To begin, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
First, take the chicken breasts and trim off any excess fat. It is essential to have evenly sized pieces for even cooking. Then, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and baking powder in a shallow dish or bowl. Mix all the dry ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring that the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Next, pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl. Take each chicken breast and dip it into the buttermilk, making sure it is fully coated. The buttermilk helps to tenderize the meat and adds a tangy flavor. After coating the chicken in buttermilk, transfer it to the bowl of seasoned flour. Toss the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating adheres well.
Once all the chicken breasts are properly coated, it’s time to heat up the oil for frying. In a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan, 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 around 350°F (175°C). To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a sprinkle of flour into the pan – if it sizzles and floats to the top, it’s ready.
Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Frying the chicken in batches allows each piece to cook evenly and prevents the temperature of the oil from dropping too much. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until it turns golden brown and crispy.
While the chicken is frying, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once a batch of chicken is done frying, transfer it to a baking sheet lined with a wire rack. This will help keep the chicken crispy, as air can circulate around it. Place the baking sheet with the chicken in the oven to ensure it is fully cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Once all the chicken has been fried and baked, it is time to serve and ! You can pair it with your favorite dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce or honey mustard, and complete the meal with some tasty sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw.
Making crispy chicken at home is not only a delicious alternative to fast food, but it also allows you to control the quality and ingredients. By following this simple recipe, you can achieve a restaurant-quality crispy chicken that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends. So, gather your cooking utensils and get ready to embark on a crispy and flavorful chicken adventure in your own kitchen!