Southern Fried Chicken Burgers are the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown fried chicken and soft, buttery buns.
Packed with bold flavors, these burgers are juicy, crunchy, and incredibly satisfying.
If you’re making them for a family dinner, a weekend cookout, or a quick meal, this recipe will deliver a mouthwatering experience every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Juicy: The chicken is fried to perfection with a golden, crunchy coating while staying tender inside.
- Full of Flavor: Seasoned with a blend of spices, these burgers bring that authentic Southern taste.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe foolproof.
Ingredients for Southern Fried Chicken Burgers
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into halves for 4 pieces)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for extra kick)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp baking powder (for extra crispiness)
- 1 egg
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Burger Assembly:
- 4 brioche buns (or any soft burger buns)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey (for a touch of sweetness)
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 4 slices of tomato
- 4 slices of pickles
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Southern Fried Chicken Burgers
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for maximum flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and baking powder. In another bowl, beat the egg.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and back into the flour mixture for a double coating. This creates an extra crispy crust.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken for 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towel.
Step 5: Prepare the Burger Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey in a small bowl. Spread this sauce on the top and bottom of the buns for extra flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Toast the buns lightly for added crunch. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, add a fried chicken fillet, top with a slice of tomato and pickles, then cover with the top bun.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve your Southern Fried Chicken Burgers hot with fries, coleslaw, or onion rings for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Burgers
- Use buttermilk: It tenderizes the chicken and enhances flavor.
- Double-coat the chicken: For a thick, crunchy crust.
- Maintain oil temperature: Fry at 350°F for the perfect crispy texture.
- Let the chicken rest: After frying, let it sit for a few minutes to lock in the juices.
Conclusion
Southern Fried Chicken Burgers are a must-try for any fried chicken lover.
With their crispy, flavorful crust and juicy inside, they bring the best of Southern-style cooking to your plate.
Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a homemade burger that beats fast food any day!