The Zinger Burger from KFC features a spicy, crispy fried chicken fillet topped with fresh lettuce and creamy mayonnaise, all nestled inside a soft, toasted bun, delivering a bold and flavorful crunch in every bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Baking trays
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cooking thermometer
- Bun toaster or griddle
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 burger buns
- 2 leaves iceberg lettuce
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
Using fresh, high-quality chicken breasts ensures the best texture and flavor for your Zinger Burger. The combination of buttermilk and hot sauce marinates the chicken to keep it tender and add a spicy kick. Properly measuring spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder creates the signature bold and balanced seasoning. Vegetable oil temperature is crucial; use a cooking thermometer to maintain around 350degF for a crispy, golden crust. Your Zinger Burger from KFC copycat menu will deliver that iconic crispy crunch and spicy flavor you crave.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally to make 4 thin fillets.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Add chicken fillets to the buttermilk mixture and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge chicken fillets in flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat well.
- Place coated fillets on a baking tray and let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Preheat deep fryer with vegetable oil to 175°C (350°F).
- Fry chicken fillets in batches for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 75°C/165°F).
- Drain fried chicken on a baking tray lined with paper towels.
- Toast burger buns on a bun toaster or griddle until lightly golden.
- Spread 2 tablespoons mayonnaise on each bun base.
- Place iceberg lettuce leaf on each bun base.
- Lay crispy chicken fillet on top of the lettuce.
- Cap with the top bun and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Zinger Burger from KFC copycat recipe offers a spicy, crispy fried chicken fillet with fresh lettuce and creamy mayonnaise inside a soft bun. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve a similar tangy effect. When frying, use a cooking thermometer to maintain oil temperature between 350degF and 375degF for the perfect crispy texture. If a deep fryer is not available, a large, heavy-bottomed pan with enough oil for deep frying can work as a substitute. Your bread choice can vary; brioche or potato buns also provide a soft, toasted base that complements the spicy chicken well.
Tips
Ensure chicken fillets are evenly thin for consistent cooking and a crispy texture in every bite. Use a cooking thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 75degC (165degF) to avoid undercooked meat. Allow the coated chicken to rest before frying to help the batter adhere better and create a crisp crust. You can customize your Zinger Burger by adjusting the hot sauce amount in the buttermilk marinade to suit your preferred spice level.
Nutritions
The Zinger Burger provides a substantial source of protein from the fried chicken fillet, contributing to muscle repair and growth. It also contains fats from mayonnaise and frying oil, which add calories and flavor but should be consumed in moderation. The lettuce adds minimal calories while supplying dietary fiber and some vitamins. Your intake will vary based on portion size, but this burger is generally high in protein and fats with moderate carbohydrates from the bun.
Storage
Store leftover Zinger Burger components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep the fried chicken fillets refrigerated at 4degC (40degF) or below and consume within 2 days for optimal taste and safety. Reheat your chicken fillets in an oven or air fryer at 180degC (350degF) for 8-10 minutes to retain their crispy texture before assembling your burger.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt mixed with a splash of lemon juice to achieve a similar tangy marinate that tenderizes the chicken. For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with rice flour or almond flour to maintain the crispy texture during frying. Consider adding pickles or sliced jalapenos to the burger for a tangy or extra spicy twist that complements the seasoned chicken. Oven baking the chicken at 200degC (400degF) for 20-25 minutes instead of deep frying provides a healthier alternative while keeping the fillet succulent.
Allergies
The Zinger Burger contains common allergens such as wheat from the all-purpose flour in the breading and buns, eggs or egg derivatives potentially present in mayonnaise, and dairy from the buttermilk marinade. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, especially gluten or dairy, you should exercise caution or avoid this item. Cross-contamination risks may also exist due to frying and preparation methods involving multiple allergenic ingredients.
Why this recipe?
KFC's Zinger Burger menu is popular for its spicy, crispy chicken fillet that delivers a perfect balance of heat and flavor, appealing to fans of bold, savory tastes. The sandwich combines crunchy fried chicken with fresh lettuce and a tangy mayo-based sauce, creating a satisfying texture contrast in every bite. Making a copycat version allows you to replicate this iconic flavor at home, customizing the spice level and ingredients to your preference. Your homemade Zinger Burger can offer a delicious, cost-effective alternative that captures the essence of KFC's beloved classic.