Delicious fried chicken salad with crispy chicken and fresh vegetables

Best Fried Chicken Salad

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Fried Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of crispy chicken, colorful veggies, and tasty dressing. This recipe is perfect for lunch or dinner. It combines crunchy textures and fresh flavors, making it a hit for any meal. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy a classic fried chicken dish in a healthier way.

how to make Best Fried Chicken Salad

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breast fillets (4 to 6 oz each, skinless, boneless)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Zest from 1 lemon
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup panko crumbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • 1/2 loaf of brioche bread (preferably day-old)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 2 cups thinly sliced kale
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup fontina cheese cubes
  • 3/4 cup peanut oil
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp sesame oil
  • Juice from 1 lemon
  • 2 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Directions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in a plastic bag, one at a time, and pound each to about 1/2 inch thickness so they cook evenly.
  2. Prepare three bowls:
    • The first with flour, garlic powder, lemon zest, kosher salt, and black pepper.
    • The second with a whisked egg.
    • The third with panko crumbs.
  3. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shake off excess, then dip in the whisked egg, letting the excess drip off, and finally coat well with panko crumbs.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet. Cook each piece for about 3–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate and season with lemon juice and extra salt if needed.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Tear the brioche bread into bite-sized pieces and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Toss gently to coat, then bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Let cool.
  6. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, kale, cherry tomatoes, and fontina cheese. These fresh ingredients add crunch and creaminess.
  7. In a bowl or jar, whisk together peanut oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, lemon juice, honey, black pepper, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. In a large serving bowl, toss the prepared slaw, chicken schnitzel slices, baked brioche croutons, and salad dressing until well coated. Taste and add more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, juicy, and tangy flavors!

how to serve Best Fried Chicken Salad

Serve the Fried Chicken Salad immediately after mixing for the best taste and texture. You can also present it in individual bowls for a nice touch.

how to store Best Fried Chicken Salad

If you have leftovers, store the separate components in airtight containers. Keep the fried chicken and croutons separate from the salad and dressing to maintain their crispness. They should stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

tips to make Best Fried Chicken Salad

  1. Pound the chicken evenly to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
  2. Adjust seasonings according to your taste; feel free to add more lemon or spices if you like.
  3. Use day-old brioche bread for making croutons, as it holds up better when baked.

variation

You can customize this salad by adding your favorite veggies, such as cucumbers or bell peppers. Swap the fontina cheese for any cheese you enjoy, like cheddar or feta.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.

Q: What can I substitute for panko crumbs?
A: You can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a different texture.

Q: Is there a vegetarian option for this salad?
A: Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with crispy tofu or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.