How to Make the Best Crispy Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a beloved dish that has been enjoyed all over the world for many years due to its crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat.
If you want to make the best fried chicken, it is important to choose the right chicken cut, prepare it with brine, create a flavorful breading, and fry it at the correct temperature.
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| How to Make the Best Crispy Fried Chicken |
To make the best crispy fried chicken, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Ingredients:
- 8 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 6 cups water
- 1/2 cup salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Canola or vegetable oil for frying
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
- Hot honey or tangy sauce for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl or container, combine the water, salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
- Add the chicken to the brine and make sure it is completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the cornstarch to the flour mixture and stir until well combined.
- Place the buttermilk in a separate bowl.
- Remove the chicken from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it is completely coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the chicken in the buttermilk, making sure it is completely coated.
- Dip the chicken back into the flour mixture, making sure it is completely coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F to 375°F.
- Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, or until it is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Use tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Sprinkle the fried chicken with flaky sea salt (optional) and drizzle with hot honey or tangy sauce (optional).
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade crispy fried chicken!
In summary, making the best crispy fried chicken requires the right ingredients, breading, and frying techniques.
By following these steps, you can achieve the perfect crispy exterior and juicy interior.
It may take some practice to perfect your technique, but with patience and persistence, you can create a mouth-watering fried chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant.
So, go ahead and start frying!