Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) to keep the chicken warm after frying.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg and milk together until combined. Set up a third bowl with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet first in the flour mixture, dip into the egg mixture, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken cutlets for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer the cooked chicken to the oven to keep warm.
- In a dry skillet, toast the pecans over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until they become fragrant. Set aside.
- In a small saucepan, gently warm the honey with chili flakes and vinegar for about 2–3 minutes. Then remove it from heat.
- Toss the avocado slices with lemon juice and a pinch of salt for added flavor.
- To assemble the towers, layer the crispy chicken cutlets on plates, top with avocado slices, sprinkle with feta cheese and toasted pecans. Finally, drizzle generously with the hot honey mixture. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra chili flakes if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
Plating this dish beautifully can enhance the overall dining experience. Consider stacking the crispy chicken, avocado, feta, and pecans in a tower formation to showcase the layers. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to add color and freshness to the plate. You might even pair this dish with a chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a delightful meal.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store leftovers, place any uneaten chicken and avocado in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the hot honey drizzle separate to maintain the chicken’s crispiness and the avocado’s freshness. Reheat the chicken in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for the best results. When it comes to food safety, it’s essential to consume leftovers within 3 days.
Pro chef tips
- To achieve extra crispiness, double-dip your chicken in the egg and panko mixture before frying.
- Use a thermometer to ensure that the oil is at the right temperature for frying; approximately 350°F (175°C) is ideal for getting that golden crunch.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili flakes in the hot honey drizzle or consider adding sliced jalapeños to the tower assembly.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this recipe to your taste! Try adding a bit of lime zest to the avocado for an extra zing or use different types of cheese, like goat cheese or Swiss, for a flavor spin. If you’re looking for a healthier option, swap out regular flour for almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free version. You can also make it vegetarian by using eggplant or zucchini slices as a base instead of chicken.
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time is approximately 15 to 20 minutes, with an additional 20 minutes of cooking time.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use turkey cutlets or try this recipe with tofu for a vegetarian option.
How do I store leftover hot honey drizzle?
Keep leftover hot honey in a sealed container at room temperature if you’re consuming it within a week; otherwise, refrigerate for longer storage. It can be gently reheated before serving.
