Fried chicken is a universally beloved dish, cherished for its golden, crispy crust and juicy, flavorful meat. Originating in the Southern United States, this iconic dish has spread worldwide, with each region adding its unique twist. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Southern style, the spicy Korean variety, or the aromatic Pakistani version, fried chicken never fails to satisfy. In this article, we’ll explore how to make restaurant-style fried chicken at home, perfecting that flaky crust and juicy interior.
What’s the Difference Between Deep-Fried Chicken and Fried Chicken?
Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to understand the differences between deep-fried chicken and fried chicken. While both methods result in deliciously crispy chicken, the techniques and outcomes can vary:
- Deep-Fried Chicken: This method involves submerging the chicken entirely in hot oil. It ensures an even, crispy crust as the chicken cooks uniformly. Deep-frying often results in a thicker crust.
- Fried Chicken: Typically, this refers to pan-fried chicken, where pieces are partially submerged in oil. This method uses less oil and requires turning the chicken to ensure even cooking. It usually results in a lighter, crispier crust.
Now that we understand the methods let’s delve into making restaurant-style fried chicken.
Ingredients
To make perfect restaurant-style fried chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Marinade:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- For the Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- For Frying:
- 2 pounds chicken pieces (legs, thighs, and wings recommended)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.
- Remove and Coat: Take the chicken pieces out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure an even coating. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it sit for 15 minutes to set the crust.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be about 1 inch deep.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, skin side down, without overcrowding the pan. Fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Rest: Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Tips and Variations
- Achieving the Flaky Crust: To get that perfect flaky crust on fried chicken, ensure the coating mixture includes cornstarch. This helps create a light, crisp texture.
- Restaurant Style Fried Chicken Pakistani: Add a teaspoon of ground cumin and coriander to the coating mixture for a Pakistani twist, and serve with mint chutney.
- KFC Style Fried Chicken: For a KFC-style flavor, incorporate a pinch of MSG and a mix of dried herbs like basil and marjoram into the flour mixture.
- How to Fry Chicken in a Pan with Oil: Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and a better crust. Keep the oil temperature consistent to prevent greasy chicken.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming six servings):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
Restaurant-style fried chicken is a delightful treat that you can easily prepare at home. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant. Experiment with different spices and herbs to create your signature fried chicken dish.
We’d love to hear your experiences and any variations you try. Leave a comment below, share this recipe on social media, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes from easycrispyrecipes.com. Happy frying