Fried Chicken Recipe - Step by Step Guide for Crispy Chicken

Fried Chicken Recipe

Let me show you the most delicious fried chicken recipe you'll ever try! I've tried a lot of different methods over the years, and this one combines every useful tip to make crispy, juicy fried chicken. It's all about the preparation and cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Chicken: Use a full 4-pound chicken, chopped into pieces, or use your favorite parts breasts, thighs, wings, or drumsticks.

• Buttermilk: This is key for tenderizing the chicken and making sure the coating sticks.

• Flour: The crunchy crust will be made with all-purpose flour.

• Seasonings: The essential ingredients are paprika, salt, and pepper, but you can also add other spices of your choice.

• Vegetable Oil: You need oil with a high smoke point, and vegetable oil works perfectly.

What Makes This Fried Chicken So Crispy?

There are a few key things that make this fried chicken recipe work so well:

• Buttermilk and Flour Paste: The buttermilk and flour coating needs to be rested until it takes on the consistency of paste in order to have the perfect crispy outside and juicy inside.

• Temperature Control: Most recipes fry at high heat the whole time, but this one is different. You start with high heat, then lower it to cook through, and finally turn up the heat again at the end to lock in that crispy goodness.

• Paprika: This helps the chicken brown and adds a smokey taste that gives it that perfect golden color that we all love.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken

Let’s break it down into simple steps so you can easily follow along:

1. Prepare the Breading

In a big zip-top bag, mix the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Once all of the ingredients are fully combined, seal the bag and shake it. This will be the base for that crispy coating.

2. Dredge the Chicken

Transfer the buttermilk to a small bowl. Make sure the chicken is completely coated after dipping each piece into the buttermilk. Once inside the bag containing the flour mixture, place the chicken pieces. Once the chicken is properly covered, seal the bag and give it a good shake. Place the chicken on a baking pan, cover it, and bake until the coating takes on the consistency of paste. This is crucial for getting that crispy texture.

3. Fry the Chicken

Heat a large skillet (cast iron works best) and fill it about halfway with vegetable oil. Get the oil really hot before adding the chicken. Brown the chicken pieces on both sides, then reduce the heat and cover the skillet. Let the chicken cook for about 30 minutes—this ensures the chicken is cooked through without burning. After 30 minutes, remove the cover, turn the heat back up, and fry until the chicken is extra crispy.

Drain the fried chicken on paper towels, and you’re good to go!

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Ingredients List:

▶ 1 (4-pound) chicken, cut into pieces

▶ 1 cup buttermilk

▶ 2 cups all-purpose flour

▶ 1 teaspoon paprika

▶ Salt and pepper, to taste

▶ 2 quarts vegetable oil, for frying

Directions:

• Skin the chicken pieces if you prefer.

• In a large plastic bag, mix the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Dip the chicken pieces in buttermilk, then toss them in the bag with the flour mixture. Shake well to coat.

• Let the coated chicken sit until the flour becomes paste-like.

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet until very hot.

• Brown the chicken on both sides, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 30 minutes.

• Remove the cover, raise the heat, and fry until crispy.

• Drain on paper towels and enjoy!

Pro Tips:

1. Don’t skip the step where the flour coating turns into a paste—it makes a huge difference in crispiness!

2. Use a cast-iron skillet if you have one. It holds heat better and will help the chicken cook more evenly.

3. Fry the chicken in batches if you need to, and while you finish frying the remaining pieces, keep the cooked chicken warm in the oven.

For those who prefer the traditional crispy fried chicken without all the hassle, this recipe is perfect. The simple ingredients and easy steps will give you the best results every time.

FAQS

How to Reheat Fried Chicken?

Reheat Fried Chicken in Oven:

To prevent drying it out, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes. After preheating the oven to 400°F, put the chicken on a baking sheet covered with a wire rack. Bake until crispy and the internal temperature reaches 120°F, 12 to 15 minutes. This method guarantees that the chicken maintains its delightful crunch.

Reheat Fried Chicken in Microwave:

Microwaving is fast, but it often results in soggy fried chicken. Heat it for 20 to 40 seconds at a time, turning the pieces halfway through. To absorb moisture, place the chicken on a paper towel.

Reheat Fried Chicken in Stove:

Recook the chicken in oil for two to three minutes on each side for a crispier result. Although this procedure can be messy and time-consuming, make sure it reaches 165°F.

Reheat Fried Chicken in Air Fryer:

Another great option is to reheat the chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes. Don't overcrowd the tray to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Who Invented Fried Chicken?

Fried chicken was not invented by a single a person. It's been around for a lot longer than you might imagine, actually! English chef Hannah Glasse wrote the first recorded recipe for fried chicken in 1747, versions of the fried chicken have been around for thousands of years in West Africa, the Middle East, and China.

The origins of American fried chicken can be linked back to the South. The recipe's originate to Scottish immigrants who brought it to America, according to some people. It's obvious that West Africans contributed significantly to the success of American fried chicken by adding their spices to the breading, giving it a unique flavor that rapidly became a national favorite, even if we may never know exactly who invented the dish.

How to Store Leftover Fried Chicken?

If you have leftovers (which might be hard to believe), let the chicken cool before storing it. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or pop it in the oven to keep that crispy texture.