Are you craving a crispy, flavorful chicken dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Rice Crispy Chicken recipe delivers a satisfying crunch with a tender, juicy interior. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and a fun recipe to try with the whole family. This recipe is a delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken, offering a healthier and equally satisfying experience. Get ready to enjoy this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup rice krispies cereal, finely crushed (you can use a food processor for even crumbs)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (for extra crunch!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup milk
- Vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for a healthier option)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
- Crush the cereal: Place the Rice Krispies in a zip-top bag and crush them finely using a rolling pin or food processor.
Bread the Chicken:
- Set up your breading station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, the beaten egg mixed with milk, and finally, the mixture of crushed Rice Krispies, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Bread each chicken breast: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the Rice Krispy mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the oil: Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. If you prefer a healthier option, lightly spray your skillet with cooking spray instead.
- Fry or bake: Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot skillet. If frying, cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Drain and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, crispy chicken!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the breading mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Italian seasoning, herbs de Provence, or even a little curry powder would be delicious additions.
- Cheese please: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the chicken before baking for an extra cheesy treat.
- Healthier option: Use a cooking spray instead of frying the chicken to reduce the fat content. You can also bake the chicken instead of frying it.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 350-400 (depending on cooking method and additions)
- Protein: Around 30g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
This Rice Crispy Chicken recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be. It's a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal. Enjoy!