We’ve always loved putting a fresh spin on comfort classics, and our Mimosa Fried Chicken recipe does just that. It takes the crispy goodness of fried chicken and infuses it with the bright, bubbly flavors of a mimosa—think zesty orange and a hint of champagne for a brunch-worthy twist.
This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s a fun fusion that brings cocktail vibes to the table. We’ve kept it simple yet irresistible, perfect for impressing friends or spicing up your weekend meals.
Ingredients
As we dive into our Mimosa Fried Chicken recipe, we focus on selecting high-quality ingredients that blend the crispy texture of classic fried chicken with the vibrant, citrusy notes of fresh orange and a subtle champagne fizz. This combination ensures a dish that’s not only flavorful but also visually appealing and perfect for brunch gatherings.
We’ll organize the ingredients in the order they’re typically used, from preparation to cooking. For optimal results, use fresh, high-quality items to capture the zesty essence of mimosa-inspired flavors.
Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks: Boneless and skinless, patted dry to ensure even coating and crispiness.
- 1 cup fresh orange juice: Preferably from oranges squeezed that day for maximum zest and tang, which infuses the chicken with a refreshing citrus kick.
- ½ cup champagne or sparkling wine: Chilled and non-sweet variety to add a light, bubbly undertone without overpowering the dish.
Breading and Coating Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Sifted for a smooth, even breading that creates a golden, crunchy exterior.
- 2 large eggs: Beaten lightly in a separate bowl to help the breading adhere perfectly to the chicken.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: For an extra-crispy finish, mixed with a pinch of zest from one orange for added flavor depth.
- 1 tablespoon salt: Kosher variety, divided as needed for seasoning both the marinade and breading.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground to enhance the savory notes and balance the sweetness from the orange.
Frying and Finishing Ingredients
- 2 cups vegetable oil or neutral frying oil: Heated to 350°F for deep frying, ensuring the chicken achieves a perfect golden-brown color and texture.
- Fresh orange zest: From 1-2 oranges, grated finely for garnishing, adding a vivid aromatic touch to the final presentation.
- Optional herbs: Such as 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or thyme, for sprinkling atop the finished chicken to elevate its visual and sensory appeal.
This selection of ingredients makes our Mimosa Fried Chicken not only easy to prepare but also a standout dish with its crispy, zesty profile.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Mimosa Fried Chicken recipe to life after gathering the ingredients, we rely on a few key tools that ensure precise preparation and a perfectly crispy finish. These items help us handle the frying, breading, and flavor infusion safely and efficiently.
Here’s a bulleted list of the essential equipment, organized by their role in the process:
- Large Mixing Bowls (2-3): We use these for marinating the chicken in orange juice and champagne mixture, as well as for the breading station to keep things organized and mess-free.
- Deep Frying Pan or Dutch Oven: Ideal for frying the chicken to golden perfection; it provides even heat distribution and ample space to avoid overcrowding.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: Crucial for monitoring oil temperature—we aim for 350°F to 375°F to achieve that ideal crispy texture without sogginess.
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon: These allow us to flip and remove the chicken from hot oil safely, preventing burns and ensuring even cooking.
- Zester or Microplane: Perfect for grating fresh orange zest, which adds a vibrant, citrusy aroma to our dish and enhances its mimosa-inspired flair.
- Whisk or Fork: We employ this for blending eggs and seasonings in the breading process, ensuring a uniform coating that sticks well.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s balance of flavors, so we use these to portion ingredients like flour and spices precisely.
- Wire Rack and Baking Sheet: Placed over a baking sheet, this setup lets us drain excess oil from the fried chicken, keeping it crisp and not greasy.
With this equipment on hand, we’re set to transition smoothly into the preparation steps, making the process straightforward and enjoyable.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through preparing our Mimosa Fried Chicken with precision and ease. These steps ensure a crispy exterior and vibrant citrus-champagne flavors that will impress at any gathering.
Prep
Before we begin, let’s prepare the components for our Mimosa Fried Chicken to streamline the process. Start by patting dry 2 pounds of chicken thighs or drumsticks with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better breading adhesion. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of fresh orange juice, ½ cup of champagne, 2 tablespoons of orange zest, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to create a flavorful base—inhale the zesty citrus aroma that promises a refreshing twist on classic fried chicken.
Next, set up your breading station with three shallow dishes: one with 1 cup of all-purpose flour mixed with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; another with 2 beaten eggs; and the third with 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs seasoned with 1 teaspoon of paprika for added crunch and color. This setup allows for efficient coating and helps achieve that golden-brown texture we crave.
Marinate
With our prep complete, we marinate the chicken to infuse it with the signature mimosa essence. Place the dried chicken pieces into the bowl of orange-champagne mixture, ensuring each piece is fully submerged for even flavor distribution. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours—the longer marination enhances the tangy citrus notes and subtle effervescence, making the chicken tender and aromatic.
After marinating, remove the chicken from the mixture and let it drain on a wire rack for 5 minutes to prevent sogginess during breading. This step is crucial as it balances moisture and sets the stage for a crispy finish.
Cook
Now we cook our Mimosa Fried Chicken to golden perfection, focusing on even frying for optimal texture and taste. Heat 4 cups of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F on an instant-read thermometer—maintain this temperature to ensure the chicken fries evenly without absorbing excess oil.
Dredge each marinated chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch. Carefully lower the breaded chicken into the hot oil using tongs, frying 3-4 pieces at a time for 12-15 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F—listen to the sizzle and smell the intoxicating blend of citrus and fried goodness. Transfer the cooked pieces to a wire rack to drain any excess oil, preserving that crispy exterior.
Serve
To serve our Mimosa Fried Chicken, plate the hot pieces immediately for the best texture and flavor. Arrange 4-6 pieces on a serving platter and garnish with fresh orange zest and optional chopped herbs like parsley for a vibrant pop of color and aroma that complements the zesty undertones.
Pair each serving with a side of dipping sauce—such as a simple mix of ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons orange juice, and a pinch of salt—for an extra burst of citrusy freshness, making this dish ideal for brunch or casual entertaining. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful bite that elevates traditional fried chicken into a memorable meal.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Mimosa Fried Chicken as a delightful way to refresh your kitchen adventures. It’s a simple innovation that turns everyday meals into memorable experiences.
You’ll enjoy how it elevates flavors while keeping things approachable. Try it for your next gathering and discover why it’s become one of our go-to recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mimosa Fried Chicken?
Mimosa Fried Chicken is a creative twist on classic fried chicken, blending crispy breading with zesty orange flavors and a hint of champagne for a refreshing brunch option. It’s a fun, easy way to elevate comfort food, perfect for entertaining or weekend meals.
What ingredients are needed for Mimosa Fried Chicken?
You’ll need chicken thighs or drumsticks, fresh orange juice, champagne, all-purpose flour, eggs, panko breadcrumbs, seasonings, and vegetable oil for frying. Garnishes include orange zest and herbs. This combination creates a vibrant, citrusy fried chicken that’s simple yet impressive.
What equipment is required to make this recipe?
Essential tools include large mixing bowls for marinating, a deep frying pan or Dutch oven for cooking, an instant-read thermometer to monitor oil temperature, tongs for handling chicken, and measuring cups for precise prep. These basics ensure safe and effective preparation.
How do I prepare the marinade for Mimosa Fried Chicken?
Mix fresh orange juice, champagne, and seasonings in a bowl, then add chicken pieces. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavors. This step is key for that zesty, citrusy taste before breading and frying.
What’s the best way to fry the chicken?
Heat vegetable oil to 350-375°F in a deep pan. Bread marinated chicken in flour, eggs, and panko, then fry in batches for 10-15 minutes until golden-brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking for a crispy, even finish.
How should I serve Mimosa Fried Chicken?
Serve hot, garnished with fresh orange zest and herbs, alongside a citrusy dipping sauce. It’s ideal for brunch or gatherings, pairing well with mimosas or salads for a memorable, flavorful meal that highlights its vibrant taste.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap champagne for sparkling wine or non-alcoholic alternatives, and use other citrus like lemon for orange juice. For breading, substitute panko with regular breadcrumbs if needed, but keep oil neutral for best frying results—adjustments won’t compromise the dish much.