Crispy Chicken: A Favorite Treat for Kids
Crispy chicken, also known as crunchy chicken, is a beloved dish among children and a popular appetizer found in fast-food restaurants around the world. However, this dish can be transformed into a healthier option that you can prepare at home. By making crispy chicken yourself, you can encourage your kids to reduce their intake of fried foods that are saturated with unhealthy oils. In this article, we will outline two easy and healthier methods to prepare crispy chicken at home.
Baked Crispy Chicken
Ingredients:
- ½ cup low-fat milk
- 1 teaspoon chicken seasoning
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes (plain cornflakes)
- 1.5 tablespoons onion powder
- 1.5 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken breasts
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Preparation Steps:
- Combine half of the chicken seasoning with the milk in a bowl.
- Mix the remaining spices (except paprika) with the cornflakes in a plastic bag.
- Thoroughly wash the chicken and dry it using paper towels. Then, add the chicken pieces to the bag with the spices and cornflakes.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for one hour to marinate.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and sprinkle it with paprika.
- Place the chicken on a large baking sheet, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake for 40 minutes.
- After 40 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 40 minutes, or until the chicken is crispy. Serve immediately.
Chicken Fingers
Ingredients:
- 750 grams skinless chicken breasts, cleaned and cut into wide strips.
- ½ cup milk or buttermilk.
- 1 teaspoon vinegar.
- 4 cups cornflakes.
- ¼ teaspoon salt.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper.
- ½ teaspoon paprika.
Preparation Steps:
- Grease a baking tray with a little oil.
- Place the cornflakes in a plastic bag with paprika and crush them. Transfer the crushed cornflakes to a deep bowl.
- Season the chicken strips with salt and black pepper.
- Mix the milk and vinegar together and let it sit for five minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Dip the chicken strips into the milk mixture and let them soak for half an hour.
- Coat the chicken strips thoroughly in the crushed cornflakes and arrange them on the prepared baking tray.
- Bake the chicken strips in a preheated oven for 8-10 minutes.
- Remove the tray from the oven and let the chicken fingers cool slightly; they will become crispier as they cool down. Serve with honey mustard sauce.
Honey Mustard Sauce
Ingredients:
- ½ cup mustard sauce.
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise.
- 3 tablespoons honey.
Preparation Steps:
- Mix the mustard and mayonnaise well, then add the honey.
- Serve the sauce with the crispy chicken fingers.
Coleslaw
Ingredients:
- 1 small head of cabbage.
- 2 large carrots.
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise.
- 3 tablespoons milk.
- A pinch of salt.
- ½ teaspoon sugar.
Preparation Steps:
- Slice the cabbage into thin strips or shred it coarsely using a food processor.
- Grate the carrots and mix them with the cabbage. Add the sugar.
- Place the mixture in a strainer for one hour, stirring occasionally to eliminate excess moisture, then transfer it to a deep bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, milk, salt, and vinegar, then pour this mixture over the cabbage and carrot. Toss everything well.
- Let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for half an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Crispy chicken can be a delightful and healthier meal option when prepared at home. Not only do these recipes provide a wholesome alternative to fast food, but they also allow you to control the ingredients and cooking methods, making them more nutritious for your children. Pairing crispy chicken with homemade honey mustard sauce and refreshing coleslaw creates a delicious and balanced meal. Encourage your kids to participate in cooking, making mealtime more interactive and fun!
