Chicken Basket Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Crowd-Pleasing Dinner38

Chicken baskets, also known as chicken drumstick baskets, are a delightful and visually appealing way to serve chicken. They're perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even a fun weeknight meal. This recipe will guide you through creating crispy, flavorful chicken nestled in a golden-brown, crunchy basket, making it a dish that’s as delicious as it is impressive. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to achieve such a restaurant-worthy result!

What you'll need:

For the Chicken:
1.5 lbs chicken drumsticks (about 8-10)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup buttermilk or milk
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Basket:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

Preparing the Chicken:
Season the chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season the chicken generously with this mixture, ensuring each drumstick is evenly coated.
Create the buttermilk mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and buttermilk (or milk). This will help the breading adhere to the chicken.
Bread the chicken: Dip each chicken drumstick into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then, dredge the drumstick in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Repeat the dipping and breading process for a double-crusted, extra crispy result.
Fry the chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded chicken drumsticks in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Drain and rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Making the Basket:
Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Add wet ingredients: Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Prepare the basket: You can use a variety of methods to create the basket shape. One popular method is to use a muffin tin. Grease the muffin tin well. Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling about halfway.
Bake the baskets: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. You can also use a small frying pan to create a single basket.
Assemble the Chicken Basket: Carefully remove the baskets from the muffin tin (or pan) and let them cool slightly. Place a fried chicken drumstick into each basket.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your chicken baskets immediately. They are delicious on their own but can be paired with various sides to create a complete meal. Consider serving them with:
French fries
Coleslaw
Potato salad
Macaroni and cheese
A simple green salad
Dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing

Tips and Variations:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for a few hours before breading and frying.

• Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the chicken breading. Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or even a blend of your favorite spices would work well.

• If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

• For a healthier option, bake the chicken instead of frying it. Simply place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.

• Get creative with your basket presentation! You could use cookie cutters to create fun shapes, or use different types of breading for a unique texture.

With its crispy chicken and delightful basket presentation, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the deliciousness and the compliments that are sure to follow!

2025-05-01

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