Pickle Chicken

If you’re on the hunt for an incredibly flavorful and juicy chicken dish, look no further than pickle chicken. This delightful recipe is a perfect blend of tangy pickle juice and savory spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. The best part? It’s simple to make and requires just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Once you taste pickle chicken, it’s not just a recipe you’ll try once; it’s one you’ll want to keep in rotation. The combination of the dill pickle juice and brown sugar creates a unique flavor profile that’s both tangy and slightly sweet, making each bite incredibly delicious. Plus, the crispy Panko breading adds the perfect crunch. Whether served with a side salad, over rice, or as a filling in a sandwich, this dish will elevate your weeknight dinners and impress guests at gatherings.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup dill pickle juice from a pickle jar (plus extra pickles for serving)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 large eggs

Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowls – For marinating the chicken and mixing the breading.
• Whisk – To beat the eggs and combine ingredients smoothly.
• Baking sheet – To bake the chicken and achieve a crispy texture.
• Meat thermometer – To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
• Cooling rack – To keep the chicken crispy as it cools.

Pickle Chicken, Made Easy

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by placing the chicken tenderloins in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dill pickle juice over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are submerged. Add the brown sugar and kosher salt, mixing well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your pickle chicken will cook evenly and develop that perfect crispy crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up a breading station with three separate bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour and season it with 1 teaspoon of salt, garlic powder, and chili powder. In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs until well mixed. In the third bowl, place the Panko bread crumbs.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess juice drip off. Dredge each tenderloin in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off, and finally coat it in the Panko bread crumbs, ensuring it’s fully covered.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place the breaded chicken tenderloins on the sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your pickle chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes on a cooling rack. Serve with extra pickles on the side, and enjoy your crispy, tangy delight!

What to Use Instead

• If you don’t have dill pickle juice, try using lemon juice or vinegar for a different tangy flavor.
• Replace Panko bread crumbs with regular bread crumbs if needed, but be aware that they may not be as crunchy.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and Panko bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• If you prefer a different spice profile, feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For extra flavor, add some dill or your favorite herbs into the breading mixture.
• Letting the chicken marinate overnight will intensify the pickle flavor, making it even more delicious.
• If you want a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
• The leftover pickle juice can be used for making salads or as a brine for other meats.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftover pickle chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain its crispy texture. You can also reheat it in an air fryer to keep the crunch.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but cooking time may vary. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While marinating enhances the flavor, if you’re short on time, you can still make this recipe without marinating. Just season the chicken well before breading.

Can I freeze pickle chicken?

Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded chicken before baking. Just make sure to place it in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What should I serve with pickle chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. It also makes a great sandwich filling!

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Baked Chicken Breast
• Healthy Chicken Stir-Fry
• Healthy Baked Chicken Nuggets
• Healthy Baked Chicken Tenders

In Closing

Pickle chicken is a fun and delicious twist on traditional chicken recipes. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that is bursting with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this recipe is versatile and oh-so-satisfying. So go ahead, grab that jar of pickles, and let’s get cooking! You’ll be glad you did.