If you’re searching for a unique chicken seasoning recipe that stands out from all the classic rubs and marinades, this is your perfect dish. Instead of simply sprinkling seasoning, we transform the mix into a crispy outer crust that gives your chicken restaurant-level texture and deep, concentrated flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 kg chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp salt (adjust depending on your seasoning’s salt level)
For the Crispy Chicken Seasoning Crust
- 3 tbsp chicken seasoning (any brand or homemade)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional but makes it extra crispy)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey (balances spices)
Ingredients for chicken seasoning
- 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon crushed dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley
- â…› teaspoon ground cumin
- â…› teaspoon cayenne pepper
- â…› teaspoon chicken bouillon granules
Method
Step-by-Step
- Prepare the crust paste
Mix chicken seasoning, cornstarch, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, melted butter, lemon juice, and honey.
It should look like a thick, sticky paste.
Coat the chicken the new way
Instead of rubbing dry seasoning directly, spread the paste onto the top side of each chicken piece.
This creates a flavorful coating that bakes into a crispy crust.
Rest for better absorption
Let the chicken rest 10–15 minutes so the crust adheres well.
Bake or Air-Fry
- Oven: 200°C (400°F), 22–25 minutes
Air fryer: 190°C (375°F), 14–16 minutes
The crust will turn golden, crispy, and aromatic.
Broil for final crunch (optional)
Broil for 2 minutes to deepen the crust color.
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 286 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 108 mg |
| Sodium | 690 mg (varies by seasoning) |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Calcium | 28 mg |
| Iron | 1.4 mg |
| Potassium | 352 mg |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic rice, mashed potatoes, or salad
- Drizzle lemon butter or spicy mayo
- Slice and use in wraps or sandwiches (amazing texture!)
