This fun Chicken Ring is an easy way to enjoy chicken, cheese, and dough all in one dish! It’s crispy on the outside and packed with tasty filling. Perfect for sharing with friends!
I love how this dish makes me feel like a chef. It’s so simple to make that you can impress guests without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s great for game nights or family dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they’re easy to cut and roll. If you’re looking for a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works too—just shred it before using.
Cream Cheese: This adds richness and helps bind everything together. If you’re dairy-free, you can try a dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cheese for a similar texture.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, use mild cheddar or even mozzarella for a gooey effect.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch. If you don’t have them, regular breadcrumbs will work. For a gluten-free option, you can use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a nice kick, but feel free to omit it or replace it with a pinch of black pepper if you’re not into spicy flavors.
How Do I Keep My Chicken Ring from Falling Apart?
Securing your chicken ring is key to keeping it intact during frying. Here are some steps to ensure it holds together:
- When cutting chicken, make sure strips are even; this helps with rolling.
- Evenly spread the cheese mixture over the chicken, but don’t overstuff—this makes sealing it harder.
- Gently press the ends together to seal; you can even use a bit of egg wash to help hold it.
- Be careful while frying, as too much movement can cause it to break apart. Allow it to set for a moment before flipping.
With these tips, you’ll have a perfectly shaped chicken ring that’s as delicious as it is fun to serve!
How to Make a Delicious Copycat Chicken Ring
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- For the Coating:
- 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil
- For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lettuce leaves (for plating)
- Red onion slices (for plating)
- Your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., marinara or ranch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes of prep time and around 8 minutes for frying. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish before your delicious chicken ring is ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oil:
Begin by preheating your oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to use enough oil for frying to cover the chicken ring.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
Slice each chicken breast into strips about 1 to 1.5 inches wide by 4–5 inches long. These will form the “petals” of your chicken ring, so aim for even sizes to help it cook uniformly.
3. Mixing the Cheese Filling:
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix them together until well combined—this creamy filling will make your chicken ring super tasty!
4. Forming the Ring:
On a clean surface or parchment paper, lay the chicken strips in a circular overlap pattern to create a ring shape. This will be the base for your filling.
5. Filling the Chicken Strips:
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken strip in the ring. Make sure to cover well without overflowing, as you will need to roll the strips.
6. Rolling for Secure Sealing:
Carefully roll each chicken strip, enclosing the cheese filling. Secure the ends by gently pressing them together to ensure the filling stays inside when frying.
7. Preparing the Egg Wash:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. This will help adhere the breadcrumbs to your chicken ring.
8. Mixing the Breadcrumbs:
In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until mixed well.
9. Coating the Chicken Ring:
Dip the chicken ring into the egg wash, coating it evenly. Follow this with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick well.
10. Frying Time:
Carefully place the coated chicken ring into the hot oil. Fry gently while turning occasionally for about 6-8 minutes until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
11. Finishing Touches:
Once the chicken ring is golden brown, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
12. Garnishing and Serving:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. To serve, place the chicken ring on a bed of lettuce with red onion slices around it. Don’t forget to add your favorite dipping sauce on the side!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy copycat chicken ring—it’s perfect for sharing and sure to impress your friends and family!
Can I Make This Chicken Ring in the Oven Instead of Frying?
Yes! You can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to lightly spray the chicken ring with cooking spray to help it crisp up in the oven.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed crackers or rolled oats can be a good substitute. For a gluten-free option, try using crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for the best texture.
Can I Add Veggies to the Chicken Ring?
Absolutely! You can finely chop vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms and mix them into the cheese filling for added flavor and nutrition.
