Spring Crispy Chicken with Garden Slaw

Short Description

Spring Crispy Chicken with Garden Slaw is a delightful dish that combines tender, crispy chicken with a fresh, vibrant slaw made from seasonal vegetables. The contrasting textures and flavors make this meal both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for springtime dining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Features fresh, seasonal produce
• Offers a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess
• Quick and simple preparation
• Ideal for both lunch and dinner
• Versatile enough to adapt to different preferences or dietary needs

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crispy Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Egg
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable oil)

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise
• Plain Greek yogurt
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Fresh or dried dill
• Champagne vinegar (or white wine vinegar/lemon juice)
• Whole grain mustard
• Honey
• Milk (optional, to thin if needed)

For the Garden Slaw:

• Romaine lettuce
• Radishes
• Carrot
• Sugar snap peas

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   Chop romaine lettuce. Thinly slice radishes and carrot, and place in ice water to keep crisp. Trim and slice sugar snap peas on a bias. Blanch peas briefly, then shock in ice water if desired.
2. Make the Dressing:
   In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, garlic powder, dill, vinegar, mustard, and honey until smooth. Thin with milk if needed.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Beat the egg in a shallow dish. Place panko breadcrumbs in another. Dip chicken into egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   Combine romaine, radishes, carrots, and snap peas in a bowl. Toss with dressing. Slice the crispy chicken and serve on top of the salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Oven-baked Option: Bake breaded chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes instead of frying.
• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs or hot sauce to the dressing.
• Vegetarian: Use crispy tofu or tempeh in place of chicken.
• Different Greens: Substitute romaine with spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.
• Additional Toppings: Try avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, or feta cheese for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Consume within 1–2 days for best results.
• Reheating: Reheat chicken in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for their quick cooking time and lean texture.

Can I use pre-shredded slaw mix instead of fresh vegetables?

Yes, a pre-shredded mix can save time and still offer a crunchy, refreshing texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?

Grilled shrimp, tofu, or even hard-boiled eggs make great substitutes.

How long should I marinate the chicken before frying?

This recipe does not require marination, but a short soak in buttermilk for 30 minutes can add tenderness.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free yogurt and mayonnaise alternatives in the dressing.

What oil is best for frying the chicken?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like canola or vegetable oil work best.

How do I keep the vegetables crisp in the slaw?

Use fresh vegetables and keep them chilled in ice water until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Spring Crispy Chicken with Garden Slaw is a celebration of fresh flavors and satisfying textures, ideal for a light yet hearty meal. Whether you’re preparing a casual lunch or an elegant spring dinner, this recipe brings together simplicity and seasonal goodness in one delicious plate.

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