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+ servings

Crispy Fried Chicken Salad Plate

Golden, crispy fried chicken drumsticks and thighs served over a bed of fresh lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. This restaurant-quality dish comes together in under 45 minutes and delivers the perfect balance of crunchy, juicy protein and cool, refreshing vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

For the Fried Chicken
  • 4 chicken drumsticks
  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil for frying
For the Salad
  • 4 cups chopped lettuce
  • 1 cucumber sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 red onion sliced

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Combine the 2 cups all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl. Mix well so all spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until fully combined with no egg white streaks remaining.
  3. Working with one piece at a time, dip each drumstick and thigh into the buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off. Roll in the seasoned flour, pressing gently so coating adheres well. Place on a clean plate and let sit for 5 minutes.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet to a depth of about 2 inches, reaching approximately 350°F. Working in batches, carefully place coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry for 12 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through, until deeply golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  5. Arrange 4 cups chopped lettuce on a large plate or platter. Scatter cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and red onion slices around the lettuce in an appealing pattern.
  6. While the chicken is still warm, arrange the crispy pieces over the salad. Serve immediately while the coating is at its crispiest. Drizzle with your favorite dressing or serve dressing on the side.

Nutrition

Calories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 48gFat: 28gSodium: 720mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g

Notes

For the crispiest coating, make sure your oil temperature stays around 350°F throughout frying. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally. You can prepare the salad components ahead of time and assemble just before serving for the best texture. If reheating leftovers, use a 375°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes to recrisp the coating rather than a microwave.

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