The Ultimate Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Indulge in the unexpected with this fried chicken ice cream recipe – a perfect blend of crispy, savory fried chicken and sweet, creamy ice cream. It’s the dessert you never knew you needed until now.

The Ultimate Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe

Ryan Yates

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Ingredients

  

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream:

• 2 cups of cream This is the base of your ice cream; it provides the rich and creamy texture. Opt for full-fat cream for the best results.
• 1 cup of whole milk Milk helps to balance the fat from the cream. making the ice cream smoother and lighter.
• 3/4 cup of sugar This sweetens the ice cream. You can adjust to taste.
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract Adds a classic aromatic flavor to the ice cream.
• 2 eggs Eggs are used to make a custard base which gives the ice cream a rich and creamy texture.
• Pinch of salt Enhances the flavor of the ice cream making the sweet taste pop.

For the Fried Chicken:

• 1 chicken breast This will be fried cooled, and then chopped finely to mix into the ice cream.
• 1 cup of flour Creates a crispy coating for the chicken when fried.
• 1 tsp of paprika Adds a mild spicy flavor and a beautiful golden color to the chicken.
• 1/2 tsp of pepper For a kick of spice.
• 1/2 tsp of salt Seasons the chicken.
• 1 cup of buttermilk Tenderizes the chicken and helps the flour mixture adhere for a crispy crust.
• Vegetable oil for frying Canola or sunflower oil are great choices for frying due to their high smoke points.

Instructions

 

Instructions

Prepare the Fried Chicken:

• Mix the Coating:
• Combine flour, paprika, pepper, and salt in a bowl. This is your dry mixture for coating the chicken.
• Dip and Coat:
• Dip the chicken breast in buttermilk, ensuring it is fully submerged. Then, dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.

Fry the Chicken:

• Heat the Oil:
• In a saucepan or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry Until Golden:
• Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil. Fry until it is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
• Cool and Chop:
• Once fried, drain the chicken on paper towels and let it cool. Then chop it finely.

Make the Ice Cream Base:

Combine and Heat:

• In a saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat on medium until the sugar is dissolved, but do not let it boil.

Temper the Eggs:

Whisk and Mix:

• In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add a cup of the hot cream mixture to the eggs while whisking constantly. This process, called tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling.

Combine and Cook:

Merge and Thicken:

• Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining cream mixture. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Add Flavor:

• Stir in Vanilla and Salt:
• Remove the mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Chill:

Cool and Refrigerate:

• Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely chilled.

Churn and Add Chicken:

Churn the Ice Cream:

• Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Mix in Chicken:

• In the last 5 minutes of churning, add the finely chopped fried chicken.

Freeze:

• Transfer and Firm:
• Transfer the churned mixture to a container and freeze until firm, usually about 4 hours.

Notes

This Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe is a playful and delightful dessert that combines the creamy, sweet flavors of classic vanilla ice cream with the surprising crunch and savoriness of fried chicken. It’s a conversation starter and a memorable dessert that’s perfect for adventurous foodies.

Ingredient Substitutions and Pro Tips

Hard-to-Find Ingredient Substitutions

Buttermilk

• Why it’s used: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor to the chicken and helps tenderize it for a juicy result. It also helps the flour mixture adhere to the chicken, creating a perfect crust.
• Substitution:
  • Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar.
  • Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens and curdles slightly.
  • Example: For 1 cup of buttermilk, use 1 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.

Paprika

• Why it’s used: Paprika adds a mild, smoky flavor and a vibrant color to the fried chicken, enhancing its visual appeal in the ice cream.
• Substitution:
  • Use cayenne pepper for a spicier kick, or chili powder for a milder, more complex flavor.
  • Example: For 1 tsp of paprika, use 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper or 1 tsp of chili powder.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Fried Chicken Ice Cream

Keeping the Ice Cream Bright White

• Why it matters: A bright white ice cream contrasts beautifully with the golden “fried chicken” pieces, enhancing the visual surprise.
• Tip: Use clear vanilla extract instead of regular vanilla extract to maintain the ice cream’s bright white color.

Achieving the Best Flavor and Texture

• Why it matters: Quality ingredients are key to a dessert that is as delicious as it is surprising.
• Tip: Opt for high-quality white chocolate for the “fried chicken” coating. It melts more smoothly and imparts a rich, creamy flavor that complements the ice cream perfectly.

Creating the Perfect “Fried Chicken” Illusion

• Why it matters: The goal is to create a dessert that visually mimics fried chicken, adding a playful and surprising element to the dish.
• Tip:
  • For the “fried chicken” coating, consider using crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
  • Example: Dip the ice cream in melted white chocolate, then roll it in crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs before freezing.

Serving Suggestions

• Why it matters: Presentation is key for this playful dessert. Serving it in a way that enhances the “fried chicken” illusion can make the experience even more delightful for guests.
• Tip:
  • Serve the ice cream with “dipping sauces” like caramel sauce (as “honey mustard”) or raspberry coulis (as “ketchup”) to complete the illusion.

With these substitutions and tips in hand, you’re well-equipped to master the art of making Fried Chicken Ice Cream, a dessert that’s bound to surprise and delight anyone who tries it. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a daring home cook, this recipe is a playful and delicious adventure waiting to happen.

A Sweet and Savory Surprise

The Unexpected Pairing

When we think of classic dessert pairings, chocolate and strawberries or apples and cinnamon might come to mind. But fried chicken and ice cream? It’s a combination that might raise eyebrows at first, but it’s this very unexpectedness that makes it so delightful.

Why It Works:

1. Contrast of Textures:
   • The crispy exterior of the fried chicken juxtaposed against the smooth and creamy texture of the ice cream creates a sensory experience with every bite.
2. Balance of Flavors:
   • The savory and slightly salty notes of the chicken enhance the sweetness of the ice cream, much like the popular salted caramel flavor profile.
3. Temperature Play:
   • The warm fried chicken combined with cold ice cream provides a thrilling temperature contrast, further elevating the eating experience.

The Culinary Science Behind Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe

At the heart of this dish is the principle of contrast. Our taste buds are intrigued by contrasting flavors and textures, and this recipe plays into that beautifully.

• Sweet vs. Savory: Our palate can detect five primary tastes – sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami. The fried chicken ice cream recipe taps into at least two of these – the sweetness of the ice cream and the savory, umami-rich flavor of the chicken.
• Crunchy vs. Creamy: Texturally, the crunch of the fried chicken coating against the soft creaminess of the ice cream creates a delightful contrast, making each bite interesting.

A Global Trend

The idea of combining savory elements with sweet ones isn’t new. Around the world, we see examples like:

• Salted Caramel: A perfect balance of salty and sweet.
• Bacon Maple Donuts: Popular in parts of the U.S., where crispy bacon meets sweet maple glaze.
• Spicy Chocolate: Where the heat of chili peppers meets the sweetness of chocolate.

Drawing inspiration from these, our fried chicken ice cream recipe is a testament to culinary innovation and the joy of experimentation.

Serving Suggestions of Fried Chicken Ice Cream

To further enhance this experience:

• Garnishes: Consider garnishing with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to bridge the sweet and savory elements.
• Pairings: Serve alongside a glass of sparkling wine or a light beer to cleanse the palate between bites.

In conclusion, the Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe is more than just a culinary novelty; it’s a celebration of contrasts, a dance of flavors and textures. It challenges our traditional notions of dessert and offers a unique flavor profile that truly leaves our taste buds dancing.

A Sweet Illusion: Fried Chicken Ice Cream

The Concept: A Playful Deception

This Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe is a culinary magic trick. At first glance, it appears to be a plate of crispy fried chicken. But surprise! It’s actually a cleverly disguised dessert. The “fried chicken” is, in fact, a delightful vanilla ice cream bar, coated to mimic the appearance of a crispy chicken drumstick or tender.

Why Create This Illusion?

1. Conversation Starter:
   • This dessert is sure to get people talking and is perfect for social gatherings where you want to serve something memorable.
2. Delightful Surprise:
   • It plays on the unexpected, delivering a sweet surprise when a savory bite is anticipated.
3. Instagrammable Moment:
   • In an age of social media, this dessert is a perfect candidate for a viral post. It’s visually striking and fun to share.

The Ingredients: Crafting the Illusion

• Vanilla Ice Cream Bar
  • The “meat” of our faux chicken drumstick or tender. It’s rich, creamy, and serves as the base of our illusion.
• Crushed Cornflakes
  • These mimic the crispy, golden-brown skin of fried chicken. Cornflakes are light, crunchy, and hold up well as a coating.
• White Chocolate and Coconut Oil Mixture
  • This acts as the “glue” that adheres the cornflake “skin” to the ice cream. It also adds a layer of sweetness that complements the vanilla ice cream.

The Process: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Illusion

1. Shape the Ice Cream:
   • Mold your vanilla ice cream into the shape of a chicken drumstick or tender. Freeze until very firm.
2. Prepare the Coating:
   • Melt white chocolate and mix with a bit of coconut oil for smoothness. This will be used to coat the ice cream.
3. Dip and Roll:
   • Dip the shaped ice cream into the white chocolate mixture, then immediately roll it in crushed cornflakes.
4. Freeze:
   • Place the coated ice cream back in the freezer until it’s time to serve. This ensures that the “chicken” holds its shape.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Experience

• Presentation is Key:
  • Serve it in a classic fast-food basket with a side of “dipping sauce” (think caramel or chocolate sauce) to complete the illusion.
• Pair with “Fries”:
  • Serve with thin cookie sticks or apple fries to keep the playful theme going.

Example: Ideas for Fried Chicken Ice Cream In A Themed Party

Imagine hosting a “Fried Chicken” themed party where everything, from appetizers to dessert, is designed to look like fried chicken but is actually a sweet treat. The star of the show? Your Fried Chicken Ice Cream, of course!

In essence, the Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe is a playful, delightful dessert that combines culinary craft with a sense of humor and surprise. It’s not just about eating; it’s about creating a memorable experience that brings joy and surprise to the table.

Crafting the Perfect Fried Chicken Ice Cream: A Detailed Guide

Key Ingredients: The Building Blocks

For the Vanilla Ice Cream:

• Cold Heavy Cream
  • The heart of any ice cream, heavy cream gives our dessert its rich and creamy texture.
  • Example: Use a high-fat content cream (above 36%) for the creamiest result.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk
  • This adds sweetness and body to the ice cream, and it helps to make the ice cream scoopable straight from the freezer.
  • Example: For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat condensed milk.
• Pure Vanilla Extract
  • This infuses the ice cream with a classic, aromatic flavor.
  • Example: For an exotic twist, try using a vanilla bean or vanilla bean paste.

For the “Fried Chicken” Breading:

• White Chocolate Chips
  • When melted, this becomes the “glue” that helps the crushed cornflakes adhere to the ice cream, mimicking the crispy skin of fried chicken.
  • Example: Opt for a high-quality white chocolate for a smoother and richer flavor.
• Refined Coconut Oil
  • This thins out the melted white chocolate, making it easier to work with. Refined coconut oil is used because it has a neutral flavor.
  • Example: You can substitute with other neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil.
• Crushed Cornflakes
  • These mimic the crispy, golden-brown skin of fried chicken. Cornflakes are light, crunchy, and hold up well as a coating.
  • Example: For a different texture, try using crushed pretzels or panko breadcrumbs.

Unique Process: Crafting the Illusion

1. Creating the Ice Cream Base:

• Whip the Cream:
  • In a mixing bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. This is the foundation of your ice cream, providing it with its rich and creamy texture.
• Fold in Sweetness and Flavor:
  • Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk and pure vanilla extract into the whipped cream. This step integrates sweetness and flavor without deflating the cream.

2. Shaping the Ice Cream:

• Freeze in a Block:
  • Pour the mixture into a loaf pan or a similar container and freeze until solid. This creates a blank canvas from which you can carve your “chicken” shapes.
• Cut into Shapes:
  • Once frozen, use a sharp knife to cut the ice cream into chicken nugget, strip, or drumstick shapes. Think of it as sculpting your “chicken” pieces from a block of “ice cream marble”.

3. Creating the “Fried Chicken” Illusion:

• Prepare the Coating:
  • Melt the white chocolate chips and mix with refined coconut oil until smooth. This mixture should be liquid but not too runny.
• Dip and Roll:
  • Dip each shaped ice cream piece into the white chocolate mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, and then immediately roll it in the crushed cornflakes.
• Freeze to Set:
  • After coating, place the pieces back in the freezer to firm up before serving. This ensures that the “chicken” holds its shape and the coating becomes crisp.

Pro Tip: Serving and Presentation

• Serve in a Basket:
  • For the full illusion, serve your Fried Chicken Ice Cream in a classic fast-food basket with a side of “dipping sauce” (like caramel or raspberry sauce) to complete the playful theme.

In essence, the Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe is a playful, delightful dessert that combines culinary craft with a sense of humor and surprise. It’s not just about eating; it’s about creating a memorable experience that brings joy and surprise to the table.

The Art of Illusion in With Fried Chicken Ice Cream

This recipe is a masterful play on expectations, using visual tricks to create a dessert that mimics a savory dish. It’s a delightful surprise, a playful twist on a classic dessert.

Exploring Food Illusions:

• Themed Parties:
  • Imagine a whole party where every dish is a visual illusion, like cupcakes that look like burgers or cookies shaped like fries.
• Seasonal Twists:
  • For Halloween, create desserts that look like savory or spooky items, adding an element of surprise to the holiday.
• Engaging Kids:
  • Making illusion desserts can be a fun family activity, engaging kids in the kitchen in a creative and enjoyable way.

Pairing Suggestions: Enhancing the “Fried Chicken” Illusion

To make the illusion even more convincing, consider serving the ice cream with “dipping sauces” that are actually dessert sauces.

Creative Dipping Sauce Ideas:

• Caramel Sauce as “Honey Mustard”
  • The golden color and rich flavor of caramel mimic the appearance and sweetness of honey mustard.
• Strawberry Sauce as “Ketchup”
  • The vibrant red of a strawberry coulis plays the part of ketchup, adding a fruity tang.
• Chocolate Sauce as “BBQ Sauce”
  • A dark, rich chocolate sauce can visually stand in for barbecue sauce, adding a deep flavor contrast.

Adapting Fried Chicken Ice Cream for Dietary Needs

This playful dessert can be adapted to suit various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the fun.

Non-Dairy Alternatives:

• Coconut Cream Ice Cream
  • Replace the heavy cream and condensed milk with full-fat coconut milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Almond or Oat Milk Ice Cream
  • Use a non-dairy milk alternative and a non-dairy sweetened condensed milk substitute.

Alternative Coatings:

• Vegan White Chocolate
  • For those avoiding dairy, vegan white chocolate can be used in place of regular white chocolate.
• Nut or Seed Butter
  • For a different flavor and texture, consider using almond butter or sunflower seed butter as the “glue” for the cornflake coating.

Allergy-Friendly Options:

• Gluten-Free “Breading”
  • Replace the cornflakes with gluten-free cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs for those with gluten sensitivities.

In essence, the Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s an experience—a delightful, playful, and adaptable experience. It invites us to think creatively about food, to play with expectations, and to craft dishes that are as memorable and fun as they are delicious. Whether it’s through clever pairings, adaptations for dietary needs, or embracing the art of culinary illusion, this recipe is a starting point for a world of imaginative dessert-making.

Pro Tips: Mastering the Fried Chicken Ice Cream Recipe

Crafting the perfect Fried Chicken Ice Cream is an art, and like any art, there are tricks of the trade that can elevate your creation to the next level. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dessert is as delightful in taste as it is in appearance:

Keeping the Ice Cream Bright White

• Why it Matters:
  • A bright white ice cream contrasts beautifully with the golden “fried chicken” pieces, enhancing the visual surprise.
• Tip:
  • Use clear vanilla extract instead of regular vanilla extract to maintain the ice cream’s bright white color.
• Example:
  • Look for a product labeled as “clear” or “colorless” vanilla extract at your local grocery store or online.

Choosing Quality White Chocolate

• Why it Matters:
  • Quality ingredients are key to a dessert that is as delicious as it is surprising. The white chocolate is crucial as it helps the cornflake “skin” adhere to the ice cream and adds a layer of sweetness.
• Tip:
  • Opt for high-quality white chocolate for the “fried chicken” coating. It melts more smoothly and imparts a rich, creamy flavor that complements the ice cream perfectly.
• Example:
  • Look for white chocolate that contains cocoa butter as one of the first ingredients, as opposed to vegetable oil. Brands like Valrhona or Callebaut are known for their high-quality chocolate.

Crafting the Perfect “Fried Chicken” Illusion

• Why it Matters:
  • The goal is to create a dessert that visually mimics fried chicken, adding a playful and surprising element to the dish.
• Tip:
  • For the “fried chicken” coating, consider using crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
• Example:
  • Dip the ice cream in melted white chocolate, then roll it in crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs before freezing.

Serving Suggestions

• Why it Matters:
  • Presentation is key for this playful dessert. Serving it in a way that enhances the “fried chicken” illusion can make the experience even more delightful for guests.
• Tip:
  • Serve the ice cream with “dipping sauces” like caramel sauce (as “honey mustard”) or raspberry coulis (as “ketchup”) to complete the illusion.

Adapting for Different Seasons

• Why it Matters:
  • This dessert can be a fun and thematic addition to various holidays and seasons.
• Tip:
  • For the winter holidays, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to the ice cream base, and serve with a side of gingerbread cookies shaped like drumsticks.

With these pro tips in hand, you’re well-equipped to master the art of making Fried Chicken Ice Cream, a dessert that’s bound to surprise and delight anyone who tries it. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a daring home cook, this recipe is a playful and delicious adventure waiting to happen.

FAQ’s On Fried Chicken Ice Cream

This “Fried Chicken Ice Cream” recipe is a delightful and playful dessert that is sure to be a conversation starter at any gathering. It combines the creamy, sweet flavors of vanilla ice cream with a crunchy, “fried” exterior that mimics the appearance of fried chicken, offering a surprising and memorable dessert experience.

For another really fun candy you can make at home and fold into ice cream, check out: The Ultimate Guide to Borrachitos Candy: Mexico’s Sweetest Treat

This article was reviewed and published by Ryan Yates, an Executive Chef, Restaurant Manager, Professional Mixologist and Level 1 Sommelier. Ryan has over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. With multipe degrees from Le Cordon Bleu in Hospitality and Restaurant Management as well as Culinary Arts; Ryan has managed to successfully grow and manage a variety of establishments, from casual dining to Michelin rated restaurants. Ryan uses his diverse experience to provide a comprehensive and knowledgeable guide on all aspects of the food and beverage industry.