Have you ever craved something crispy, savory, and utterly satisfying but with a fun and unexpected twist? Meet crispy chicken and potato doughnuts, a game-changing fusion of two beloved comfort foods. Imagine a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior giving way to fluffy mashed potatoes and juicy, seasoned chicken. It’s the best of both worlds in a single, handheld treat!
In this article, we’ll dive into what makes these doughnuts so special, how to create them from scratch, and the best ways to serve and enjoy them. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just looking for a fun weekend cooking project, this recipe is sure to impress.
What Makes Crispy Chicken and Potato Doughnuts So Special?
The Magic of Potatoes: The Secret to a Perfect Bite
Potatoes are the foundation of this recipe, providing a light and fluffy texture inside while also helping to achieve that crispy golden crust. Their natural starchiness binds the dough together, creating a doughnut that is sturdy enough to hold its shape yet tender enough to melt in your mouth.
Looking for another crispy and satisfying potato-based dish? Try this Hashbrown Patties Breakfast Casserole, a perfect complement to your morning feast!
The Juicy Chicken Filling: Flavor in Every Bite
The key to making these doughnuts truly unforgettable is the well-seasoned, juicy chicken filling. By using shredded or minced chicken infused with spices and herbs, every bite bursts with flavor. You can even add a hint of heat with cayenne or go for a smoky depth with paprika.
Why a Doughnut Shape? A Fun Culinary Experiment
Sure, you could just make chicken and potato croquettes or fritters but shaping them into doughnuts adds a playful element that makes them extra fun to eat and serve. Plus, the doughnut shape allows for even frying, ensuring every bite has that coveted crispiness.
The Ultimate Crispy Chicken and Potato Doughnut Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the dough:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably chilled)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- For the chicken filling:
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For coating and frying:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- Oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potato Dough
In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with flour, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Knead gently until a soft dough forms. If the mixture is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
Step 2: Season and Prepare the Chicken
In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will ensure the filling has a rich, savory depth of flavor.
Step 3: Shape the Doughnuts
Take a small portion of the potato dough and flatten it into a disk. Add a spoonful of seasoned chicken in the center and carefully shape the dough around it, forming a ring. Use a cookie cutter or your hands to refine the doughnut shape.
Step 4: Coat for Extra Crispiness
Dip each doughnut in the beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer layer.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken and Potato Doughnuts
- Use cold mashed potatoes – This helps the dough hold its shape better.
- Double-coat for extra crunch – Dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice for an extra crispy texture.
- Air fry for a healthier option – Brush lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
Healthier Alternatives: Baked vs. Fried Doughnuts
If you want a lighter option, you can bake these doughnuts instead of frying them. Simply brush them with a little oil and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For an even healthier, crispy alternative, try air frying! If you love crispy chicken, you’ll enjoy these Air Fryer Hot Chicken and Cheese Wraps—a quick and delicious way to enjoy bold flavors with less oil!
Serving Suggestions: How to Elevate the Experience
Perfect Dipping Sauces
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo
- Honey Mustard
- Garlic Parmesan Aioli
Pairing It Right
- For brunch: Serve with a fresh green salad.
- For game night: Pair with fries and a cold drink.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making These Doughnuts
- Avoid sogginess: Always drain excess oil immediately after frying.
- Don’t overfill: Too much chicken filling can cause the doughnuts to break apart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these in advance?
Yes! You can shape and coat them, then freeze before frying. Just fry them straight from frozen.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
Use an oven at 350°F or an air fryer to keep them crispy.
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! Just make sure they aren’t too soft or runny.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
Crispy chicken and potato doughnuts are more than just a fun fusion dish they’re a delightful culinary experience that combines crispy, creamy, and savory flavors into every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to spice up mealtime, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe, share your experience in the comments, and don’t forget to snap a picture for social media. Who knows? Your crispy creation might just go viral!
Crispy Chicken-Stuffed Potato Doughnuts
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes preferably chilled
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For the Chicken Filling:
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Coating and Frying:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg beaten
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Potato Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with flour, egg, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Knead gently until a soft dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour.
Season and Prepare the Chicken:
- In a separate bowl, mix the shredded chicken with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a rich, smoky flavor.
Shape the Doughnuts:
- Take a small portion of the potato dough and flatten it into a disk. Add a spoonful of seasoned chicken in the center and carefully shape the dough around it, forming a ring. Use a cookie cutter or your hands to refine the doughnut shape.
Coat for Extra Crispiness:
- Dip each doughnut in the beaten egg, then roll it in breadcrumbs for a crunchy golden crust.
Fry to Perfection:
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.