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Ultimate Crispy Chicken Burger with Melty Cheese

A juicy Crispy Chicken Burger with melty cheese dripping over the fried chicken patty, pickles, and shredded lettuce.

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Follow this guide to prepare a homemade crispy chicken burger featuring a juicy interior, an extra-crunchy coating, and perfectly melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 brioche buns
  • Mayonnaise, for spreading
  • Pickle slices, for topping
  • Shredded lettuce, for topping

Instructions

  1. Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create four thinner cutlets. Pound them lightly between plastic wrap until they are about 1/2 inch thick.
  2. Prepare the dry dredge: In one shallow dish, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Prepare the wet mixture: In a second shallow dish, whisk the eggs and milk together.
  4. Prepare the coating: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
  5. Dredge each cutlet first in the dry mixture, shaking off excess. Dip it completely into the wet mixture, letting excess drip off. Finally, press the cutlet firmly into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring full coverage.
  6. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Carefully place two cutlets into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
  8. Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining cutlets.
  9. While the chicken is hot, place two slices of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cover the pan loosely with foil for 1 minute to help the cheese melt completely.
  10. Lightly toast the brioche buns.
  11. Assemble the burgers: Spread mayonnaise on both halves of each bun. Place a cheese-topped chicken patty on the bottom bun. Top with pickle slices and shredded lettuce. Place the top bun on the burger.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can double-dip the chicken: after the first panko coating, dip it back into the wet mixture and then into the panko again before frying.
  • If you prefer baking, place coated cutlets on a rack over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Use a high-quality cheese like sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for the best melt.

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