Are you looking for a fun, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dinner recipe? Look no further! These chicken lollipops are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. They're crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe provides a delicious, healthy meal that’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by carefully separating the chicken thighs from the bone, leaving about 1 inch of bone attached at the top to create the lollipop shape. This is easier than it sounds; just use a sharp knife and follow the natural bone structure.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Generously season both sides of the chicken thighs with this spice mixture.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, put the beaten egg. In the third, place the panko bread crumbs. Dip each chicken lollipop into the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, and finally, coat thoroughly in the panko bread crumbs. Gently press the crumbs to ensure they adhere well.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Lollipops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken lollipops in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken lollipops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These delicious chicken lollipops are fantastic on their own or served with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Lollipops:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy chicken instead of crispy chicken lollipops. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature, preventing foodborne illness.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Lollipops: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the spice mixture.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Lollipops: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the panko bread crumbs for extra flavor.
- Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Lollipops: After cooking, toss the chicken lollipops in a mixture of honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
Nutritional Information (per lollipop, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
These easy recipes for healthy meals are perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your delicious and crispy chicken lollipops! They are sure to become a new favorite in your repertoire of best recipes.