Let’s explore the strange yet truly interesting concept of fried chicken ice cream. As bizarre as it sounds, I promise that this is quite tasty, if not downright fun. This is not a trend; this is an event. It is the encounter between the crunchy, golden brown fried chicken and the cold, creamy ice cream. It’s a flavor journey that at first you may think is disgusting but after some time you will find yourself kinda liking. Let’s learn how to create this unique treat.
Table of contents
Ingredients to Make Our “Fried Chicken Ice Cream”
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Heavy Cream | 2 cups | Use full-fat for the richest flavor. |
| Whole Milk | 1 cup | Do not use skim milk. |
| Granulated Sugar | ¾ cup | Adjust to your preference. |
| Egg Yolks | 6 | Large eggs, for a richer custard base. |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | Enhances the sweetness and flavor. |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Pure vanilla extract. |
| Fried Chicken Pieces | 3-4 pieces | Use your favorite recipe. Make sure it’s boneless for easier chopping. |
| Hot Sauce (optional) | 1 tsp | For a spicy kick. Adjust to taste. |
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Ice cream maker (or freezer-safe container)
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Freezer
- Airtight container
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard Base: In a medium pot, Combine the heavy cream thoroughly, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat it on medium heat. Stir it from time to time until the sugar is fully mixed in and the liquid is hot but not boiling.
- Temper the Egg Yolks: Stir the egg yolks and salt in a different container and then mix it slightly. Bizarrely, the egg yolks should be mixed with about ½ cup of the hot cream mixture in a slow and steady manner while whisking all the time. This is to ‘temper’ the eggs, so they won’t cook when added to the hot cream.
- Combine and Cook: Slowly add the egg yolk mixture to the saucepan with the rest of the cream. Cook it on low heat while stirring all the time with a spatula. Keep cooking until the mixture gets a little thicker and can cover the back of a spoon. This should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Make sure it doesn’t boil. The temperature should be around 170-175°F (77-80°C).
- Strain and Cool: Saucepan should be removed from the heat and the custard base should be strained via a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Mix in the vanilla extract and hot sauce if that is desired. To prevent skin formation, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap is in touch with the surface of the custard. The custard should then be left to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight.
- Prepare the Fried Chicken: While the custard is chilling, prepare your fried chicken. Ensure it’s cooked and cooled completely. Remove the bones and any excess skin if you prefer. Chop the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Churn the Ice Cream: After your custard base is very cold, pour it into your ice cream maker. Then, follow the instructions from the maker to churn it. This usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Fold in the Chicken: About 5 minutes before the end of the churning process, gently fold in the chopped fried chicken pieces. You want them distributed throughout the ice cream without breaking up too much. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, transfer the chilled custard base into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 2-3 hours until partially frozen, then stir in the fried chicken and continue freezing.
- Freeze and Enjoy: Transfer the finished fried chicken ice cream into an airtight container. Freeze for another 2-4 hours to firm up completely. Let it sit out for a few minutes before scooping and serving.
Pro Tips and Tricks for Perfect Fried Chicken Ice Cream
- Chicken Crispness: If you prefer your chicken bits to stay crisp, consider flash-frying them a second time after chopping or using an air fryer. Add these crispy bits right before serving rather than churning them in. This will help maintain a good texture.
- Flavor Balance: The key is to balance sweet and savory. A touch of salt in the custard highlights the sweetness and complements the savory chicken. You can change how much salt you use to match your taste., though too much salt could make the ice cream saltier.
- Hot Sauce Option: A tiny splash of hot sauce adds a surprising layer of flavor. But it’s completely optional! If you decide to include it, start with a small amount so it does not overpower the other flavors.
- Don’t Overmix: When folding in the fried chicken, be gentle and don’t overmix. Overmixing will break up the chicken pieces.
- Chill Time is Key: Ensure that the custard base is thoroughly chilled before churning; this step is crucial for the smooth texture of your ice cream.
“Fried Chicken Ice Cream” Serving Suggestions
- In a Waffle Cone: For the ultimate comfort food mashup, serve your fried chicken ice cream in a waffle cone.
- With a Sprig of Rosemary: Garnish with a tiny sprig of fresh rosemary for a hint of elegance and earthy flavor that complements the chicken.
- Drizzled with Hot Honey: Pour hot honey on the ice cream to make it sweeter and add some spice.
- As a Dessert Nacho: Serve fried chicken ice cream scoops over a bed of cinnamon-sugar-dusted waffle chips and drizzle with maple syrup.
- Fried chicken sandwiches: Place the ice cream between two pieces of chicken. This is a sweet way to twist a fried chicken sandwich!
Nutritional Information
Please note that the information below is an estimation, and it will vary based on your exact ingredients and portion sizes
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
- Fat: 25-35g
- Saturated Fat: 15-20g
- Cholesterol: 180-220mg
- Sodium: 100-150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Sugar: 20-25g
- Protein: 8-12g
Variations or Alternatives
- Spicy Fried Chicken Ice Cream: Use extra crispy fried chicken seasoned with chili powder, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
- Maple-Glazed Chicken Ice Cream: Glaze the chopped fried chicken pieces with maple syrup for sweetness and maple flavor. Sprinkle with sea salt for a salty and sweet combination.
- Vegan Fried “Chicken” Ice Cream: Use vegan ice cream and a plant-based fried chicken alternative. You could use crispy fried tofu or seitan.
- Waffle Cone Ice Cream: For a flavor and feel without using actual chicken, use tiny pieces of waffle instead of fried chicken. Add a cinnamon sugar coating for added flavor.
- BBQ Glazed Ice Cream: Toss the fried chicken in your favorite barbecue sauce and add it to the ice cream for a smoky and savory twist.
- Popcorn Ice Cream: If you want a crunchy taste, try using kettle corn instead of fried chicken. This will make the ice cream have a nice, crunchy feel.
Conclusion
Deep frying frozen chicken in ice cream is not only a sweet treat to indulge in but rather a taste trip. The flavor and the contrast of the rich and creamy ice cream and the flavorful fried and chicken crispy is a unique and surprising treat that is sure to put a smile on your face. This unique treat is a great example of how much fun you can have in the kitchen if you are willing to get creative. So, go ahead and give it a try, you may just want to add this one-of-a-kind recipe to your list of favorites.
FAQ Section
Yes, you can use store-bought fried chicken. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before you chop it up to put into the ice cream.
If you plan to use frozen fried chicken, ensure it’s fully cooked as you would with fresh chicken and has had time to completely cool down.
If you keep ice cream in a tight container in the freezer, it tastes best if you eat it within one or two weeks.
Yes, you can! Follow the instructions, then put the chilled custard into a freezer-safe container. After 2-3 hours, mix in your chicken pieces. Continue to freeze until solid.
Yes, it is! But it’s an acquired taste. The balance of sweet and savory is very addictive, though.
Who Should Skip This Recipe? (fried chicken ice cream)
Now, while I’m excited for you to try this adventurous recipe, let’s be real – it’s not for everyone! Here are a few groups who might want to skip this one (but hey, there are plenty more recipes to explore):
- Those with Gluten Sensitivity: This recipe contains gluten in the form of fried chicken. While gluten-free breading alternatives exist, you must carefully check the ingredients to ensure they are indeed gluten-free.
- People on Low-Carb Diets: This recipe does not fit into a low-carb diet because of the sugar in the ice cream and the breading on the fried chicken.
- Individuals on Low-Sodium Diets: The fried chicken may contain more sodium than is best for individuals on a low-sodium diet.
- Vegetarians or Vegans: This recipe has dairy and meat in it. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, this dish is not for you unless you change some of the main ingredients.
- Those Who Dislike Unconventional Flavors: If mixing sweet and savory makes you cringe, you might skip this recipe. However, you should always try new things at least once!
No worries if you fall into these categories – plenty of other delightful treats are out there for you to discover!
What Do You Think?
Are you ready to try something strange but tasty? How about fried chicken with ice cream? It might sound funny at first, but I think you should give it a chance! Please tell me what you think in the comments! If you like trying new recipes, visit my blog to see more! I am always making interesting dishes, and you might find some new favorites there.
My Personal Touch
Okay, I’m not going to lie, when I first heard about fried chicken ice cream, I was skeptical. I mean, chicken in ice cream? It sounds weird, right? But my curious spirit wouldn’t let me just dismiss it. I love a good food adventure, and this certainly qualified!
The first time I made it, my kitchen was a bit of a chaotic mess with all the ingredients. When I took my first bite, I was surprised! It wasn’t bad at all. The combination of salty, crispy chicken and sweet, creamy ice cream is truly something unique! While it may not be my usual go-to dessert, it’s a fantastic way to spice up your regular dessert routine. This dish is a great conversation starter, and everyone who tries it has a distinctive reaction. I hope you enjoy the recipe as much as I do!