What To Know
- Using Special K cereal as a coating, this recipe creates a unique and delicious twist on the classic Southern dish.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Store leftover special K fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Craving crispy, juicy fried chicken that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than this special K fried chicken recipe. Using Special K cereal as a coating, this recipe creates a unique and delicious twist on the classic Southern dish. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this easy-to-follow recipe that yields tender chicken with a crispy, crunchy exterior.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Special K cereal, crushed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, combine the crushed Special K cereal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a uniform coating mixture.
2. Set Up the Dipping Stations:
- In one shallow dish, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- In another shallow dish, place the prepared coating mixture.
3. Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Transfer the chicken to the coating mixture and press gently to adhere the coating evenly.
4. Preheat the Oil:
- Heat a large pot or deep fryer filled with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the special K fried chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad.
- Enjoy the crispy, crunchy texture and mouthwatering flavor of this unique fried chicken recipe.
Tips for Perfect Special K Fried Chicken:
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best results.
- Crush the Special K cereal into fine crumbs for a more even coating.
- Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying the chicken to prevent undercooking or overcooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot or deep fryer when frying the chicken. Fry in batches if necessary to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
- Adjust the seasonings according to your personal preference. You can add more or less paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to suit your taste.
Variations:
- For a spicier version, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the coating mixture.
- For a more savory flavor, add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the coating mixture.
- Instead of buttermilk, you can use regular milk or yogurt for the dipping station.
- Try using different types of cereal for the coating, such as Corn Flakes or Rice Krispies, for a different texture and flavor.
Healthier Options:
- To make a healthier version of this recipe, use air fryer instead of deep frying. Air frying reduces the amount of oil used and results in a healthier, crispy chicken.
- Use whole-wheat Special K cereal for a more nutritious coating.
- Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs to reduce the fat content.
Storing and Reheating:
- Store leftover special K fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Final Note:
Embark on a culinary adventure with this special K fried chicken recipe. Its unique coating creates a crispy, crunchy exterior that complements the tender, juicy chicken perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors with this exceptional fried chicken dish.
Common Questions and Answers
- Can I use chicken with the bone in?
Yes, you can use chicken with the bone in for this recipe. However, adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through.
- What sides go well with special K fried chicken?
Classic sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and a fresh garden salad pair perfectly with special K fried chicken. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, macaroni and cheese, or your favorite dipping sauces.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the coated chicken pieces ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. When ready to cook, bring the chicken to room temperature before frying as directed in the recipe.
- How do I ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, and it should read 165°F (74°C) when cooked through.
- What other cereals can I use for the coating?
You can use various cereals for the coating, such as Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, or Panko breadcrumbs. Experiment with different cereals to find your favorite flavor and texture combination.
