Craving that spicy, crunchy fast-food burger? A zinger-style chicken burger delivers bold flavor and serious crispiness. It’s known for its thick, crunchy coating and spicy kick.
I’ve tested many versions, and the real trick is double coating. That extra layer creates the signature crunch. Skip it, and you lose the magic.
This burger is inspired by popular fast-food chains, but it tastes fresher and more flavorful.
Let’s dive in.
What Is a Zinger Style Chicken Burger
A zinger burger is a deep-fried spicy chicken sandwich with a crispy coating and creamy sauce. It uses strong spices like paprika, chili powder, and black pepper for bold flavor.
The double-dip coating technique creates a thick, crunchy crust.
Ingredient
- 2 large chicken fillets
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup flour
- ½ cup cornflour
- Oil for frying
- 2 burger buns
- Lettuce
- Mayonnaise mixed with chili sauce
How to Make Zinger Style Chicken Burger
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk and spices for 2 hours.
- Mix flour and cornflour with spices.
- Dip chicken in flour mix.
- Dip back into buttermilk.
- Coat again in flour mix (double coating).
- Heat oil to medium-high.
- Fry 5–6 minutes each side until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel.
- Assemble the burger with lettuce and spicy mayo.
Storage
Best eaten fresh. Refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for crispiness.
How to Serve
Serve hot with fries, coleslaw, and a cold drink. Add cheese or jalapeños for extra flavor.
FAQ
Why is it called a zinger burger?
Because of its spicy “zing” flavor from chili and paprika.
How do I get extra crispy coating?
Double coat and fry at the correct oil temperature (170–180°C).
Can I make it in an air fryer?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly lighter than the deep-fried version.
What oil is best for frying?
Use vegetable oil or canola oil with a high smoke point.
Can I make it less spicy?
Reduce chili powder and paprika.
How do fast-food chains make it so crispy?
They use pressure fryers and seasoned flour blends. Double coating helps mimic it at home.
Conclusion
A zinger-style chicken burger is bold, crispy, and full of flavor. With proper marination and double coating, you can recreate fast-food quality at home. Once you try it fresh and hot, you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite.
Zinger Style Chicken Burger
4
servings15
minutes20
minutes260
kcalIngredients
2 large chicken fillets
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp salt
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1 cup flour
½ cup cornflour
Oil for frying
2 burger buns
Lettuce
Mayonnaise mixed with chili sauce
Directions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk and spices for 2 hours.
- Mix flour and cornflour with spices.
- Dip chicken in flour mix.
- Dip back into buttermilk.
- Coat again in flour mix (double coating).
- Heat oil to medium-high.
- Fry 5–6 minutes each side until golden brown.
- Drain on a paper towel.
- Assemble the burger with lettuce and spicy mayo.