When it comes to indulging in comfort food favorites, many of us believe they must be banished from our diet in order to live a healthier life. However, what if you could relish a delicious double patty chicken burger and still lose weight? In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of healthy eating where taste doesn’t have to be sacrificed. By following a simple yet scrumptious recipe, you’ll discover how this savory dish can be packed with protein and flavor, all while remaining a viable option for your weight loss journey. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that redefines what wholesome eating can truly mean—one delectable bite at a time.
Ingredients and Preparation:
Begin with 1 kilo or 2.2 pounds of chicken mince. You can either purchase pre-minced chicken from the store or create your own by processing chicken breasts in a blender until they reach the desired consistency. This choice of protein is lean, making it an excellent option for those focused on weight loss.
Enhance the flavor of your chicken mince by mixing in:
- 2 teaspoons of onion powder
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of ground sage or ground fennel
Season with a generous dash of salt and cracked black pepper, using approximately 15 twists of your pepper grinder. Mixing these spices thoroughly into your chicken mince will ensure even flavor distribution.
Next, form your chicken mixture into 100-gram patties. This recipe yields approximately 10 patties, which are perfect for assembling double patty burgers. To avoid contaminating your work surfaces, lay down cling film or plastic wrap while weighing out the portions. Roll the chicken into balls before gently flattening them into patties. Keeping your hands wet will prevent the mixture from sticking and help you form smooth, well-shaped patties.
Place your patties on lined baking trays and freeze them for 30 to 40 minutes to firm up, making it easier to apply breading later.
Building Flavor and Crunch:
While the patties chill, prepare the rest of your burger components. For the sauce, dice three cornichons or baby dill pickles and combine them with:
- Half a cup of mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons of yellow or Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Season with salt and 10 cracks of black pepper, then mix thoroughly. This tangy sauce will complement the savory chicken patties perfectly.
For added freshness, thinly slice 250 grams of lettuce, such as iceberg, into fine ribbons. This technique, known as chiffonade, ensures evenly distributed texture and flavor in each bite. Washing the lettuce beforehand is crucial to remove any hidden dirt or debris.
Once your patties have sufficiently firmed up in the freezer, set up a breading station with:
- 120 grams of all-purpose flour
- 200 to 250 grams of cornflake crumbs, Panko breadcrumbs, or regular breadcrumbs
Whisk three eggs in a separate bowl for an egg wash, which helps the breading adhere to the patties. To bread the patties, first coat them in flour, dip them into the egg wash, and then cover them with your choice of crumb. Pat down the crumbs to ensure an even coating.
Line the breaded patties on baking trays covered with parchment paper and spray them lightly with oil. Bake these patties in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for 20 to 22 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for a crispier finish.
Assembling and Storing Your Burger:
With your crispy chicken patties ready, it’s time to assemble your burgers. Spread the prepared sauce evenly on both halves of your burger buns. Place two chicken patties on each bun, topped optionally with cheese, and a pile of your freshly sliced lettuce.
These burgers can be stored for meal prep in a few different ways:
- Fridge Storage: Store assembled burgers in airtight containers or wrap them in food paper for up to three days.
- Freezer Storage: For longer storage, freeze the patties separately. Ensure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn, and defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and assembling fresh.
The Healthy Indulgence:
This double patty chicken burger affords the luxury of savoring a tasty meal while staying on track with weight management goals. The combination of the savory patties, tangy sauce, and fresh lettuce delivers a full-flavored, satisfying eating experience without the excess calories typically associated with fried food.
Remember, healthy eating should never be bland or boring. By experimenting with flavors and adopting creative cooking methods, you can indulge in your culinary favorites while fostering a wholesome lifestyle. Enjoy each bite with the knowledge that you are nourishing your body and honoring your health ambitions.
