Homemade Crunchy Chicken Burger

During both of my pregnancies, there was one thing I craved constantly—crispy chicken burgers. I’d daydream about that crunch, the juicy chicken inside, and that satisfying bite you only get from a freshly made burger. And honestly? The craving never went away.

This homemade crunchy chicken burger is my go-to comfort food. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and tastes so much better than anything you’d get from a drive-thru. Plus, it’s super easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or a fun weekend treat. Top it with whatever you love (for me, it’s always a thick slice of tomato, fresh lettuce, and mayo), and you’ve got yourself a restaurant-style burger right from your own kitchen.

Homemade crispy chicken burger with juicy fillet, fresh tomato slices, and crunchy lettuce in a toasted bun

Ingredients (for 2 servings)

2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 egg, beaten

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 burger buns

Lettuce

Tomato slices

Mayonnaise or your favorite sauce

Instructions

Start by prepping the chicken breasts. If they’re thick, slice them in half horizontally. Then place them between two sheets of baking paper and gently pound them with a rolling pin or meat mallet until evenly thin—this helps them cook faster and more evenly. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Set up your breading station: first coat the chicken in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally press into the breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well coated.

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden, crispy, and cooked through.

Lightly toast the burger buns in a dry pan or toaster. Assemble your burger by layering the crispy chicken, lettuce, tomato slices, and a generous spoon of mayonnaise or your favorite sauce. Top with the second bun and enjoy immediately!