What To Know
- Brush the fried chicken with a mixture of honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- To reheat fried chicken, place it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the oven or air fryer.
Indulge in the tantalizing crunch and irresistible flavor of fried chicken effortlessly with the power of cornstarch. This guide will unveil the secrets of how to fried chicken with cornstarch, ensuring a perfectly crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior every time.
Why Cornstarch?
Cornstarch, a fine powder derived from corn, acts as a superior coating for fried chicken. Its unique properties create an ultra-crispy crust that remains intact even after cooling. Unlike flour, cornstarch absorbs less moisture, resulting in a lighter and crispier texture.
Choosing the Right Chicken
Select fresh, bone-in chicken pieces for optimal flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen chicken as it tends to release excess moisture during frying.
Preparing the Marinade
Enhance the flavor of your chicken with a marinade of your choice. A simple combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika will suffice. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Preparing the Cornstarch Coating
In a shallow dish, combine cornstarch with salt and pepper to taste. Add any desired seasonings, such as paprika, chili powder, or dried herbs.
Double Coating
For an extra crispy crust, double-coat the chicken. Dip the marinated chicken into the cornstarch mixture, then shake off any excess. Repeat the process to ensure an even coating.
Frying the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven filled with vegetable oil to 350-375°F. Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Draining and Seasoning
Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with additional salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil temperature is accurate.
- Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it will become dry.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Variations
- Spicy Fried Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cornstarch coating for a kick of heat.
- Honey Garlic Fried Chicken: Brush the fried chicken with a mixture of honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- Lemon Herb Fried Chicken: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs to the cornstarch coating for a refreshing flavor.
Final Note: Elevate Your Fried Chicken Game
Mastering the art of how to fried chicken with cornstarch will transform your home-cooked meals into restaurant-quality experiences. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, this technique will satisfy your cravings for the ultimate fried chicken indulgence.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I use other starches instead of cornstarch?
A: Yes, you can use tapioca starch or potato starch as substitutes for cornstarch. However, they may not produce the same level of crispiness.
Q: How do I prevent the cornstarch coating from falling off?
A: Double-coating the chicken helps the cornstarch adhere better. Additionally, pat the chicken dry before coating to remove excess moisture.
Q: What is the best oil to use for frying chicken?
A: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are suitable options for frying chicken. They have high smoke points and produce a neutral flavor.
Q: How do I reheat fried chicken?
A: To reheat fried chicken, place it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze fried chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze fried chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the oven or air fryer.
