Easy Fried Chicken
Why Make This Recipe
Easy Fried Chicken is a beloved dish that brings comfort to any meal. This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a tasty homemade meal. With its crispy crust and juicy meat, this fried chicken is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a fun weekend treat. Plus, the process of brining the chicken ensures that it stays moist and flavorful.
How to Make Easy Fried Chicken
Ingredients:
- 3 lb drumsticks or thighs
- 4 cups whole milk (can substitute with water)
- 1/4 cup salt
- 8 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp black peppercorns
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 cups flour (Gluten-Free Flour recommended)
- 2 cups cornstarch
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tbsp white pepper
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1/2 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 cup seasoning mix
- 1 cup cold water
Directions:
- Carefully pierce the chicken with a knife. In a bowl, mix the milk (or water), salt, garlic, black peppercorns, and bay leaves. Brine the chicken in this mixture for 2-3 hours or overnight for best results.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, white pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and baking powder. Whisk until well combined.
- Take 1 cup of your seasoning mix and mix it with the cold water in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Remove the chicken from the brine and take a few tablespoons of the brine to mix with your seasoning mix. Use your hands to create small clumps.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the wet batter, letting any excess drip off. Then, dredge the chicken in the seasoning mix, pressing it in until fully coated.
- Let the coated chicken rest on a baking sheet while you heat the oil.
- In a large cast iron pan, Dutch oven, or heavy-bottomed pan/wok, heat the oil to 350°F. Fry the chicken for 8-12 minutes, depending on the size, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How to Serve Easy Fried Chicken
Serve your Easy Fried Chicken hot from the fryer. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits for a fulfilling meal. A drizzle of honey or hot sauce can also add an extra kick!
How to Store Easy Fried Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the fried chicken cool down to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which will help restore some of the crispiness.
Tips to Make Easy Fried Chicken
- For an even crispier coating, let the chicken sit for a few minutes after breading before frying.
- Make sure the oil is at the right temperature for frying. A thermometer can help with this.
- Experiment with different seasoning mixes to find your favorite flavor combination.
Variation
You can spice things up by adding different spices to the seasoning mix, such as smoked paprika or herbs like thyme and oregano. If you prefer a spicy kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add your favorite hot sauce to the brine.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster. Keep an eye on the internal temperature.
2. Is it necessary to brine the chicken?
Brining helps keep the chicken moist and flavorful, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and still have tasty fried chicken.
3. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use various flours, including gluten-free flour. Just be sure to adjust the amounts if needed for texture.
