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Crispy golden chicken with a perfectly seared golden crust

Golden Chicken

Golden Chicken combines crisp texture, tender meat, and a vibrant golden color from turmeric. This versatile recipe can be fried, baked, or air-fried. Perfect for everyday meals, gatherings, or meal prep, it delivers high-protein satisfaction with simple pantry ingredients.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 340

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces chicken fillets boneless, 130–150 g each
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder for color and flavor
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper or white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika for color and mild smokiness
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or minced fresh garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder balances flavor
  • 2 eggs beaten, for coating
  • 1–2 cups breadcrumbs panko or standard
  • oil or cooking spray for frying or baking
Optional Additions
  • chili flakes for mild heat
  • dried thyme for herbal note
  • toasted shredded coconut for nutty flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Oven or air fryer
  • Tongs
  • Wire rack or paper towels

Method
 

  1. 1. Prepare a Quick Marinade: Combine chicken fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and turmeric. Coat evenly. Let rest 15–60 minutes in the fridge.
  2. 2. Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dredge each fillet in this order: flour → egg → breadcrumbs.
  3. 3. Cook by Preferred Method:
    • Fry: Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Fry each piece 3–4 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    • Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place on lined tray, spray lightly with oil, and bake 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
    • Air Fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, turning once.
  4. 4. Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest for 2–3 minutes. Serve as whole fillets or sliced for salads, wraps, or rice bowls.

Notes

Use even-thickness fillets for consistent cooking. Maintain oil temperature to avoid greasy results. Mix herbs or cheese into breadcrumbs for flavor upgrades.