Breaded chicken with spicy spinach garnish

Delicious Breaded Chicken Recipe with Spicy Spinach Side

Breaded chicken is a classic dish loved by everyone, bringing a touch of nostalgia to every meal. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken meat with a crispy breadcrumb crust, while the spicy spinach side adds a delicious and healthy contrast. I invite you to try this simple and quick recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 4 whole chicken thighs
- 300 g fresh spinach leaves
- 5 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 slice of celery
- 1 onion
- 2 bell peppers
- 2 eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 150 ml frying oil
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter (about a walnut-sized amount)
- 20 g melted cheese or cheese
- Salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, curry
- Optional: 1 chicken stock cube

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

1. Boil the chicken thighs: Start by cutting the chicken thighs in half for easier cooking. Place them in a large pot with 3 liters of cold water and add a little salt. Also add the cleaned and chopped carrot, parsley root, celery, and onion. Let everything simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.

2. Delicious broth: Don’t forget that the leftover broth can be used to make a delicious soup. It’s a great way to avoid wasting ingredients and to create a nutritious dish.

Step 2: Preparing the Crust

1. Make the batter: In a bowl, beat the two eggs and add 3 tablespoons of flour to create a thin batter. Mix well to avoid lumps.

2. Season the chicken: After boiling, remove the thighs from the water and let them cool slightly. Season them with thyme, curry, and salt (you can also use a chicken stock cube for a stronger flavor).

3. Dredging in breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs on a plate and add pepper and paprika to taste. Dip each piece of chicken in the prepared batter, then coat it in breadcrumbs, ensuring it is evenly covered.

Step 3: Frying the Chicken

1. Heat the oil: In a deep skillet, heat the oil until it reaches the right frying temperature (about 180 degrees).

2. Fry the thighs: Place the thighs in the skillet, frying for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Preparing the Spicy Spinach Side

1. Sauté the spinach: In a non-stick skillet, melt the butter or olive oil. Add the well-washed and dried spinach leaves. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they wilt.

2. Add the bell peppers: Slice the bell peppers into thin strips and add them to the spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Incorporate the cheese: Add the melted cheese or cubed cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and combines with the spinach.

Step 5: Serving

1. Assemble the plate: On a platter, arrange the crispy breaded thighs alongside the spicy spinach side.

2. Garnish: You can decorate the plate with fresh parsley leaves and slices of bell pepper for an attractive presentation. You might also add a fresh salad or pickles for a contrast of flavors.

Chef's Tip

To achieve an even crunchier breaded chicken, you can let it chill for 30 minutes before frying. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better to the meat. You can also experiment with different types of spices, such as smoked paprika or garlic powder, to give the chicken a unique flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

- Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Spinach is rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, calcium), playing an important role in maintaining bone health and the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken breasts can be a leaner alternative, but make sure not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

2. Can I use other vegetables for the side?
Absolutely! You can add zucchini, broccoli, or carrots to diversify the side dish.

3. Is breaded chicken healthy?
Like any fried dish, breaded chicken should be consumed in moderation, but it can be part of a balanced diet when served with vegetables.

Possible Variations

- Replace regular breadcrumbs with whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option.
- You can add fresh herbs to the breadcrumbs, such as basil or dill, for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add chili flakes to the spice mix for the chicken.

This breaded chicken recipe with spicy spinach side will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to personalize it to your taste and enjoy a delicious meal! Bon appétit!