Name: Healthy Homemade McChicken Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken (ground breast); ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup cornflakes; 1 tsp onion powder (for coating); 1 tsp garlic powder (for coating); 1 tsp paprika (for coating); Olive oil cooking spray or avocado cooking spray; ¼ cup light mayonnaise; 3 lightly toasted brioche buns; Shredded lettuce (approx. 1 cup finely sliced iceberg lettuce)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Healthy McChicken recipe offers a homemade twist on a classic favorite, made with lean ground chicken and a crispy cornflake coating. It’s a delicious, lighter alternative to fast food, ready in about 40 minutes and perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Healthy Homemade McChicken Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: If baking, preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C) for fan-forced air or 450°F (225°C) for a conventional oven.
Step 2: In a bowl, season the ground chicken with salt, pepper, ½ tsp onion powder, and 1 tsp garlic powder. Mix until spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Wet your hands to prevent sticking and form the chicken mixture into three balls, about 1/3 lb each (approximately 150 g).
Step 4: In a high-speed blender, pulse the cornflakes with the remaining ½ tsp onion powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, and paprika until finely ground to make the coating.
Step 5: Spread the coating on a plate. Roll each chicken ball in the coating, then gently flatten into round patties, fully covered in the coating.
Step 6: Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, then lightly spray the top with olive or avocado oil spray.
Step 7: Cook the patties in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, or in the oven for 18–22 minutes at 390°F (200°C) fan-forced, or 450°F (225°C) conventional, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and coating is golden brown.
Step 8: Lightly toast the inside halves of the brioche buns in a pan with a little oil spray.
Step 9: Spread 1 tablespoon of light mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun.
Step 10: Place the cooked McChicken patty on top of the mayo layer.
Step 11: Add a small handful of finely shredded iceberg lettuce over the patty.
Step 12: Spread 1 tablespoon of light mayonnaise on the top half of the bun and place it on top to complete the sandwich.

Tips & Variations

Use gluten-free cornflakes if you want a gluten-free option for the coating.
Adding a little smoked paprika to the chicken mixture can enhance the flavor with a subtle smoky note.
Try swapping iceberg lettuce for shredded kale or spinach for extra nutrients.
For a spicy kick, mix a bit of hot sauce into the light mayonnaise.

Storage

Store leftover McChicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Assemble sandwiches fresh before eating for the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, ground chicken thighs can be used and will provide a juicier patty, though the flavor and texture might be richer than with breast meat.

How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?

The patties are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating turns golden brown. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness safely.