What’s the best way to keep fried chicken breading from falling off?

To prevent the breading from falling off, let the coated chicken rest for 10 to 15 minutes before frying. This rest period helps the egg wash and flour mixture set firmly on the chicken. Also, make sure to dredge the chicken in flour or cornstarch mixture twice if needed for extra adhesion. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the coating to loosen during cooking.

Can I use milk instead of buttermilk for soaking fried chicken?

While you can substitute milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice, authentic buttermilk is preferred for soaking fried chicken. Buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds a tangy flavor that milk alone doesn’t provide. An overnight soak in buttermilk also helps maximize juiciness and flavor in the cooked chicken.

What type of oil is best for frying chicken?

Peanut oil is commonly recommended because of its high smoke point and neutral flavor, which won’t interfere with the chicken’s taste. Canola oil is a suitable alternative if peanut oil isn’t available. Avoid oils with low smoke points as they can burn and produce off-flavors during frying.

How do I avoid soggy fried chicken?

Soggy fried chicken usually results from oil that isn’t hot enough (ideally 350-375°F) or overcrowding the frying pan. Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature, and once cooked, drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil and retain crispiness.

Can I reuse oil after frying chicken, and how should I store it?

Yes, you can reuse frying oil a few times. After frying, allow the oil to cool completely, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove food particles. Store the strained oil in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dark place. Use it again within a few frying sessions to maintain quality and safety.

Fried Chicken: Easy Southern Recipe with Video Guide

Name: Fried Chicken
Prep time: 8 h 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 8 h 35 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: – 2 1/2 pounds chicken pieces (like drumsticks and thighs); – 2 cups all-purpose flour creates a crunchy coating that seals in juices and enhances texture; – 1 tablespoon paprika adds smoky depth and vibrant color; – 2 teaspoons garlic powder infuses aromatic notes with health benefits like antibacterial properties; – 1 teaspoon onion powder provides savory undertones; – 1 teaspoon salt balances seasoning; – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper offers a mild kick; – 1 cup buttermilk tenders the chicken and helps the breading stick; – 2 eggs acts as a binder for the coating; – 1 cup vegetable oil for frying facilitates even cooking and browning

Description

🍗 Fried Chicken: Best Southern Recipe with Video Guide brings classic Southern flavors with a crispy, juicy finish that’s perfect for any occasion.
🔥 The combination of traditional seasoning, buttermilk marinade, and an egg mixture creates an irresistible golden crust and tender meat.

Ingredients

– 2 1/2 pounds chicken pieces (like drumsticks and thighs)

– 2 cups all-purpose flour creates a crunchy coating that seals in juices and enhances texture

– 1 tablespoon paprika adds smoky depth and vibrant color

– 2 teaspoons garlic powder infuses aromatic notes with health benefits like antibacterial properties

– 1 teaspoon onion powder provides savory undertones

– 1 teaspoon salt balances seasoning

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper offers a mild kick

– 1 cup buttermilk tenders the chicken and helps the breading stick

– 2 eggs acts as a binder for the coating

– 1 cup vegetable oil for frying facilitates even cooking and browning

Instructions

First Step: Prepare the Ingredients Start with mise en place by seasoning 2 1/2 pounds chicken pieces with salt and herbs, then mix 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in one bowl, and whisk 2 eggs with 1 cup buttermilk in another this takes about 5 minutes. For vegan adaptations, prepare a flax egg mixture to replace traditional eggs in the batter.

Second Step: Coat the Chicken Dip each chicken piece into the egg-buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off, then dredge in the seasoned flour mix, pressing to coat evenly, which should take 5-10 minutes. This step builds the crunchy exterior; for gluten-free versions, ensure your flour substitute is used here for the same effect.

Third Step: Heat the Oil Heat 1 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F, about 5 minutes, for optimal frying. Use a thermometer for accuracy; if opting for a low-calorie approach, preheat the oven to 400°F as an alternative to traditional frying.

Fourth Step: Fry the Chicken Place chicken in the hot oil, cooking in batches for 10-12 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature hits 165°F. Flip halfway for even cooking; adapt by air-frying for vegan or low-fat preferences to achieve crispiness with less oil.

Final Step: Drain and Serve Remove chicken from oil and drain on a wire rack for 5 minutes to crisp further, then season lightly if needed. Serve hot with sides, incorporating dietary tweaks like plant-based accompaniments for a customizable fried chicken experience.

Notes

🍗 Use real buttermilk for best tenderness and flavor; avoid substitutes.
🥣 Adding cornstarch to flour mixture enhances crispiness.
🥚 Egg mixture improves coating adhesion but is optional.
🔥 Monitor oil temperature at 325-350°F for even cooking.
⏳ Let coated chicken rest before frying to prevent breading loss.
🥄 Avoid overcrowding pan for better crispiness and safer frying.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate: 8 hours
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 727
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1598mg
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 23g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 61g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 43g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: fried chicken,southern fried chicken,classic fried chicken,crispy fried chicken