Crispy Chicken Burgers with Loaded Cheese Fries

Crispy Chicken Burgers with Loaded Cheese Fries is a hearty, indulgent meal that combines crunchy, golden-fried chicken with a soft bun, fresh toppings, and creamy sauce. Served alongside crispy fries smothered in rich, melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Extra crispy and juicy chicken with a flavorful coating
• Loaded cheese fries take this meal to the next level
• Easy to customize with different sauces and toppings
• A restaurant-quality meal made at home
• Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or special occasions

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crispy Chicken Burgers:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
• Buttermilk
• Hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Burger buns
• Lettuce
• Sliced tomatoes
• Pickles
• Mayonnaise or burger sauce

For the Loaded Cheese Fries:

• Frozen or fresh-cut fries
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Heavy cream or milk
• Butter
• Salt and black pepper
• Cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
• Green onions, chopped (optional)
• Jalapeños, sliced (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Crispy Chicken:

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, then dip in the eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Loaded Cheese Fries:

6. Bake or fry the fries according to package instructions until crispy.
7. In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in heavy cream and heat until warm. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
8. Pour the cheese sauce over the crispy fries. Top with bacon, green onions, and jalapeños if desired.

Assemble the Chicken Burgers:

9. Toast the burger buns lightly. Spread mayonnaise or burger sauce on the bottom bun.
10. Add lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles. Place the crispy chicken on top and add more sauce if desired. Cover with the top bun.
11. Serve with loaded cheese fries on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 burgers and a side of fries
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes (excluding marinating)

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Burger: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mix and use spicy mayo.
• BBQ Style: Drizzle barbecue sauce over the chicken before serving.
• Healthier Version: Bake the chicken instead of frying, and use air-fried fries.
• Cheesy Burger: Melt a slice of cheddar or pepper jack on the crispy chicken.
• Loaded Ranch Fries: Swap the cheese sauce for ranch dressing and bacon bits.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep fries separate.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Reheat the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to keep it crispy.
  • Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
  • Microwave: Not recommended for crispy texture.
  • Fries: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best for frying.

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying instead of placing it on paper towels.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, but reheat gently over low heat, adding a little milk if it thickens too much.

What buns work best for these burgers?

Brioche buns, potato buns, or sesame seed buns are great choices.

Can I make these burgers gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs, and ensure the buns are gluten-free.

Can I air-fry the chicken instead?

Yes, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I make the fries crispier?

Soak fresh-cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before frying.

What toppings go well with crispy chicken burgers?

Coleslaw, avocado, crispy bacon, or a fried egg make great additions.

Can I use pre-made frozen chicken patties?

Yes, but homemade fried chicken gives the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Burgers with Loaded Cheese Fries is the ultimate comfort meal, combining crunchy, juicy chicken with creamy, melty cheese fries. Whether for a weekend treat or a family gathering, this meal is sure to impress. Try different variations and enjoy a restaurant-style experience at home!

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Juicy fried chicken burgers paired with cheesy, bacon-loaded fries.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken Burgers:

• 2 brioche burger buns
• 2 boneless chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Oil for frying
• 2 slices cheddar cheese
• 2 lettuce leaves
• 2 tomato slices
• 2 tbsp mayo

For the Loaded Fries:

• 2 cups crinkle-cut fries
• 1 cup cheddar cheese sauce
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

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Instructions

• Soak chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
• Mix flour, paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Coat the chicken evenly.
• Fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
• Assemble the burger with a bun, lettuce, tomato, fried chicken, cheddar cheese, and mayo.
• Bake or fry the crinkle-cut fries and top with cheddar cheese sauce, bacon bits, and parsley.
• Serve burgers with loaded fries.

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Notes

• Add hot sauce to the buttermilk for a spicy kick.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Substitute cheddar cheese sauce with melted mozzarella for a different texture.