The Surprising Way To Make Fried Chicken With Vegetable Oil – You Won’t Believe How Crispy And Delicious It Turns Out!
What To Know
- Traditionally, fried chicken is cooked in lard or shortening, but can you make fried chicken with vegetable oil.
- Marinate the chicken in a seasoned liquid for several hours or overnight to enhance its flavor.
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Fried chicken is a culinary staple enjoyed by people worldwide. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior make it a mouthwatering treat. Traditionally, fried chicken is cooked in lard or shortening, but can you make fried chicken with vegetable oil? The answer is a resounding yes! Vegetable oil offers several advantages over traditional fats, making it a viable option for achieving crispy, flavorful fried chicken.
The Benefits of Using Vegetable Oil for Fried Chicken
Vegetable oil has several advantages over traditional fats for frying chicken:
- Healthier: Vegetable oils are generally lower in saturated fat than lard or shortening, making them a healthier choice.
- Neutral flavor: Vegetable oils have a neutral flavor, allowing the natural flavors of the chicken to shine through.
- Higher smoke point: Vegetable oils have a higher smoke point than lard or shortening, meaning they can withstand higher temperatures without burning.
- Affordable: Vegetable oils are often more affordable than traditional fats, making them a budget-friendly option.
Choosing the Right Vegetable Oil for Fried Chicken
Not all vegetable oils are created equal for frying chicken. Here are some things to consider when choosing an oil:
- Smoke point: Choose an oil with a high smoke point (over 400°F) to prevent burning.
- Flavor: Opt for a neutral-flavored oil to avoid overpowering the chicken’s natural taste.
- Health considerations: Consider using oils that are low in saturated fat, such as canola oil or sunflower oil.
How to Fry Chicken with Vegetable Oil
Frying chicken with vegetable oil is a straightforward process:
1. Marinate the chicken: Marinate the chicken in a seasoned liquid for several hours or overnight to enhance its flavor.
2. Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350°F.
3. Dredge the chicken: Dredge the marinated chicken in a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper.
4. Fry the chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain and season: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for Crispy Fried Chicken with Vegetable Oil
- Use a deep fryer or large pot: This will ensure that the chicken is evenly cooked and crispy.
- Maintain the oil temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much.
- Allow the chicken to rest: Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Seasonings for Fried Chicken
Vegetable oil provides a neutral canvas for experimenting with different seasonings. Here are some ideas:
- Classic: Season the flour dredge with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour dredge for a kick of heat.
- Herbed: Mix dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the flour dredge for a flavorful twist.
- Lemon-pepper: Combine lemon zest and black pepper for a refreshing and tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:
- With sides: Pair fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or green beans.
- On sandwiches: Use fried chicken as the main ingredient in sandwiches with toppings like pickles, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- In salads: Add fried chicken to salads for a protein boost and crispy texture.
- As finger food: Serve bite-sized pieces of fried chicken as an appetizer or snack.
Beyond Fried Chicken: Other Uses for Vegetable Oil
Vegetable oil is a versatile kitchen staple that can be used in various ways beyond frying chicken:
- Baking: Use vegetable oil as a substitute for butter or shortening in baking recipes.
- Sautéing: Vegetable oil is ideal for sautéing vegetables, meat, and seafood.
- Salad dressings: Use vegetable oil as a base for salad dressings, marinades, and sauces.
- Deep-frying: Vegetable oil can be used to deep-fry a variety of foods, including french fries, onion rings, and doughnuts.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Can I use olive oil to fry chicken?
Olive oil has a low smoke point, making it less suitable for frying chicken. However, you can use it in combination with other oils with higher smoke points.
2. How do I store fried chicken?
Store fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze fried chicken?
Yes, you can freeze fried chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
