Sweet Potato Chip Chicken Recipe

This innovative spin on classic chicken drumsticks is a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. The sweet potato chips add a unique crunch and a burst of flavor that elevate the humble chicken drumstick to new heights. It's a recipe that's perfect for a cozy family dinner, a potluck with friends, or even a casual weekend meal.

Photos of Sweet Potato Chip Chicken Recipe

This recipe uses sweet potato chips, which may not be a pantry staple in some households. These chips can usually be found in the snack aisle of your local grocery store. They not only add a delightful sweet and salty crunch to the chicken, but also a vibrant color that makes the dish visually appealing. If you're unable to find sweet potato chips, you can substitute with regular potato chips or other vegetable chips of your choice.

Sweet Potato Chip Crusted Chicken Ingredients

Egg: Provides a binding element that allows the sweet potato chip crumbs to adhere to the chicken.

Milk: The milk is combined with the egg to create a wash for the chicken. The fat in the milk helps tenderize the chicken and keep it moist.

Sweet potato chips: They form the unique, flavorful crust when crushed and adhered to the chicken.

Chicken drumsticks: The star ingredient of this recipe, chicken drumsticks are chosen for their juicy, flavorful meat. They can be replaced with thighs or breasts if desired.

Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the flavor of the chicken.

Cooking spray: Used to lightly coat the chicken before baking to help achieve a golden-brown color and a slight crisp.

Fresh cilantro: Used as a garnish to add a pop of freshness and flavor.

One reader, Daniella Titus says:

This sweet potato chip crusted chicken recipe is a game-changer! The crispy coating is so flavorful and the chicken turns out perfectly juicy. It's a hit with my family every time I make it. Plus, it's a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Highly recommend trying it out!

Daniella Titus

Key Techniques for Making Sweet Potato Chip Crusted Chicken

How to crush sweet potato chips: Place the sweet potato chips in a resealable plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin or the flat side of a meat mallet until they are finely crushed.

How to coat the chicken: Dip the chicken drumsticks in the egg and milk mixture, ensuring they are completely coated, then transfer them to the sweet potato chip mixture and press gently to coat evenly.

How to bake the chicken: Place the coated chicken drumsticks on the prepared wire rack and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

How to garnish and serve: Sprinkle the baked chicken with fresh cilantro before serving, and consider serving with a dipping sauce on the side for added flavor.

How To Make Sweet Potato Chip Chicken

If you want to make your fried chicken extra crispy, use these sweet potato chips as breading. Make this sweet potato chip chicken dish at home now!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1egg
2tbspmilk
2cupssweet potato chips,crushed
8chicken drumsticks
Salt & Pepper
cooking spray
fresh cilantro

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet for even cooking. Spray the wire rack with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
In one shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
In the second shallow bowl, add the crushed sweet potato chips. After that, place the prepared baking sheet with the wire rack.
Season chicken generously with salt and pepper. Then dip one piece of chicken in the egg mixture until completely coated. Then let the excess egg drip off, and transfer to the sweet potato chip mixture.
Press the chicken into the chips gently until the entire piece is evenly coated, then lay on the prepared baking tray.
Use cooking spray to give the chicken a final light coat of oil.
Bake for 40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Remove and serve immediately with optional garnish and dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 410.15kcal
Fat: 25.04g
Saturated Fat: 5.39g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.46g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.63g
Carbohydrates: 10.11g
Fiber: 0.57g
Sugar: 0.35g
Protein: 34.24g
Cholesterol: 190.31mg
Sodium: 490.75mg
Calcium: 28.86mg
Potassium: 600.78mg
Iron: 1.64mg
Vitamin A: 45.54µg
Vitamin C: 4.16mg

Crucial Technique for Achieving Crispy Crusted Chicken

To ensure your chicken is juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick. Also, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing its flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the sweet potato chip coating and store it in an airtight container. You can also season the chicken and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.

Use a food processor: Crush the sweet potato chips quickly and evenly by using a food processor instead of crushing them by hand.

Multi-task: While the chicken is baking, use that time to prepare a side dish or salad to complete the meal.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of the sweet potato chip crusted chicken and freeze the extra for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

Invest in a wire rack: Using a wire rack allows for even cooking and prevents the chicken from getting soggy on the bottom.

Substitute Ingredients For Sweet Potato Chip Chicken Recipe

egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: Flaxseed egg can be used as a binding agent in place of regular eggs, making it a suitable substitute for those looking for an egg-free option.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a slightly nutty flavor to the dish.
sweet potato chips - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used to create a crispy coating for the chicken, adding a nutty flavor and a gluten-free option.
chicken drumsticks - Substitute with turkey drumsticks: Turkey drumsticks can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken, offering a similar taste and texture.
salt & pepper - Substitute with smoked paprika & garlic powder: Smoked paprika and garlic powder can add a depth of flavor and a smoky element to the dish.
cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used to coat the chicken, providing a healthy fat and enhancing the flavor.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a milder alternative to cilantro, providing a fresh herb flavor to the dish.

How to Plate and Present Sweet Potato Chip Crusted Chicken

Elevate the dish with a garnish: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a delicate sprinkle of microgreens.
Create a visually appealing arrangement: Arrange the sweet potato chip-crusted chicken drumsticks in a circular or linear pattern on the plate for an elegant presentation.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Pair the crispy sweet potato chip crust with a smooth and creamy dipping sauce to create a delightful textural contrast.
Highlight the main ingredient: Showcase the golden-brown sweet potato chip crust by placing the chicken drumsticks on a clean, white plate to make the colors pop.
Use negative space: Allow the plate to breathe by strategically placing the chicken drumsticks with ample space in between, creating a visually striking presentation.
Add a touch of sophistication with a drizzle: Drizzle a complementary sauce in a zigzag pattern over the chicken for an added touch of elegance and flavor.
Consider the plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish, such as a sleek, rectangular plate to enhance the visual appeal.
Balance the plate: Ensure a harmonious balance of colors and textures on the plate, creating an inviting and visually appealing presentation for the judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crusted Chicken

Egg: Used as a binding agent and to help the sweet potato chip coating adhere to the chicken.
Milk: Mixed with the egg to create a coating for the chicken.
Sweet potato chips: Crushed to create a flavorful and crispy coating for the chicken.
Chicken drumsticks: The protein base for the dish, providing a juicy and flavorful meat.
Salt & pepper: Used to season the chicken and enhance its flavor.
Cooking spray: Used to coat the wire rack and chicken to prevent sticking and promote browning.
Fresh cilantro: Optional garnish for serving, adding a pop of freshness and color to the dish.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Sweet Potato Chip Crusted Chicken

Allow the sweet potato chip crusted chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the chicken from becoming soggy and losing its crispy texture.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the sweet potato chip crusted chicken. Wrap each piece of chicken individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen sweet potato chip crusted chicken can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, remove the desired number of pieces from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat the chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the thawed or refrigerated chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the coating is crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the coating soggy.
If you want to maintain the crispiness of the sweet potato chip coating, you can also reheat the chicken in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Crusted Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover sweet potato chip crusted chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sweet potato chip crust is crispy again. This method is best for maintaining the crispiness of the crust while evenly reheating the chicken.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. Keep in mind that the sweet potato chip crust may lose some of its crispiness in the microwave.
For a stovetop option, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it's heated through and the crust is crispy again. This method is great for quickly reheating a small batch of leftover chicken while maintaining some of the crispiness.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the leftover sweet potato chip crusted chicken. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until it's heated through and the crust is crispy again. This method is ideal for quickly reheating the chicken while maintaining the crispiness of the sweet potato chip crust.

Interesting Trivia About Crusted Chicken Recipes

Sweet potato chips are a healthier alternative to regular potato chips, as they are packed with vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C, making them a nutritious choice for coating chicken.

Budget-Friendly: Is This Crusted Chicken Recipe Economical?

This sweet potato chip crusted chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, sweet potato chips and chicken drumsticks, are affordable and readily available. The recipe offers a creative twist on traditional chicken dishes, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious home cooks. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, making it a wallet-friendly choice. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Crusted Chicken Recipe Healthy?

This sweet potato chip crusted chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:

Chicken drumsticks are a good source of lean protein
Sweet potatoes provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals

However, there are some less healthy elements:

The sweet potato chips are likely fried, adding unhealthy fats
The cooking spray adds additional oil and calories
No vegetables are included to balance out the meal

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Bake the sweet potato chips instead of frying them, or use crushed baked sweet potato chips as a coating
Use a minimal amount of healthy oil, such as olive oil, instead of cooking spray
Serve the chicken with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables to add more nutrients and fiber to the meal
Use skinless chicken drumsticks or chicken breast to reduce the fat content further
Experiment with additional spices and herbs, like garlic powder or rosemary, to add flavor without relying on salt

By making these adjustments, you can transform this recipe into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your craving for a crunchy, flavorful chicken dish. The sweet potato crust adds an interesting twist, while the lean protein and added vegetables contribute to a well-rounded plate.

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on Sweet Potato Chip Crusted Chicken

This sweet potato chip crusted chicken recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional breaded chicken. The sweet potato chips provide a crunchy and flavorful coating, while the chicken remains juicy and tender. The use of fresh cilantro as a garnish adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note. This dish is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it a unique and delicious addition to any meal.

Enhance Your Sweet Potato Chip Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing

Tomato Soup: Homemade tomato soup with a hint of basil and a dollop of sour cream

Chocolate Cake: Decadent chocolate cake with a raspberry coulis drizzle

Similar Crusted Chicken Recipes to Try

Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Fries: These zucchini fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, and the parmesan coating adds a delicious savory flavor.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This salmon recipe is sweet, savory, and packed with flavor. The honey garlic glaze caramelizes beautifully on the salmon, creating a mouthwatering dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This refreshing and tropical chia pudding is made with creamy coconut milk and sweet mango, making it the perfect healthy dessert or snack option.

Spicy Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with this spicy butternut squash soup that has a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. It's a comforting and satisfying soup for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Sweet Potato Chip Crusted Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with a refreshing and colorful appetizer of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves skewered on toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Sweet Potato Chip Chicken Recipe:

This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional chicken drumsticks by using a flavorful and crunchy sweet potato chip crust. The combination of sweet potato and chicken creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is both comforting and nutritious. The use of fresh cilantro as a garnish adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. With the added benefit of being baked rather than fried, this recipe provides a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. Trust in the familiar flavors of sweet potato and chicken for a delightful dining experience.

If you're interested in discussing this sweet potato chip chicken recipe further, head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of potato chip for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of potato chip if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with flavors and textures to create a unique twist on the recipe.

Can I substitute the chicken drumsticks with another cut of chicken?

Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs, breasts, or even chicken tenders for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

While the chicken is best when served fresh, you can prepare the sweet potato chip-crusted chicken ahead of time and reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispiness.

What can I serve with the sweet potato chip-crusted chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of mashed sweet potatoes for a complementary flavor.

Can I use an air fryer instead of baking in the oven?

Yes, you can use an air fryer to cook the sweet potato chip-crusted chicken. Simply follow the same coating process and cook according to the air fryer's instructions for chicken.