Fried chicken. Just the words conjure images of juicy, succulent meat encased in a shatteringly crisp, golden-brown crust. Achieving that perfect bite requires a little know-how, and this guide will walk you through the process of frying chicken with flour and egg, ensuring your results are consistently delicious.
What You'll Need:
Before we begin, gather your ingredients and equipment. You'll need:
- Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts – your preference!) work best. About 2 pounds is a good starting quantity.
- All-purpose flour: Approximately 2 cups.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs.
- Milk or buttermilk: ¼ cup. Buttermilk adds extra tenderness.
- Spices: Salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder – experiment with your favorites! A good starting point is 1 tablespoon of salt and pepper, and ½ tablespoon each of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Vegetable oil: Enough for deep frying. Peanut oil and canola oil are popular choices for their high smoke points.
- Large bowl: For the egg wash.
- Shallow dish: For the flour mixture.
- Large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer: For deep frying.
- Tongs or slotted spoon: For turning and removing the chicken.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil.
Preparing the Chicken:
Proper preparation is key to crispy, juicy fried chicken.
- Pat it dry: Thoroughly pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Season generously: Season the chicken liberally with your chosen spices. Make sure to season all sides evenly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to several hours in the refrigerator) to allow the flavors to penetrate. This step is crucial for flavorful, juicy chicken.
The Dredging Process: Flour, Egg, and More Flour!
This three-step process is what creates that amazing, crispy crust.
- The Egg Wash: Whisk the eggs and milk (or buttermilk) together in a large bowl until well combined.
- The Flour Coating: Place the seasoned flour in a shallow dish.
- Dredge the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres well. Repeat the egg wash and flour dredging process for extra crispy results.
Deep Frying the Chicken:
- Heat the Oil: Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate. Too low, and your chicken will be greasy; too high, and it will burn before it's cooked through.
- Fry in Batches: Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Cook Time: Fry for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How Long Should I Fry Chicken?
The cooking time depends on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster than larger ones. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) – this guarantees it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
Can I Use Other Types of Flour?
While all-purpose flour is the most common choice, you can experiment with other types of flour, such as self-rising flour or even a blend of flours. However, keep in mind that different flours will result in slightly different textures.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken:
- Double dredge: Dredging the chicken twice (egg wash, flour, egg wash, flour) results in a thicker, crispier crust.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial for crispiness.
- Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to redistribute.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating perfectly crispy, juicy fried chicken that will impress your family and friends. Remember, practice makes perfect! Enjoy!
