Description
Dill Pickle Chicken is a flavorful and crispy baked chicken dish marinated in tangy dill pickle juice for 8 to 12 hours. The chicken breasts are coated with a seasoned breadcrumb and panko crust, then baked to golden perfection, creating a crunchy exterior while remaining juicy inside. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a delicious weeknight meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 lbs thinly sliced chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups dill pickle juice
Breading
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup seasoned panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper (to taste)
Finishing
- Olive oil cooking spray (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the thinly sliced chicken breasts and dill pickle juice in a ziplock bag, removing as much air as possible. Seal the bag and move the chicken around to coat evenly in the pickle juice. Refrigerate and marinate for 8 to 12 hours to allow the chicken to absorb the tangy flavors.
- Prepare the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken from the pickle juice and pat dry thoroughly using paper towels. Discard the leftover pickle juice.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, or for crispier chicken, place a wire cooling rack on a rimmed baking pan to elevate the chicken during baking.
- Mix Egg Wash and Breading: In a medium bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk. In a large shallow bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, panko bread crumbs, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off any excess crumbs to prevent clumping.
- Arrange and Spray: Place the breaded chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Lightly spray both sides with olive oil cooking spray to promote crispiness during baking.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Carefully flip each piece and bake an additional 8 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight or for up to 12 hours enhances the pickle flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
- Using a wire rack while baking ensures even crispiness around the chicken.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs and panko create a crunchy texture; you can use plain breadcrumbs and add your own seasoning if preferred.
- If you don't have olive oil spray, you can lightly brush the chicken with olive oil before baking.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 8-12 hours marinating)
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
