Southern Fried Chicken Burger

why make this recipe

Southern Fried Chicken Burger is a delicious twist on the classic burger. It brings together juicy, crispy fried chicken and fresh toppings, all in a soft bun. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend cookout. You can impress your friends and loved ones with the amazing flavors and textures. Southern Fried Chicken Burger is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

how to make Southern Fried Chicken Burger

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or 2 chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally to form 4 thinner pieces)
1 tbsp sweet paprika
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp sea salt flakes
1 cup (250 ml) buttermilk
1 cup (150 g) plain (all-purpose) flour
½ cup (60 g) cornflour (cornstarch) (or potato flour)
Oil, for frying (see note 1)
4 brioche buns, or any burger bun of your choice
4 tsp whole-egg mayonnaise
¼ head of oakleaf or butter lettuce, shredded
4 slices gouda (or burger or American cheese)
¼ cup (60 g) sliced gherkin (dill pickles)
Extra sea salt flakes

Directions

Prepare the chicken: Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix sweet paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and sea salt flakes. Rub this spice mix evenly over the chicken thighs.
Coat the chicken: Pour the buttermilk into another bowl. Dip each piece of chicken in the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. In a third bowl, combine plain flour and cornflour. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture until well coated.
Fry the chicken: Heat enough oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces. Fry until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, place the chicken on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Assemble the burgers: Take a bun and spread 1 tsp of mayonnaise on the bottom half. Place some shredded lettuce, then the fried chicken, followed by a slice of cheese and gherkin slices. Top with the other half of the bun.

how to serve Southern Fried Chicken Burger

Serve the Southern Fried Chicken Burger warm with a side of fries or a simple salad. You can also add a splash of hot sauce for some extra heat, depending on your taste. Enjoy it with friends or family, and don’t forget to share!

how to store Southern Fried Chicken Burger

If you have leftovers, you can store the fried chicken separately in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven for a crispy texture. You can also store the assembled burgers in the fridge, but it’s best to eat them fresh as the buns can get soggy.

tips to make Southern Fried Chicken Burger

For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and the flour mixture.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying to ensure it’s juicy.
Use a thermometer to make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying.
Feel free to customize the toppings; you can add tomatoes, bacon, or even a spicy sauce for a kick!

variation

You can make a spicy version by adding cayenne pepper to the spice mix for the chicken. For a healthier alternative, try baking the chicken instead of frying it.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Make sure to slice them thin for quick cooking.

2. What can I serve with the Southern Fried Chicken Burger?
You can serve it with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.

3. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and store it. Fry just before serving for the best texture.