Fried Chicken Chunks

Crispy and Flavorful Fried Chicken Chunks: A Perfect Finger Food Delight

If you’re craving a crunchy, savory snack that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, look no further than our Fried Chicken Chunks recipe. These golden-brown nuggets of goodness are seasoned to perfection and fried to crispy perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, planning a picnic, or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious homemade snack, these Fried Chicken Chunks are sure to hit the spot. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this irresistible dish.

Ingredients:

Meat:

  • 1 lb Chicken breast meat, skinless, boneless

Produce:

  • 1 tsp Coriander, ground
  • 1/2 cup Garlic, minced

Condiments:

  • 1/2 cup Lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

Baking & Spices:

  • 1 tsp Adobo seasoning
  • 3 tbsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
  • 1 tsp Black pepper, ground
  • 3 cups All-purpose flour

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 4 cups Corn oil

Beer, Wine & Liquor:

  • 1/2 cup Dark rum

Other:

  • 2 (.18 ounce) packets Sazon with coriander and achiote

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breast chunks with the minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, ground coriander, Adobo seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
  2. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Breading:

  1. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with the Sazon seasoning packets.
  2. Dredge each marinated chicken chunk in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

3. Fry the Chicken Chunks:

  1. In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the corn oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  2. Carefully add the breaded chicken chunks to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
  3. Fry the chicken chunks for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
  4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken chunks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve the Fried Chicken Chunks hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Adjusting Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, black pepper, and Adobo seasoning according to your taste preferences.
  • Extra Crispy Coating: For an extra crispy coating, double dip the chicken chunks in the seasoned flour mixture before frying.
  • Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier alternative to frying, you can bake the chicken chunks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and crispy.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

  • Almond Flour Coating: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a mixture of almond flour and crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly breading option.
  • Avocado Oil: Use avocado oil instead of corn oil for frying to keep the dish keto-friendly.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Coconut Flour Coating: Replace the all-purpose flour with coconut flour for a low-carb alternative.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook the chicken chunks in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier, low-carb version of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While fried foods are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken chunks ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer until heated through before serving.

3. How can I prevent the breading from falling off?

To ensure that the breading sticks to the chicken, make sure to pat the chicken chunks dry with paper towels before dredging them in the seasoned flour mixture. Additionally, pressing the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken can help it adhere better.

Indulge in the crispy, flavorful goodness of our Fried Chicken Chunks, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a tasty snack, planning a party, or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delicious chicken chunks in no time. So gather your ingredients, heat up the oil, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering culinary experience that will leave you craving more!