Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious, but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This fried panko chicken recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to experience the satisfying crunch of panko breadcrumbs and the tender, flavorful chicken within – it's a truly unforgettable homemade cooking experience. This recipe is a delicious dish, easily adaptable, and one of the best recipes you’ll ever try.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started: Prepare Your Chicken
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Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a crispy crust. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
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Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
The Breadcrumbing Process: Three's the Charm
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Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
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Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
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Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
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Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help them adhere.
Frying Time: Golden Brown Perfection
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Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of panko sizzles immediately.
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Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Work in batches if necessary.
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Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Remove the fried chicken from the pan and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Meal
Serve your crispy panko chicken immediately. It's fantastic on its own, but you can also pair it with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a spicy mayo. A side of fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad complements this delicious dish perfectly.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy chicken: Let the breaded chicken rest for 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator before frying. This allows the breading to set, resulting in an even crispier crust.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb it up: Incorporate some dried herbs like Italian seasoning or oregano into the breading for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it healthier: Bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. While it won’t be as crispy as fried chicken, it's a much healthier option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This fried panko chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the simple pleasure of a truly delicious and easy meal. Happy cooking!