Olivia Carter
Fried chicken is a classic and beloved dish that can be made in many different ways. One of the most delicious and simple methods is frying it in a skillet. The key to making perfect fried chicken is achieving a crispy and golden brown crust on the outside, while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful on the inside.
To start, you’ll need a skillet with a lid, as well as some vegetable oil for frying. Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Then, heat the vegetable oil in the skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of around 350°F (175°C).
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd them. It’s important to fry the chicken in batches, as overcrowding the skillet can result in uneven cooking and a soggy crust. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until the crust becomes crispy and golden brown.
When the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate or rack to drain any excess oil. To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, it’s a good idea to use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This will ensure that the chicken is safe to eat and juicy on the inside.
Now, your homemade fried chicken is ready to be served! Whether you enjoy it with some mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, or on a freshly baked biscuit, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give this classic skillet-fried chicken recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!
Preparation for Fried Chicken
Before you can start cooking your delicious fried chicken, you need to make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you will need:
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Equipment:
- A large skillet
- Tongs
- A meat thermometer
- A wire cooling rack
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to start preparing the chicken. Begin by washing the chicken pieces under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This will help remove any excess moisture and ensure that the coating sticks to the chicken.
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Pour the buttermilk into another shallow dish. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it in the flour mixture. Make sure to press the flour onto the chicken to create a thick coating.
Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire cooling rack and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This will allow the coating to set and adhere to the chicken.
In the meantime, heat a large skillet filled with about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the oil reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
Once the oil is hot enough, carefully add the chicken to the skillet using tongs. Be cautious not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can result in uneven cooking.
Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use the meat thermometer to check the chicken’s temperature.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire cooling rack to drain any excess oil.
And there you have it – perfectly fried chicken made in a skillet! Serve it hot with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Choosing the Chicken
When it comes to making fried chicken in a skillet, choosing the right chicken is essential. The type of chicken you use can make a huge difference in the taste and texture of your final dish.
1. Freshness
Always opt for fresh chicken when making fried chicken. Fresh chicken has a better flavor and will result in a juicier and more tender fried chicken. Check the expiration date and make sure the chicken is not past its prime.
2. Chicken Parts
Decide whether you want to use specific chicken parts or a whole chicken. Using specific chicken parts like thighs, drumsticks, or wings can make the cooking process more manageable and provide a consistent cooking time. On the other hand, using a whole chicken can be more economical and offers a variety of textures and flavors.
If you prefer dark meat, go for chicken thighs and drumsticks as they tend to be moist and flavorful. If you prefer white meat, opt for chicken breast or chicken tenderloins.
3. Bone-in vs. Boneless
Bone-in chicken is often recommended for making fried chicken, as it adds extra flavor and keeps the meat moist during cooking. However, boneless chicken can be a convenient option, especially if you prefer easier eating and quicker cooking times.
Ultimately, the choice between bone-in and boneless chicken depends on your personal preference and the texture you desire in your fried chicken.
Gathering the Ingredients
To make fried chicken in a skillet, you will need the following ingredients:
| Chicken Pieces | You can use any combination of chicken pieces you prefer, such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts. Make sure the chicken is fresh and skin-on for the best results. |
| Buttermilk | Buttermilk is used to soak the chicken before frying, as it helps to tenderize the meat and infuse flavor. You can find buttermilk in the dairy aisle of your local grocery store, or you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for a few minutes. |
| Seasonings | A combination of spices and herbs is used to season the chicken and add flavor. Some common seasonings for fried chicken include salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices to suit your taste. |
| Flour | All-purpose flour is used as the coating for the chicken pieces. It helps to create a crispy and golden-brown crust. You will need enough flour to coat all the chicken pieces. |
| Vegetable Oil | Vegetable oil is used for frying the chicken in the skillet. You will need enough oil to fill the skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch. You can also use other oils with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil. |
Once you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, you will be ready to start making delicious fried chicken in a skillet!
Preparing the Chicken
Before you start frying the chicken, it’s important to properly prepare it. Follow these steps to ensure a crispy and delicious fried chicken:
Gather the Ingredients
First, gather all the necessary ingredients for frying the chicken. You will need:
- Chicken pieces (such as drumsticks, thighs, or breast cutlets)
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Milk or buttermilk
- Seasonings (such as salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder)
- Vegetable oil or any other suitable frying oil
Season the Chicken
Next, season the chicken pieces with your desired seasonings. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken pieces. You can also add any other herbs or spices you prefer for extra flavor.
Coat the Chicken
Prepare a coating mixture for the chicken by combining flour with more seasoning in a shallow dish or bowl. In another bowl, beat the eggs with milk or buttermilk. Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it thoroughly with the flour mixture. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces.
If you prefer a thicker and crunchier coating, you can double-dip the chicken by repeating the dipping and coating steps. This will create a more substantial crust around the chicken. However, a single coating is usually sufficient for a crispy result.
Let the Chicken Rest
After coating the chicken, place it on a wire rack or a plate and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. Allowing the chicken to rest will help the coating adhere better and result in a crispier crust.
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Coating the Chicken
Coating the chicken is an essential step in achieving that crispy and flavorful crust. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Dredge in Flour Mixture
Start by preparing a mixture of all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. This is where you can get creative and add your favorite flavors. Some popular options include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for a little kick. Mix the ingredients well.
Take each piece of chicken and dip it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly on all sides. Press the flour into the chicken to make sure it adheres well.
2. Dip in Egg Mixture
Next, prepare an egg wash by whisking together a few eggs and a splash of milk. This will help create a binding layer and give the chicken a golden brown color.
Dip each floured chicken piece into the egg mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Allow any excess egg mixture to drip off before proceeding.
3. Reapply Flour Mixture
Once the chicken has been dipped in the egg mixture, return it to the flour mixture for a second coating. This will help create a thicker and crunchier crust.
Press the chicken firmly into the flour mixture, making sure it is completely coated. Gently shake off any excess flour and transfer the coated chicken to a plate or wire rack.
Repeat these steps for all the chicken pieces, making sure each one is thoroughly coated with the flour mixture and egg wash.
Now that the chicken is properly coated, it’s ready to be fried to perfection in a skillet. Remember to preheat the skillet and use enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces.
Cooking Fried Chicken in a Skillet
Fried chicken is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed any time of the year. While many people may think of deep frying when it comes to making this delicious dish, it can also be made in a skillet with equally impressive results. This method is perfect for those who don’t want to use a deep fryer or simply don’t have one available.
Ingredients:
Before getting started with the cooking process, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients:
| 4 chicken drumsticks |
| 4 chicken thighs |
| 1 cup all-purpose flour |
| 1 teaspoon salt |
| 1 teaspoon pepper |
| 1 teaspoon paprika |
| 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder |
| 1/2 teaspoon onion powder |
| Vegetable oil for frying |
Instructions:
- Start by rinsing the chicken pieces under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Coat each chicken piece thoroughly with the flour mixture, pressing it onto the chicken to ensure a good coating.
- In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about half an inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
- Place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces, adding more oil if necessary.
- Once all the chicken is fried, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Cooking fried chicken in a skillet is a great alternative to deep frying. The skillet method still produces a crispy crust while keeping the chicken moist and juicy on the inside. Serve your skillet-fried chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy!
FAQ
What is the best way to make fried chicken in a skillet?
The best way to make fried chicken in a skillet is to start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of buttermilk, salt, and spices for at least 2 hours. Then, dredge the chicken in a flour mixture, ensuring that each piece is fully coated. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and carefully place the chicken pieces in the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil to fry your chicken in a skillet. Some other commonly used oils for frying include canola oil, peanut oil, and sunflower oil. The important thing is to use an oil with a high smoke point, as it will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly without burning.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken before frying it?
While it is not absolutely necessary to marinate the chicken before frying it, marinating can greatly enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. The acidic components in the marinade, such as buttermilk or lemon juice, help to break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product. Additionally, marinating allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the marinade, adding an extra dimension of taste to the fried chicken.
