extra veggies like pickles, onions, or avocado.
4. Perfect for Leftovers
Have some leftover rolls from a previous meal? These can be perfect for your fried chicken burger! Instead of throwing out those rolls, you can transform them into a delicious sandwich base, saving food and adding a little extra flair to your burger. A little toasting or grilling can bring out the flavor of the leftover rolls, making them an ideal vehicle for your crispy chicken.
Ingredients for Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burger
To make the buttermilk fried crispy chicken burger, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for the chicken and the burger assembly:
For the Buttermilk Chicken Marinade:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness for even cooking)
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk (this will tenderize the chicken and make it juicy)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder (adds depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (for savory richness)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smokiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt (season to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (freshly ground, for a little heat)
For the Crispy Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornmeal (for extra crunch)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick, optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (helps make the coating lighter)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil (enough for frying)
For Assembling the Burger:
- 4 burger buns or leftover rolls
- Lettuce (shredded, for freshness)
- Tomato slices (for juiciness)
- Pickles (optional, for tang)
- Cheese slices (optional, cheddar or American cheese work well)
- Chicken burgers sauce (homemade or store-bought, depending on your preference)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burger
Making buttermilk fried crispy chicken burger at home is surprisingly easy and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Follow these simple steps for the perfect crispy, juicy chicken burger.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the buttermilk chicken marinade. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Add the chicken breasts to the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour, though marinating overnight will provide even better flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the crispy coating. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the dry ingredients are well combined. Set the bowl aside.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat a large skillet or deep fryer over medium heat. Add enough vegetable oil or peanut oil to cover the bottom of the pan. The oil should be about 1-2 inches deep. Allow the oil to heat up to 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it—if it sizzles and turns golden brown in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken has finished marinating, remove it from the buttermilk mixture. Allow any excess marinade to drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in the prepared coating mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it’s evenly coated. For an extra crispy texture, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk mixture and coat it in the dry mixture again. This double coating helps achieve a thicker, crunchier crust.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully lower the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Assemble the Burger
While the chicken is cooling slightly, prepare your burger buns or leftover rolls. Lightly toast the buns in a pan or oven for added texture. If you’re using cheese, place a slice on each bun half and allow it to melt slightly.
Place a generous amount of lettuce on the bottom half of the bun, followed by a slice of tomato and any additional toppings like pickles. Top with the crispy buttermilk chicken breast. For a tangy finish, drizzle your favorite chicken burgers sauce over the chicken. Finally, cover with the top half of the bun.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burger is ready to serve! Enjoy it hot and crispy, paired with a side of fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh side salad. These burgers are great for lunch, dinner, or as a tasty treat for a weekend barbecue.
Variations and Customization Ideas
While the crispy chicken burger recipe is already packed with flavor, you can take it up a notch with a few variations. Here are some ideas for customizing your fried chicken burger:
1. Spicy Chicken Burger
If you like heat, try adding more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. You can also drizzle a spicy mayo or Sriracha sauce on the burger for extra spice. A jalapeño slice or chili flakes can also enhance the heat.
2. Vegan or Vegetarian Version
For a vegan or vegetarian option, you can swap the chicken breast for a plant-based chicken patty or crispy cauliflower. The same crispy coating and buttermilk batter can be used for cauliflower florets or a veggie burger patty to keep the burger flavorful and crunchy.
3. Cheese Options
To make your burger even richer, try adding cheddar, Swiss, or American cheese on top of the crispy chicken. The melted cheese creates a gooey, savory contrast with the crunchy chicken and soft bun.
4. Caramelized Onions
For a sweet and savory flavor, add caramelized onions to the burger. The soft, sweet onions will pair perfectly with the crispy chicken, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
Health Benefits of Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burger
While fried food may not always be associated with health, Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burgers can offer some health benefits when prepared at home with quality ingredients.
1. Protein-Packed Chicken
Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. Protein also helps keep you fuller for longer, making this burger a satisfying meal option.
2. Healthy Fats from Buttermilk
Buttermilk is a good source of healthy fats. It helps tenderize the chicken while contributing to a creamier, richer flavor. Unlike store-bought mayo or processed condiments, buttermilk is a natural, wholesome ingredient that adds a nutritional boost to the burger.
3. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Chicken is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and selenium, all of which play important roles in maintaining overall health, energy levels, and immune function.
Conclusion: A Delicious, Crispy, and Healthy Meal
The Buttermilk Fried Crispy Chicken Burger is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the savory goodness of crispy chicken breast with fresh, crunchy toppings and a soft bun. Whether you’re enjoying it with leftover rolls or as part of a larger meal, this burger delivers on both flavor and texture.
By making this fried chicken burger at home, you can control the ingredients and ensure that you’re getting the healthiest, most flavorful version. From the crispy coating to the tender buttermilk chicken breast, every element of this burger is carefully crafted to provide a satisfying and indulgent experience without compromising on taste or quality.
Try this recipe for your next family meal, weeknight dinner, or weekend BBQ—your taste buds will thank you!
