Get The Secret Recipe: How To Make Jollibee-style Fried Chicken At Home

Filipino cuisine has captivated taste buds around the globe, and one of its most beloved dishes is the crispy and flavorful fried chicken from the renowned fast-food chain, Jollibee. If you’re eager to recreate this culinary masterpiece at home, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the secrets to achieve that irresistible Jollibee-style fried chicken.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

For the Marinade:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the marinade and cover them completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Make the Breadcrumbs: In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
4. Remove Chicken from Marinade: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
5. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture and coat it evenly. Shake off any excess crumbs.
6. Heat the Oil: Heat a large pot or deep fryer filled with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
7. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Crispy Perfection:

• Double-Coat the Chicken: Dip the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture twice for an extra crispy crust.
• Use Cold Oil: Start frying the chicken in cold oil and gradually increase the heat to maintain a constant temperature.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the fried chicken rest on paper towels for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations:

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Honey Garlic Fried Chicken: Brush the fried chicken with a mixture of honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Cheesy Fried Chicken: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken before frying for a melted, cheesy center.

Dipping Sauce Options:

• Gravy: Make a simple gravy by whisking together chicken broth, cornstarch, and soy sauce.
• Honey Mustard: Combine equal parts honey and Dijon mustard for a tangy dipping sauce.
• Sweet and Sour Sauce: Mix ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and soy sauce for a classic Filipino favorite.

The Science Behind the Crispy Crust:

The crispy crust of Jollibee-style fried chicken is achieved through a combination of factors:

• The Marinade: The soy sauce and lemon juice in the marinade help tenderize the chicken while the honey adds a subtle sweetness.
• The Breadcrumbs: The flour and cornstarch create a barrier that prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil.
• The Double Coating: Dipping the chicken twice in the breadcrumb mixture ensures an even and thick crust.
• The Hot Oil: Frying the chicken in hot oil seals the crust quickly, resulting in a crispy exterior.

FAQ:

• Can I use boneless chicken breasts? Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts, but they will cook faster, so adjust the frying time accordingly.
• How long can I marinate the chicken? You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours, but 4 hours is sufficient for good flavor.
• What is the best way to store the fried chicken? Store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I freeze the fried chicken? Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
• What is the secret ingredient in Jollibee’s fried chicken? Jollibee’s fried chicken recipe is a closely guarded secret, but it is rumored to include a blend of herbs and spices.