Ultimate Chicken Burger Upgrade

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken

1. Make the Spice Mix:

   • In a small bowl, combine:
     • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
     • 2 tsp garlic granules
     • ½ tsp chili powder
     • ½ tsp black pepper
     • 1 tsp dried oregano
   • Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of spices. This mix will give the chicken a flavorful kick.

2. Prepare the Brine:

   • In a plastic container or bowl, whisk together:
     • 500ml buttermilk
     • 3 tbsp pickle juice (from your gherkin jar)
     • 1 tsp salt
     • One-third of the prepared spice mix.
   • Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the spices are fully incorporated. This brine will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

3. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Take 2 large chicken breasts and trim any excess fat. Cut each breast into two pieces, slicing about two-thirds of the way up from the thinner end. This ensures you have one thinner and one plumper piece per breast, which helps with even cooking.
   • Tip: If the chicken is particularly thick, consider cutting them horizontally to create thinner cutlets.

4. Flatten the Chicken:

   • Place each piece between two sheets of baking parchment. Using a rolling pin, gently flatten the chicken to about 2cm thick. This step is crucial for quick and even cooking.
   • Tip: If you don’t have a rolling pin, a heavy skillet can work as well.

5. Marinate the Chicken:

   • Submerge the flattened chicken pieces in the buttermilk brine, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours; for the best flavor and tenderness, aim for 24 hours.
   • Tip: Marinating overnight is ideal, as it allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Step 2: Make the Coating and Sauce

1. Prepare the Coating:

   • In a shallow dish, combine:
     • 150g plain flour
     • 150g cornflour
     • The remaining spice mix (about two-thirds of the total).
     • 1 tsp salt
   • Stir well to ensure that the flour and spices are evenly mixed. This seasoned coating will provide flavor and crunch.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • In a separate bowl, mix:
     • 6 tbsp mayonnaise
     • 1-2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference).
   • Blend until smooth and creamy, then set aside. This sauce adds richness and a spicy kick to the burger.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat the Oil:

   • In a deep saucepan or fryer, add sunflower oil to a depth of about 5cm.
   • Heat the oil to 175°C (or until a small piece of bread dropped in sizzles and turns golden). Use a thermometer for accuracy; this temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.

2. Coat the Chicken:

   • Using tongs, lift a piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
   • Dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. Shake off any excess flour before frying.
   • Tip: For an extra crispy coating, you can double dip by returning the chicken to the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture again.

3. Fry the Chicken:

   • Carefully lower the coated chicken into the hot oil using tongs. Fry 1-2 pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature.
   • Fry for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is deeply golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C).
   • Tip: If frying multiple pieces, keep the cooked chicken warm in a low oven (around 100°C) while finishing the rest.

4. Drain the Chicken:

   • Once cooked, use tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a tray lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.
   • Immediately top each piece with a slice of burger cheese and keep in the warm oven to melt slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

1. Toast the Buns:

   • Split 4 brioche burger buns and spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the cut sides.
   • In a large frying pan, toast the buns over medium heat until golden brown and crisp. This adds flavor and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy once assembled.

2. Build the Burgers:

   • On the bottom half of each toasted bun, spread a generous amount of the prepared sauce.
   • Place a piece of fried chicken on top, followed by slices of gherkin for an added crunch and tang.
   • Spread more sauce on the cut sides of the top halves of the buns, then gently close the burgers.

3. Serve:

   • Serve the burgers immediately while hot. Pair with napkins for easy handling and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and tangy gherkins in each bite!
   • Tip: Consider serving with fries or a side salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your Ultimate Chicken Burger Upgrade!