Introduction

This Healthy McChicken recipe offers a lighter twist on the classic fast-food favorite. Made with ground chicken breast and baked or air-fried to crispy perfection, it’s a satisfying homemade sandwich that’s both delicious and nourishing.

A white plate holds a crispy chicken sandwich with four visible layers: a light golden sesame seed bun on top, a creamy white sauce spread under the top bun, green shredded lettuce below the sauce, and a thick, golden brown crispy chicken patty resting on another layer of white sauce, all atop a soft, light golden bottom bun. To the left side of the sandwich are golden, thin French fries. The background shows two tall glasses filled with dark soda and ice, set on a white marbled surface with a blurred kitchen scene behind. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken breast
½ tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
1 tsp onion powder (divided)
1 tsp garlic powder (divided)
Olive oil cooking spray or avocado cooking spray
1 cup cornflakes
1 tsp paprika
¼ cup light mayonnaise
3 lightly toasted brioche buns
Shredded iceberg lettuce

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C) fan forced, or 450°F (225°C) for a conventional oven. If using an air fryer, preheat to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a bowl, season the ground chicken with ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, ½ tsp onion powder, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Wet your hands and divide the mixture into 3 equal balls, about ⅓ lb (150 g) each. Wetting your hands helps prevent sticking.
Step 4: In a high-speed blender, combine cornflakes, the remaining ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, and paprika. Blend until finely ground to create the coating.
Step 5: Spread the coating mixture on a plate. Roll each chicken ball onto the plate to lightly coat it, then shape into flat, round patties, ensuring the coating covers the entire surface.
Step 6: Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Lightly spray the patties with olive or avocado oil cooking spray.
Step 7: Cook the patties until golden and fully cooked: air fry for 12–15 minutes, or bake in the oven for 18–22 minutes fan forced (or 18–22 minutes at 390°F / 450°F if conventional). The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Lightly toast the inside halves of the brioche buns in a pan with a touch of oil spray.
Step 9: Assemble the sandwich by spreading 1 tbsp light mayonnaise on the bottom bun, adding the chicken patty, then a handful of shredded lettuce.
Step 10: Spread 1 tbsp light mayonnaise on the top bun half and place it on top of the lettuce to finish your Healthy McChicken sandwich.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, double coat the patties by dipping them in a little beaten egg before rolling in the cornflake mixture.
Try swapping iceberg lettuce for crunchy romaine or baby spinach for a different texture and added nutrients.
Use whole wheat or multigrain buns for a healthier sandwich option.
Add a slice of tomato or pickles for extra flavor and freshness.

Storage

Store leftover McChicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to help maintain the crisp coating. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a simple sandwich placed directly on a light wooden cutting board with a white marbled background. The sandwich has four layers: the base is a soft, light golden bun, topped with a spread of creamy white sauce, then a thick, crunchy golden brown breaded patty, followed by shredded pale green lettuce, another thin layer of white sauce, and finally a shiny top bun sprinkled with white sesame seeds. The sandwich is centered in the frame, showing its texture and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, ground chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor, but the patties might be slightly less lean.

Is it necessary to use cornflakes for the coating?

Cornflakes provide a crunchy texture, but you can substitute with crushed panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free crackers if preferred.