Ingredients:

• Chicken fillet – 700 g
• Salt and black pepper – to taste
• Dried garlic (optional) – to taste
• Smoked paprika (optional) – to taste
• Large eggs – 3
• Milk – 2-3 tablespoons
• Flour – 3 tablespoons
• Vegetable oil – for frying

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Fillets:

• Begin by cutting the chicken fillets. If the fillets are large, trim off the small tenderloin attached to the main fillet.
• Slice the larger fillets into even, portioned pieces. You want each piece to be roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
• Cover the chicken fillet pieces with cling film and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them gently until they are about 1 cm thick. Be careful not to over-pound the fillets to avoid breaking the meat.

2. Season the Chicken:

• Season both sides of each chicken fillet generously with salt and black pepper. If you like, you can add dried garlic and smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
• Set the seasoned fillets aside while you prepare the coating.

3. Prepare the Lezon (Egg Coating):

• Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Place the yolks in one bowl and the whites in another.
• Add the milk to the yolks and whisk until combined. This mixture is called a lezon, which helps create a smooth coating on the chicken.
• In the bowl with the egg whites, add a pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the whites until they form a light, fluffy foam. This will create a light, crispy texture when frying the chops.

4. Coat the Chicken Chops:

• Set up a coating station with three bowls: one for the lezon, one for flour, and one for the beaten egg whites.
• First, dip each chicken fillet into the lezon (egg yolk and milk mixture), making sure it’s fully coated.
• Next, dredge the fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess.
• Finally, dip the fillet into the beaten egg whites, making sure to coat it evenly. You can use a brush to apply the egg whites more economically if needed.

5. Fry the Chicken Chops:

• Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
• Carefully place the coated chicken chops into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the outside is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C (165°F).
• If your chops are thick, you may need to lower the heat slightly to allow them to cook all the way through without burning the outside.

6. Serve:

• Once the chops are fully cooked and crispy on the outside, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
• Serve the crispy chicken chops immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

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Cooking Tips:

• Pounding the Chicken: Pounding the chicken fillets to an even thickness ensures that they cook evenly and quickly. This step also tenderizes the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.
• Fluffy Egg Whites: Beating the egg whites until fluffy helps create a light and crispy coating. Make sure to gently coat the chicken in the egg whites for a perfect texture.
• Spices: While the recipe suggests dried garlic and smoked paprika, you can experiment with other spices and herbs to suit your taste. Try adding oregano, thyme, or even cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
• Frying: Keep the heat moderate while frying to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without burning the coating. If the oil gets too hot, the outside will brown too quickly while the inside remains undercooked.

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Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken chops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chops in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain their crispiness.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze the chicken chops, let them cool completely after frying. Wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or frying pan.

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Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 26 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 500 mg

Please note that these values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and the specific brands of ingredients used.

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FAQs:

1. Can I bake the chicken chops instead of frying them?

Yes! To bake the chicken chops, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the coated chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chops are golden brown and cooked through.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat. They will add more flavor and moisture to the dish. You can follow the same steps for seasoning, coating, and frying.

3. What can I serve with chicken chops?

These chicken chops pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even a side of pasta. You can also serve them with dipping sauces such as garlic aioli or honey mustard.

4. How do I prevent the coating from falling off while frying?

Make sure to press the flour and egg whites into the chicken firmly when coating. Also, avoid flipping the chops too frequently during frying, as this can cause the coating to loosen. Let each side cook fully before turning.

5. Can I prepare the chicken chops in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken chops up to the point of frying. Store the coated, uncooked chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then fry when ready to serve.

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Conclusion:

Crispy Chicken Chops are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With their tender, juicy interior and crispy, golden exterior, these chicken chops are both comforting and satisfying. The simple preparation and the versatility of the recipe allow you to customize the flavors to suit your taste, whether you prefer a mild or spicy version.

Serve these delicious chops with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these chicken chops are sure to impress.