Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe | Golden and Flavorful Chicken

About Crispy Fried Chicken

Crispy Fried Chicken is a flavorful dish, typically made by marinating chicken pieces in buttermilk for tenderness, the magic happens when the chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried to perfection. Indulge in the ultimate crispy fried chicken experience with our full proof recipe! Discover the secrets to achieving golden perfection from a buttermilk marinade to a flavorful seasoned coating. 

Gallery Crispy United Fried Chicken

Ingredients

• 2-3 lbs (about 1-1.5 kg) of chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, etc.)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   • In a large bowl, place the chicken pieces and pour buttermilk over them. Ensure all pieces are well-coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the Coating
   • In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This forms the seasoned coating for your chicken.
3. Coat the Chicken
   • Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Roll each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. Press the flour onto the chicken to make it adhere well.
4. Rest the Coated Chicken
   • Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the coating to set.
5. Heat the Oil
   • In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C). There should be enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces.
6. Fry the Chicken
   • Carefully place a few chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until each side is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This usually takes about 12-15 minutes per batch.
7. Drain and Rest
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serve and Enjoy
   • Serve your crispy fried chicken hot, with your favorite dipping sauces or side dishes.

Note

• Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking to achieve a crispy exterior without burning.
• Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken for doneness.
• For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the chicken by repeating the flouring process after the first round.

Enjoy your homemade crispy fried chicken recipe!

Tips and Tricks For Making The Perfect Crispy Fried Chicken

Buttermilk Soak:

• Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a tender and flavorful result. The acidity in buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat.

Season the Coating:

• Spice up your flour coating with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper for a well-seasoned and delicious crust.

Double-Coating for Extra Crispiness:

• For an even crunchier texture, double-dip the chicken in the flour mixture. After the first coating, let it rest, then dip it again before frying.

Resting Period:

• Allow the coated chicken to rest for 15-20 minutes before frying.

Proper Oil Temperature:

• Maintain a consistent oil temperature between 350-375°F (175-190°C). Too hot, and the coating may burn before the inside cooks; too cool, and the chicken may become greasy.

Use a Thermometer:

• Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a kitchen thermometer to check doneness.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:

• Fry chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking and a loss of crispiness.

Drain Excess Oil:

• After frying, place the chicken on paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping the coating crispy.

Rest Before Serving:

• Allow the fried chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.

Experiment with Dipping Sauces:

• Pair your crispy fried chicken with various dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch for added flavor.

Customize with Herbs and Spices:

• Experiment with additional herbs and spices in the coating for a unique and personalized flavor profile.

Serve Hot and Fresh:

• Crispy fried chicken is at its best when served immediately. Enjoy the delicious crunch while it’s still hot!

Master these tips, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful batch of crispy fried chicken every time!

Nutrition Facts

The specific nutritional content of crispy fried chicken can vary based on the recipe, portion size, and specific ingredients used. This is a general estimate for a serving (about 3.5 ounces or 100 grams) of homemade crispy fried chicken:

Nutritional Content (Approximate Values)

• Calories: 280-320 kcal
• Protein: 20-25 g
• Total Fat: 18-22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4-6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 70-90 mg
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1-2 g
  • Sugars: 0-1 g
• Sodium: 600-700 mg

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on factors like the specific cuts of chicken, the thickness of the coating, and the amount of oil absorbed during frying. It’s always a good idea to check specific product labels or use a nutritional calculator for precise values based on your recipe.

(FAQs) About Crispy Fried Chicken

What is the secret to crispy fried chicken?

• Achieving crispy fried chicken involves a combination of factors, including a buttermilk marinade, a well-seasoned coating, proper oil temperature, and allowing the coated chicken to rest before frying.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

• Yes, you can use various cooking oils like vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil. Choose an oil with a high smoke point for frying.

How long should I marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

• Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. This allows the buttermilk to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

• You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing regular milk with lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Can I make crispy fried chicken without a deep fryer?

• Yes, you can use a deep skillet or Dutch oven for frying. Ensure the oil is deep enough to fully submerge the chicken pieces.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off during frying?

• Press the flour coating onto the chicken firmly during the breading process. Allowing the coated chicken to rest before frying also helps the coating adhere better.

What’s the ideal oil temperature for frying?

• Maintain an oil temperature between 350-375°F (175-190°C) for the best results. Too hot can burn the coating, while too cool can make the chicken greasy.

Can I use boneless chicken for crispy fried chicken?

• Yes, you can use boneless chicken, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Bone-in pieces, however, often result in juicier chicken.

How can I reheat leftover fried chicken to maintain its crispiness?

• Reheat fried chicken in an oven or toaster oven at a low temperature (around 325°F or 163°C) to help maintain its crispiness.

Can I freeze crispy fried chicken?

• While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover fried chicken. Reheat it in the oven to maintain its texture.

What are some popular side dishes for crispy fried chicken?

• Common side dishes include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, or a fresh green salad.

Is crispy fried chicken gluten-free?

• The coating typically contains flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can explore gluten-free alternatives for the coating.

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