This Copycat Chicken Ring is a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for gatherings! It features juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and a flaky crescent dough that wraps it all together.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with a side of dipping sauce—trust me, once you take a bite, you might not want to share! 🍗🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this dish because they are juicy and easy to chop. If you’re looking for a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken works great too!
Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives the chicken ring a rich flavor. If you need a substitute, try pepper jack for a little heat or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Onions: Finely chopped onions add nice flavor. You can swap them for green onions or even garlic if you want an extra kick!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These are ideal for a crispy coating. Regular breadcrumbs can also work, but they won’t be as crunchy. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free bread crumbs.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunchy Coating?
Achieving that perfect crunch is all about the breading technique. Here’s how to make it work:
- Use three separate bowls for flour, egg-buttermilk mix, and breadcrumbs. This helps the coatings stick well.
- Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken ring firmly, ensuring all surfaces are well covered.
- Fry at the right temperature (350°F) to get a golden brown crust. Too low, and it’ll be greasy; too high, and it can burn!
Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—that’s the goal!
Enjoy making this fun dish at home, and feel free to mix in your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own!
How to Make Copycat Chicken Ring
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Mixture:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking and Serving:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
- Lettuce leaves (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes for frying. You’ll need to chill the chicken mixture for about 20 minutes before frying. In total, plan for around 1 hour to have a delicious Copycat Chicken Ring ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the shredded cheddar cheese and finely chopped onions. Mix gently until everything is evenly combined and coated.
2. Shape the Ring:
After mixing the ingredients, lightly grease a bundt pan or a ring mold. Press the chicken mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to form a complete ring shape. Once shaped, place the pan in the fridge and chill for about 20 minutes to help it set.
3. Prepare the Breading Stations:
While the chicken mixture is chilling, set up your breading stations. In three separate shallow bowls, place (1) the flour, (2) beaten eggs mixed with buttermilk, and (3) the panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Coat the Chicken Ring:
Carefully remove the chicken ring from the bundt pan. Begin by dredging it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg-buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, and finally press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat it evenly all around.
5. Fry the Chicken Ring:
In a deep frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the chicken ring until it turns golden brown and is cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain and Garnish:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken ring from the oil and let it drain on paper towels. To finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and green onions for a pop of color.
7. Serve:
Place the chicken ring on a serving board or plate, and optionally, on a bed of fresh lettuce. Serve it warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for dipping!
This tasty, crispy Copycat Chicken Ring is perfect for sharing at parties, and everyone will love the cheesy, juicy goodness inside! Enjoy! 🎉
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a favorite for its flavor and meltiness, you can use pepper jack for a bit of spice, mozzarella for a mild taste, or even a combination of cheeses for extra depth!
Can I Make This Without Frying?
Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken ring. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the coated ring on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftover chicken ring can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain its crispy texture.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe. If you only have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before chopping and cooking to ensure even cooking and texture.