High Protein Spicy Fried Chicken

Elevate your fried chicken game with this High Protein Spicy Fried Chicken recipe—perfect for fitness enthusiasts and flavor seekers alike! Tender chicken breasts are marinated in tangy buttermilk and zesty hot sauce for maximum juiciness, then coated in a unique blend of whey protein powder, flour, and bold spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. The result? A crispy, golden crust that packs a protein punch and a kick of heat with every bite. This quick and easy high-protein meal is perfect for satisfying your cravings without derailing your health goals. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside fresh salads, roasted veggies, or grain bowls for a well-rounded feast. Whether you're meal prepping or indulging in game-day eats, this spicy fried chicken will hit the spot!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces (about 1.5 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 3 tablespoons hot sauce
• 2 large egg whites
• 3 scoops (about 90 grams) whey protein powder (unflavored)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups oil for frying (e.g., canola or peanut oil)

Directions

Step 1

Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken breasts to the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 3

In another bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy. Set aside.

Step 4

In a shallow dish, combine the whey protein powder, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the coating for the chicken.

Step 5

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and let any excess drip off. Dip each piece into the beaten egg whites, then coat thoroughly in the dry mixture. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks.

Step 6

Heat the oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed to maintain it.

Step 7

Carefully place 2 pieces of coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Step 8

Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces.

Step 9

Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your high-protein spicy fried chicken with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	4690.9 grams (4690.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	14803

Total Fat 1076.40g	1380%
Saturated Fat 113.50g	568%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.00g
Cholesterol 2457mg	819%
Sodium 8897mg	387%
Total Carbohydrate 160.40g	58%
Dietary Fiber 6.00g	21%
Total Sugars 34.10g
Protein 1096.60g	2193%

Vitamin D 390IU	1949%
Calcium 2267mg	174%
Iron 33mg	182%
Potassium 9487mg	202%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 65.8%

Protein: 29.8%

Carbs: 4.4%