Spicy Chicken Burger

Whether you're craving crispy fried chicken on its own or a spicy chicken burger, this recipe works for both. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then fried to a golden, crunchy finish. For a burger, it’s served on a toasted brioche bun with lettuce, pickles, and mayo.

Serves: 4 burgers Prep Time: 25 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, flattened and cut in half

• 2 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
  

For the Dredging:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 tsp oregano

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp mustard powder

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp white pepper

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper

• 1 tbsp ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp salt

• 2 eggs
  

For Frying:

• Avocado oil (for frying)
  

For Assembling the Burger:

• 4 brioche burger buns (toasted)

• Romaine lettuce

• Pickles

• Hot sauce (e.g., Pepper North Artisan Foods Sweet Garlic & Habanero or TABASCO® Brand Buffalo Style Sauce)

• Mayo
  

Instructions:

Chicken Prep:

1. Using a mallet, flatten the chicken breasts and, depending on size, cut in half.

2. Optional: For extra heat, marinate the chicken in 1 tbsp hot sauce for at least 30 minutes.
   

Prepare the Dredging:

1. In a shallow dish, crack the eggs.

2. In another shallow dish, mix the flour and all the spices.

3. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.

4. Dip the chicken in the egg before returning to the dredging for an extra crispy crust. (Chicken → dredging → egg → dredging.)
   

Fry the Chicken:

1. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).

2. Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the hot oil and fry for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

3. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

4. Top with a generous amount of hot sauce to coat the chicken with spice.
   

Assemble the Burger:

1. Toast the brioche buns in a cast iron skillet with butter.

2. Spread a generous amount of mayo on the buns.

3. Add lettuce and pickles.

4. Place the crispy chicken breast on top.

5. Top with the other bun and serve.