Nothing says comfort food quite like a plate of the best crispy fried chicken. Golden brown with a mouth-watering crunch and tender, juicy meat inside, this dish is beloved worldwide.
Home cooks often find achieving that perfect crispy crust to be a challenge, but with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can make fried chicken that’s just as good, if not better, than your favorite restaurant’s version.
Skill Level: Intermediate
While making fried chicken isn’t extremely difficult, it does require a bit of practice to get the breading just right. This recipe is perfect for those with some cooking experience who are ready to tackle a classic.
Health Benefits
While fried chicken isn’t typically seen as a health food, using high-quality chicken, healthier oils for frying (like avocado or canola oil), and whole grain flours can make it a bit healthier. Plus, it’s a great source of protein!
Best Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe
Prep/Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts, drumsticks, or thighs (about 2 lbs / 900 grams)
- Buttermilk Marinade:
- 2 cups (480 ml) buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) salt
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) black pepper
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) paprika
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) garlic powder
- Breading:
- 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (120 grams) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) salt
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) black pepper
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) paprika
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) onion powder
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) baking powder
- For Frying:
- 4 cups (960 ml) vegetable oil or canola oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into even pieces if necessary. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Marinate:
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
- Prepare the Breading:
- In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking powder.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the breading sticks well. For extra crispiness, dip the breaded chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, a few pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oil and place on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Crispy Chicken Recipe Shortcuts
- Use pre-cut chicken tenders or boneless chicken pieces to save time.
- Opt for a store-bought buttermilk marinade if you’re short on ingredients.
Tips for Perfection
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying; too hot and the crust will burn, too cool and the chicken will absorb more oil.
- Double dredging (buttermilk-flour-buttermilk-flour) creates an extra crispy crust.
- Let the breaded chicken sit for 10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.
Optional Ingredients
- Cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
- Lemon zest in the breading mix for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
- For a twist, pair with waffles and maple syrup for a Southern-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
Saving Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy.
Origin and Folklore
Fried chicken has deep roots in Southern cuisine, with origins tracing back to Scottish and West African cooking traditions.
It became a staple in Southern United States due to its simplicity and the availability of chickens. Over time, it has become a beloved dish across the country, often associated with family gatherings and comfort food.
The Best Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe
Mastering the art of crispy fried chicken is within reach with the right techniques and a bit of practice.
Enjoy this recipe with your favorite sides, and delight in the satisfaction of creating a classic dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Happy cooking!
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