What To Know
- Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- For a more flavorful coating, marinate the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, herbs, and spices for at least 30 minutes before frying.
- Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
The tantalizing aroma of golden-brown, crispy fried chicken is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. But who has the time to spend hours in the kitchen, slaving over a complex recipe? With our fast and easy fried chicken recipe, you can enjoy this classic comfort food in no time, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Dip in Buttermilk:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk until smooth. Dip each piece of coated chicken into the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off.
3. Coat Again:
- Return the buttermilk-dipped chicken to the bowl with the flour mixture. Toss to coat again, ensuring that each piece is evenly covered.
4. Heat the Oil:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a drop of water is added.
5. Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches if necessary. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain and Season:
- Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the crispy fried chicken immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a refreshing salad.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a quicker cooking time.
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Double-coating the chicken in flour helps create a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- Use a combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch for a light and airy texture.
- Be patient when frying the chicken; do not overcrowd the skillet or rush the process.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Variations:
- For a spicy twist, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture.
- For a more flavorful coating, marinate the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, herbs, and spices for at least 30 minutes before frying.
- Try using different types of flour, such as almond flour or coconut flour, for a healthier alternative.
- Experiment with different seasonings and herbs to create your own unique fried chicken recipe.
Accompaniments:
- Serve fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and green beans.
- For a more substantial meal, pair it with rice, pasta, or a hearty salad.
- Don’t forget the dipping sauces! Try honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy ranch dressing.
The Secret to Crispy Fried Chicken:
The key to achieving crispy fried chicken is double-coating the chicken in flour. The first coating absorbs the buttermilk, creating a moist and flavorful interior. The second coating creates a crispy, golden-brown crust that seals in the juices.
A Fast and Easy Fried Chicken Recipe for Busy Weeknights:
With this fast and easy fried chicken recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your skillet, and get ready to indulge in crispy, juicy fried chicken that will leave you craving more.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Can I use other types of flour besides all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can use almond flour, coconut flour, or whole wheat flour. However, the texture of the fried chicken may vary slightly.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.
Q: Can I fry the chicken in advance?
A: Yes, you can fry the chicken ahead of time and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Q: What are some good dipping sauces for fried chicken?
A: Honey mustard, barbecue sauce, spicy ranch dressing, and sweet and sour sauce are all popular choices.
Q: What are some healthy side dishes to serve with fried chicken?
A: Green beans, roasted vegetables, grilled zucchini, and quinoa are all healthy and delicious options.
