These Crispy Chicken Cubes with Sour Cream and Herbs are a deliciously savory and tender dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of tender chicken, rich sour cream, aromatic herbs, and a crispy flour coating makes for an irresistible meal. This recipe is simple to prepare and packed with flavor, ideal for a family-friendly dinner.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Yield: Serves 4
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Cuisine: Main course, Comfort food
Full List of Ingredients
For the Chicken Cubes:
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2 chicken breast fillets (900g), cut into small cubes
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2 eggs
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2 tablespoons sour cream
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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A bunch of fresh parsley and dill (or use dry herbs instead)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons plain flour
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Oil for frying
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
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Begin by cutting the chicken breast fillets into small cubes (about 1-2 cm each). The smaller the cubes, the crispier they will be when fried.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
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In a bowl, crack the 2 eggs and whisk them together until smooth.
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Add the 2 tablespoons of sour cream to the eggs, along with the garlic powder, chopped parsley, and dill. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Coat the Chicken Cubes:
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Place the chicken cubes into the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss the cubes to ensure they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Prepare the Flour Coating:
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In a separate shallow bowl, place the 2 tablespoons of plain flour.
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Lightly dredge the egg-coated chicken cubes in the flour, ensuring each piece is coated. Shake off any excess flour.
5. Fry the Chicken Cubes:
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Heat a generous amount of oil (about 2-3 tablespoons) in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
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Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken cubes to the pan. Fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
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Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning the cubes occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and become golden and crispy on all sides.
6. Serve:
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Once the chicken is crispy and cooked through, remove it from the pan and drain any excess oil by placing the cubes on a paper towel-lined plate.
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Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 250
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Fat: 15g
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Saturated Fat: 3g
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Cholesterol: 100mg
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Sodium: 300mg
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Carbohydrates: 5g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugars: 1g
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Protein: 30g
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The concept of coating meat in flour and frying it to achieve a crispy, golden crust is common in many cuisines worldwide. The use of sour cream and herbs in this recipe gives it a distinct flavor, often seen in Eastern European and Mediterranean dishes. This combination of flavors is simple yet comforting, making it a popular dish for family meals or casual gatherings.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Simple Ingredients: You only need a few basic ingredients to make this delicious dish.
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Crispy and Tender: The flour coating gives the chicken a crispy exterior, while the egg mixture ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.
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Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning or herbs to match your taste preferences.
Health Benefits
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Chicken Breast is a lean source of protein, which helps with muscle repair and overall body function.
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Herbs like parsley and dill are rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins, supporting overall health and immunity.
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Sour Cream provides a creamy texture and is a source of calcium and healthy fats.
Serving Suggestions
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With a Side Salad: Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
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Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken cubes over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a more filling dish.
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With Dipping Sauces: Enjoy the crispy chicken with your favorite dipping sauce such as garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy ketchup.
Cooking Tips
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Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs or add spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for extra flavor.
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Use a Thermometer: If you’re unsure if the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
Variations to Try
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Add Cheese: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the flour for an extra cheesy crust.
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Spicy Version: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
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Baked Version: If you prefer a lighter dish, bake the chicken cubes in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
These Crispy Chicken Cubes with Sour Cream and Herbs are easy to make, deliciously savory, and sure to be a hit at your next meal. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy coating, and fresh herbs makes this dish a comforting favorite that you can enjoy on any occasion. Whether you serve it with a side of veggies, on a bed of rice, or on its own, it’s a versatile and flavorful meal that everyone will love.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. They’re slightly more flavorful and tender than breasts.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the egg mixture for an extra spicy kick.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to fry the chicken just before serving to ensure it remains crispy. However, you can prep the chicken and coat it ahead of time, then fry it when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I use gluten-free flour for the coating?
Yes, you can substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this dish.
5. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry?
Make sure to not overcook the chicken. The chicken should be cooked until golden and crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside.
6. Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes, bake the coated chicken cubes at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even bake.
7. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to retain the crispy texture.
8. Can I freeze the chicken?
Yes, freeze the coated raw chicken cubes before frying. Once frozen, you can fry them straight from the freezer or thaw them before cooking.
9. What dipping sauces go well with this dish?
Garlic aioli, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy ketchup all pair well with these crispy chicken cubes.
10. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this recipe.