Fried chicken is a delicious and iconic dish that has been enjoyed all over the world for decades. Its crunchy, flavorful coating and juicy meat inside make it a popular dish in many households and restaurants. But achieving the perfectly crispy fried chicken is not always easy. There are a few secrets to making the best fried chicken, and in this article, we’ll share those with you.
1. Start with the right chicken: To make great fried chicken, you need to start with the right kind of chicken. Choose fresh, high-quality chicken meat with skin on. Chicken thighs and drumsticks are perfect for frying because they are more flavorful, juicy and tender compared to chicken breast.
2. Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken is an essential step to making great fried chicken. A good marinade not only adds flavor to the chicken, but it also helps to tenderize the meat. You can use buttermilk, yogurt, or even beer to marinate your chicken. Adding spices and herbs like salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme enhances the flavor.
3. Double-dip the chicken: The key to getting a crispy coating on fried chicken is to double dip it in the batter. First, coat the chicken in flour to help the batter stick, then dip it in an egg and milk mixture before dunking it back into the flour again. This technique ensures a crunchy and well-coated chicken that doesn’t fall off during frying.
4. Use the right oil: Choosing the right oil for frying is crucial for achieving a crispy fried chicken. You want an oil that has a high smoke point, meaning it can get hot without burning. Peanut oil or vegetable oil are good choices for frying chicken because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavor.
5. Fry at the right temperature: For perfectly crispy fried chicken, you need to fry it at the right temperature. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb the oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will cook too quickly and the inside will remain raw. Optimal frying temperature for chicken is between 350-375°F. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at a constant temperature during frying.
6. Drain the chicken: Once the chicken is done frying, it’s essential to drain it well. Use a wire rack over a tray to let the excess oil drip off. Don’t let the chicken sit on paper towels for too long since it can make the coating soggy.
In conclusion, making the perfect crispy fried chicken isn’t hard as long as you follow these essential tips. Starting with fresh, high-quality chicken, marinate it, double dip in the batter, use the right oil with a high smoke point, fry at the right temperature, and drain the chicken once it’s done- also be careful to not over-fry the chicken. With a little bit of practice and patience, you’ll be able to enjoy the tastiest, crispy fried chicken in the comfort of your own home.
