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Zinger Burger: The Ultimate Guide to Spicy Chicken Perfection

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Crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious homemade Zinger Burgers! Juicy buttermilk-marinated chicken, coated in a flavorful breading, fried to golden perfection, and topped with spicy mayo, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted sesame seed bun.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 2 teaspoons white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (or your favorite hot sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Pickles (optional)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  2. Prepare the Breading Station: In a large, shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, ginger, white pepper, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Dredge the Chicken: Remove one chicken breast from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken breast in the flour mixture and press down firmly to ensure it is completely coated. Turn the chicken over and repeat, pressing down again to create a thick, even layer of breading.
  4. Double Dredge (Optional): For an extra crispy crust, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk marinade (just a quick dip!). Then, return it to the flour mixture and repeat the breading process.
  5. Rest the Breading: Place the breaded chicken breasts on a wire rack lined with parchment paper. Allow the breading to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before frying.
  6. Prepare the Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce (or your favorite hot sauce), lemon juice, and garlic powder. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your desired level of spiciness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.
  7. Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to reach a depth of about 3-4 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 325-350°F (160-175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
  8. Fry the Chicken: Carefully lower the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil, one or two at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
  9. Cook Until Golden Brown and Cooked Through: Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken.
  10. Remove and Drain: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  11. Toast the Buns (Optional): If desired, lightly toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or under the broiler.
  12. Spread the Spicy Mayo: Spread a generous amount of spicy mayo on both the top and bottom buns.
  13. Add the Lettuce: Place a bed of shredded lettuce on the bottom bun.
  14. Add the Tomato: Add a few slices of tomato on top of the lettuce.
  15. Place the Chicken: Place the fried chicken breast on top of the tomatoes.
  16. Add Pickles (Optional): If desired, add a few pickle slices on top of the chicken.
  17. Top with the Bun: Place the top bun on top of the chicken and toppings.
  18. Serve Immediately: Serve the Zinger burger immediately while the chicken is still hot and crispy. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken overnight is highly recommended for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry in batches if necessary.
  • Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Resting the breaded chicken before frying helps the breading adhere and prevents it from falling off.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and sriracha to your desired level of spiciness.
  • Get creative with toppings! Add cheese, onions, or even a fried egg.
  • For a healthier option, bake or air fry the chicken instead of frying.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/zinger-burger/