Yield: 6 servings | Per serving: 196 calories | 32g protein | 4g fat | 9g carbs
My viral McDonald’s Air Fried Spicy McChicken recipe is a crowd favorite. Sure you can always grab one from McDonald's, why not try making your own version at home that's low calorie and high protein! It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and of course, has that spicy kick. Enjoy! ✌️
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WHAT IS A SPICY MCCHICKEN?
We all know and love McDonald's seasonal Hot & Spicy McChicken. It’s made with a spicy chicken patty, tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and mayonnaise. But did you know that it's normally 480 calories for 18 grams of protein??
I've recreated this classic recipe so that it's 196 calories for 32 grams of protein instead! This is a super simple macro-friendly air fried Spicy McChicken that you can make right at home.
Also check out the non-spicy version of this recipe on my website!
INGREDIENTS
Chicken breast: Chicken breast is used as the base of the patty. Although ground chicken is easier to prepare, keep in mind the macros.
Hot sauce/buffalo sauce: This is what makes this recipe a “spicy” McChicken. Use a 0 calorie option for this recipe. I like use Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wings sauce.
Mustard: Mustard is used as a binder to keep the patty together so that it doesn’t split when it cooks.
Paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, celery powder: This is pretty self explanatory, for flavor of course.
Cornflake crumbs: The cornflake crumbs give the patty a nice crispy crunch. You can use other types of crumbs as well, but keep in mind the macros.
Keto buns: Opt for a low-calorie bun like the Culture Keto buns. Each bun is 50 calories with 6 grams of protein.
Romaine lettuce: What’s a McChicken sandwich without the refreshing crunch of fresh lettuce?
Light mayo: I used Miracle Whip, which is 40 calories per tablespoon, whereas regular mayonnaise is 94 calories per tablespoon - that's more than double the calories! Another option that is even more macro-friendly is Miracle Whip Light which is 20 calories per tablespoon.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
For 4 ounces/112 grams of chicken breast, it's 24 grams of protein and 110 calories, whereas the same amount of ground chicken is 23 grams of protein and 160 calories. Ground chicken has more fat, so if you want better macros, you can opt for chicken breast and then grinding/chopping it up.
If the patties are uncooked, store it unbreaded so that the breading doesn't get soggy. I like to store them in a Ziploc bag and put them in the fridge, or shape them into patties and store them in freezer. Once ready to cook, you can take them out (let thaw as needed) and then bread them per recipe instructions.
If the patties are already cooked, wrap the sandwich already assembled if you're planning to eat them on the same day. If you're planning to eat them later in the week, store them unassembled so that the bread does not get soggy, and then assemble when ready to eat.
If it is already cooked, to reheat it, throw the patty into the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to warm it up, or longer for desired crisp.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 1
Firstly, chop chicken with a knife so that it's super fine. If that takes too long, you can also use a food processor/blender to grind it up.
Then, in a mixing bowl, add the chicken, as well as all of the seasonings: salt, pepper, cayenne, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, celery powder, and mustard. Mix until all combined.
(Note, most of the saltiness will come from the hot sauce so season as desired.)
STEP 2
Then, crush cornflakes in a separate mixing bowl.
After that, divide chicken into 6 patties and evenly coat with crushed cornflakes.
STEP 3
Then, in a third mixing bowl, dip each cornflake-coated patty into buffalo sauce.
STEP 4
Before placing the patties in the air fryer, spray a light layer of oil on the tray of the air fryer so that it doesn't stick.
Afterwards, place the patties in the air fryer, spray a light layer of oil on top of the patties and then, top with additional ground pepper as desired.
Air fry patties at 390°F for 10 minutes or until desired crisp.
STEP 5
Lastly, toast your buns as desired and then assemble the Spicy McChicken: bun, patty, shredded lettuce, light mayo, and bun. Enjoy!
RECIPE
How did it turn out? Take a photo and tag me on Instagram @cooklikeimbook so I can see and share!!
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