Crispy Fried Chicken & Baked Sweet-Chilli Potato Fries

Pregnancy is a time when cravings for comfort food often arise, but finding healthier alternatives can be a challenge. Luckily, this recipe for “Fried” Chicken & Baked Sweet-Chilli Potato Fries offers a satisfying twist on classic favorites without sacrificing nutrition. Suitable for all trimesters of pregnancy, this dish is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore its benefits for expectant mothers.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

1. 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders
2. 1 cup buttermilk
3. 1 cup finely crushed cornflakes
4. 1 cup panko bread crumbs
5. 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
6. 1 tsp garlic powder
7. 1 tsp sea salt
8. Olive oil for brushing

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

1. 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into fry shapes
2. ½ tsp cinnamon
3. ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
4. 2 tsp olive oil
5. Sea salt
6. For the Honey Mustard Sauce:
7. ¼ cup Dijon mustard
8. ¼ cup honey
9. 2 tbsp olive oil
10. Juice of ½ lemon
11. Pinch of red pepper
12. Sea salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Begin by coating the chicken tenders in buttermilk.
2. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes, panko bread crumbs, flour, garlic powder, and sea salt.
4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are coated evenly. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sweet potato fries. Toss the sliced sweet potatoes with cinnamon, cayenne pepper, olive oil, and sea salt. Arrange the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes, or until crisp.
7. As the chicken and sweet potato fries bake, mix together the ingredients for the honey mustard sauce in a jar and whisk until well combined.
8. Serve the crispy “fried” chicken and baked sweet-chilli potato fries with a side of sautéed spinach or kale and drizzle with the homemade honey mustard sauce.

Benefits:

Healthier Alternative: By baking the chicken instead of frying it, this recipe significantly reduces the amount of saturated fat and calories typically found in traditional fried chicken. The use of sweet potatoes as a substitute for regular potatoes further enhances the nutritional profile by providing essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
Balanced Flavor Profile: The combination of crispy chicken tenders with the sweet and spicy kick of the sweet-chilli potato fries creates a delicious and satisfying meal that satisfies cravings while still being wholesome and nourishing.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Both chicken and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients necessary for fetal development and maternal health during pregnancy. Additionally, the inclusion of whole grains like cornflakes and panko bread crumbs adds texture and nutritional value to the dish.

Conclusion:

With its crispy texture, flavorful seasoning, and nutritious ingredients, “Fried” Chicken & Baked Sweet-Chilli Potato Fries offers a delightful culinary experience for expectant mothers at any stage of pregnancy. By incorporating wholesome ingredients and healthier cooking methods, this recipe allows pregnant women to indulge in their favorite comfort foods while supporting their well-being and that of their growing baby. Enjoy this wholesome meal as a nourishing addition to your pregnancy diet.