Spiced Fried Chicken Fillets are the perfect combination of crispy texture and bold flavors. This recipe brings together tender chicken fillets marinated in a blend of oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and curry powder, then dipped in a light mineral water batter and fried to golden perfection. The result is juicy, spiced chicken with a crunchy exterior that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or alongside your favorite sides, these fried chicken fillets are sure to become a favorite at your table.
This dish is great for casual dinners or weekend gatherings and pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes like salads, rice, or even hearty mashed potatoes. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delicious, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken fillet (about 3 pieces), sliced thinly
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp oregano (5 g)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) (5 g)
- 1 tsp black pepper (5 g)
- ½ tsp curry powder (2.5 g)
For the Batter:
- 1 egg
- 200 ml (1 bottle) mineral water
- 5 tbsp flour (40 g)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for shallow frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken fillets into thin pieces if they aren’t already pre-sliced. Thin slices ensure quicker and even frying, giving the fillets a tender texture.
In a large bowl, season the chicken with salt, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and curry powder. This spice mix provides a fragrant and slightly spicy flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the chicken. Mix the chicken well, ensuring all the pieces are coated with the spices. For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for 15-30 minutes. This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat, enhancing the taste and aroma.
2. Prepare the Batter
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the batter. In a medium bowl, whisk one egg until smooth. Add the mineral water and continue to whisk until everything is well combined.
Gradually add in the flour, one tablespoon at a time, while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be smooth and slightly runny, with enough consistency to coat the chicken without being too thick. If the batter becomes too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more mineral water.
The use of mineral water helps create a light, crispy coating when fried, adding a delightful texture to the fillets.
3. Coat the Chicken
Once the batter is ready, it’s time to coat the marinated chicken. Dip each chicken fillet into the batter, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides. The batter should cling to the fillet, forming a thin, even layer that will fry up golden and crispy.
4. Fry the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Pour in enough vegetable oil to create a layer for shallow frying, usually about 1/4 inch deep. Allow the oil to heat up thoroughly before adding the chicken—this ensures a crispy exterior and prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil.
Fry the chicken fillets in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fillets. Place the battered fillets into the hot oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them carefully to cook both sides evenly.
Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of a fillet to ensure the chicken is fully cooked, with no pink in the center.
5. Drain and Serve
Once the fillets are perfectly fried, use tongs to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. The paper towels will help absorb any excess oil, leaving you with crispy, flavorful chicken fillets.
6. Serve Hot
Your spiced fried chicken fillets are now ready to be served! They are best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan. Pair them with your favorite side dishes—consider a fresh green salad, fragrant rice, or even a creamy dip like garlic aioli or ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a mild flavor, use less red pepper and focus on the oregano and curry powder for flavor.
- Healthier alternative: If you’re looking to cut down on frying, you can bake the fillets. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and place the battered chicken fillets on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fillets are golden and crispy.
- Check oil temperature: If you have a kitchen thermometer, aim for an oil temperature of about 175°C (350°F) for perfect frying. Too low, and the chicken will absorb oil; too high, and the exterior will burn before the chicken is fully cooked inside.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Servings: 4-5
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 27 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Sugars: 1 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
Conclusion
These Spiced Fried Chicken Fillets are a deliciously satisfying dish that combines flavorful marinated chicken with a light, crispy batter. The balance of spices—oregano, red pepper, black pepper, and curry powder—gives the fillets a wonderful kick without overwhelming the palate. Whether you’re serving them with rice, salad, or a variety of dips, they’re sure to impress your family and guests alike. Enjoy this crispy, golden treat, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request in your household!