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Close-up of a spicy crispy chicken burger with melted cheese and fresh lettuce, highlighting its crispy texture and juicy filling.
Alyssa

Spicy Crispy Chicken Burger

Inspired by KFC's Zinger Burger and Indonesian Ayam Geprek, this spicy crispy burger will satisfy your fried chicken and burger cravings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Asian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless chicken thighs see notes
  • 2 units egg whites
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 2 tbsp gochugaru see notes
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 tbsp gochugaru
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder optional
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp Japanese mayo
  • 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp Sriracha
  • 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce
  • 1/2 tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
  • 1/2 tbsp chili flakes
  • 3 cups ice cold water
  • 4 units burger buns
  • 4 leaves lettuce
  • 4 slices American cheese

Method
 

  1. Mix all the wet seasoning together in a bowl.
  2. Add chicken thigh and coat every single piece with the marinade.
  3. Marinate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  4. Mix all the dry mix ingredients in a bowl.
  5. Mix all the sauce ingredients together in a bowl.
  6. Take a piece of chicken thigh and lightly dredge it in the dry mix, ensuring it is fully coated.
  7. Dip the chicken in ice cold water for 5 seconds, careful not to rub off the flour coat.
  8. Allow the chicken to rest for 10 seconds before placing it back into the dry mix.
  9. Dredge the chicken again, making sure every inch is coated. Repeat until done.
  10. Let it rest for 5 minutes before frying.
  11. Deep fry in hot oil over medium heat until golden brown (about 10-15 minutes).
  12. Optional: Fry for another 5-8 minutes for extra crispy chicken.
  13. Remove from oil and let it rest; sprinkle a pinch of salt and more gochugaru if desired.
  14. Toast the burger buns.
  15. Spread sauce on both burger buns; add chicken, cheese, lettuce, and top bun. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Marinate the chicken for the best flavor and texture.