cindyd’s somewhat southern fried chicken
Are you ready to make the juiciest, crispiest southern fried chicken you’ve ever tasted? I’ll share my secrets for achieving that perfect golden crust that crunches when you bite into it! Stick around, becuase I promise this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds, and maybe even thirds!
Simple Ingredients for Tasty Southern Fried Chicken
Ready to whip up some delicious southern fried chicken? Let’s gather the ingredients that’ll make your dish a true standout! This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, so you won’t need anything too fancy. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken leg quarters (cut into thighs and drumsticks)
- 2 large eggs (for that nice, rich coating)
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (the base for our crunchy crust)
- 1 tablespoon rubbed sage (adds an earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to enhance all the flavors)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (for a little kick)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (for sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- Vegetable oil (approximately 2 cups, for frying; you can adjust as needed)
Having these key ingredients on hand will set you up for a accomplished frying experience. The blend of spices creates a mouthwatering aroma that’s sure to make your kitchen feel welcoming.Trust me, the crispy skin and juicy meat will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this classic recipe promises comfort and satisfaction. now, let’s get to the fun part—cooking!
Step-by-step Instructions for Perfect Fried Chicken
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring them together! Follow these steps closely to make sure your southern fried chicken turns out perfectly.
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by rinsing your chicken leg quarters under cold water. pat them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure a crispy crust later on.
- Beat the Eggs: In a shallow bowl, whisk the 2 large eggs until thay’re fully beaten. This egg wash will help the flour stick to the chicken.
- Mix the Flour and Spices: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, rubbed sage, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Sifting helps eliminate lumps and ensures even seasoning.
- Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet until it’s about 2 inches deep.Heat the oil over medium-high heat. To check if it’s ready, drop a small bit of flour in; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Then, dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure it’s well-coated. Press the flour onto the chicken to form a thick crust.
- Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the skillet. Fry them on the first side for about 10 minutes until golden brown. Flip them over and reduce the heat to medium. Let them fry for another 20 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the thickest part of a thigh; it should read 165°F (73.9°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy a perfectly crispy and delicious southern fried chicken that everyone will love. It’s all about the technique and patience, so take your time and savor the process!
Serving and Storage Tips for Crispy Southern Fried chicken
After you’ve made this mouthwatering southern fried chicken,serving it right can enhance the experience. This dish is perfect for sharing—whether at a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with sides: I love serving my fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob. You might also try it with biscuits for a true southern feast.
- Dipping sauces: Elevate your meal with a few dipping sauces. A tangy honey mustard or a creamy ranch dressing works wonderfully, adding a delightful contrast to the crunchy chicken.
Storage Tips:
If you find yourself with leftovers (which I hope you do!), storing them correctly is key to keeping that crispy texture and rich flavor intact:
- Refrigeration: Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing it up.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled fried chicken. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer bag. Properly stored, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating:
The best way to reheat fried chicken is in the oven.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps restore that crispy coating without making it soggy.With these serving and storage suggestions, you can enjoy your delicious fried chicken now and later, keeping that tasty crunch alive!
Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for perfect Fried Chicken
Making fried chicken is a delightful process, but sometimes things might not go as planned. Here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips that I’ve found useful along the way.
Key Notes:
- Choosing the right chicken: Opt for skin-on, bone-in chicken pieces for the best flavor and texture. The skin helps lock in moisture, keeping the meat juicy.
- Temperature matters: Always let your oil reach the desired temperature before adding the chicken. If the oil isn’t hot enough, your chicken might absorb too much oil and become greasy. Ideally, aim for 350°F (175°C) when frying.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- Why is my chicken soggy? If your chicken turns out soggy,it might be due to overcrowding the pan or not heating the oil to the right temperature. Cook in batches to give each piece enough space.
- Too much browning? If your chicken is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Cooking it too fast can result in burnt skin while leaving the inside undercooked.
- flavor adjustments: If you find the flavor isn’t quite what you expected, consider experimenting with the seasoning. adding more spices like paprika or cayenne can give you that extra kick.
With these notes and troubleshooting tips, you’ll be set up for success in making your southern fried chicken not just good, but great! Enjoy the cooking adventure, and feel free to make it uniquely yours!