Delicious Chicken Donuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes the familiar comfort of fried chicken and combines it with the irresistible appeal of donuts. The chicken is marinated in flavorful seasonings, coated in a light batter, and fried until golden brown. The result is a crunchy and juicy dish that’s both savory and satisfying. The best part? You can customize the seasoning to match your personal taste, making it as spicy, mild, or herby as you like.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 egg

• ½ cup milk

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks, or if you prefer a traditional donut shape, use a donut cutter to cut them into rounds. Season with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

2. Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, and hot sauce together. Add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until you have a smooth batter.

3. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the right temperature for frying.

4. Dip and fry the chicken: Dip each piece of marinated chicken into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then carefully place the battered chicken into the hot oil. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken donuts for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

5. Drain and serve: Once the chicken donuts are golden and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Serve and enjoy: Serve the chicken donuts hot with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15-20 minutes

• Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy chicken donuts: Add more cayenne pepper or use hot sauce in the batter for an extra spicy kick.

• Honey glazed: After frying, drizzle some honey over the chicken donuts for a sweet-savory flavor combo.

• Herb-infused batter: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the batter for a herby twist.

• Air-fried option: For a healthier version, you can air-fry the chicken donuts instead of deep-frying. Spray them with a bit of oil and cook at 375°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to retain the crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken donuts are cooked through?

The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.

Can I make chicken donuts ahead of time?

You can prepare the batter and chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to fry them just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work just as well and can add a bit more flavor due to their higher fat content.

Is it possible to make this recipe without deep frying?

Yes, you can air fry or pan-fry the chicken donuts if you prefer not to deep-fry them.

Can I freeze chicken donuts?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken donuts. Allow them to cool, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.

How do I get the batter to stick to the chicken?

Make sure the chicken is dry before dipping it into the batter. You can also double-dip the chicken—first in the batter, then in flour, for a thicker, crunchier coating.

What sauces go well with chicken donuts?

Ranch, honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or barbecue sauce are all great options to pair with chicken donuts.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Vegetable oil is ideal for frying, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil if you prefer.

Can I make the batter gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

How do I prevent the chicken donuts from being too greasy?

Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F) and don’t overcrowd the pan. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Conclusion

Chicken donuts are a fun, savory dish that brings the best of both worlds—fried chicken and donuts—together in one delicious bite. They are easy to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying them solo, these chicken donuts will quickly become a favorite!