There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of frying chicken wafting through the kitchen. It evokes memories of family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the sizzling sound of crispy skin bubbling in hot oil. This isn’t just any fried chicken; it’s my favorite fried chicken recipe that’s become a staple in our home.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up a batch that rivals any restaurant. With just a few pantry staples, including a blend of flavorful seasonings and a touch of love, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The golden crust delivers a satisfying crunch, giving way to juicy, tender meat that sings with flavor.
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or need an impressive dish for a potluck, this fried chicken fits the bill. Get ready to reclaim mealtime from fast food — your taste buds deserve this delicious home-cooked experience!
Why is Favorite Fried Chicken a must-try?
Simplicity: This recipe uses common ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, making it accessible for everyone.
Savory Seasonings: A delightful blend of garlic salt, paprika, and poultry seasoning infuses each bite with mouthwatering flavor.
Perfectly Crispy: Achieve an irresistible crunch on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender, providing a satisfying contrast.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for gatherings, this dish will have friends and family clamoring for more—perfect for potlucks or family dinners.
Time-Efficient: Once you master the frying technique, you can whip this up quickly, freeing up time for more fun in the kitchen.
Transform your mealtime habits and banish fast food with this unforgettable fried chicken recipe!
Favorite Fried Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to dive into a flavor-filled experience with these essential ingredients!
For the Coating
- All-purpose flour – Divided into two portions, it’s the secret to achieving that perfect crispy crust.
- Garlic salt – Adds a savory depth, ensuring every bite is seasoned to perfection.
- Paprika – A little bit of spice and vibrant color, making your chicken as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Pepper – Use to taste; it brings a gentle kick to each juicy piece.
- Poultry seasoning – This key ingredient infuses a rich flavor that defines your favorite fried chicken.
For the Egg Wash
- Large eggs – These act as the binding agent, helping the flour coating cling to the chicken.
- Water – Helps thin the egg mixture for easy dipping without overly coating the chicken.
For the Chicken
- Broiler/fryer chickens – Look for chickens weighing 3-1/2 to 4 pounds each for the juiciest, most flavorful results.
For Frying
- Oil for deep-fat frying – Choose a high smoke point oil for the crispiest finish and to ensure safe frying.
Now that you have everything you need for a delightful cooking adventure, it’s time to create your favorite fried chicken masterpiece!
How to Make Favorite Fried Chicken
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Mix the Coating: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, garlic salt, paprika, 2 teaspoons of pepper, and poultry seasoning. Stir until harmonious, creating a balanced blend of flavors.
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Whisk the Egg Wash: In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1-1/2 cups of water. This mixture should be smooth and well combined, perfect for helping the flour stick to the chicken.
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Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the flour mix, pressing lightly to adhere the coating evenly.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to use enough oil to allow the chicken to fry evenly without overcrowding.
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Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they are ready when they float and the skin is beautifully crispy.
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Drain and Serve: Using tongs, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving—this will enhance the crispy texture!
Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Favorite Fried Chicken?
To complete your meal and make it truly unforgettable, consider these delightful pairings.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture creates a comforting contrast to crispy chicken, soaking up any flavorful juices.
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Coleslaw: Crisp, refreshing, and tangy, coleslaw offers a delightful crunch that balances the richness of fried chicken perfectly.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn adds a burst of freshness; its slight sweetness beautifully complements the savory notes of the chicken.
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Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits provide a delightful vehicle for any remaining drippings or honey, enhancing the entire meal experience.
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Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy, cheesy dish embraces the comfort food theme, providing a satisfying side with a rich flavor contrast.
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Pickles: Their tangy crunch cuts through the fried chicken’s richness, adding a zesty kick that elevates each bite.
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Sweet Tea: A classic Southern beverage, its sweetness balances the savory notes of fried chicken, making every sip refreshing.
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Apple Pie: For dessert, a warm slice of homemade apple pie brings a sweet finish to your meal, evoking nostalgic memories of family gatherings.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your favorite fried chicken in advance is an absolute time-saver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken pieces in the egg mixture (2 large eggs and 1-1/2 cups of water) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This not only infuses flavor but also ensures extra juiciness during frying. Additionally, you can combine the dry coating ingredients (2 cups of flour, garlic salt, paprika, 2 teaspoons pepper, and poultry seasoning) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, coat the marinated chicken in the prepared flour mix, fry them in batches, and enjoy perfectly crispy fried chicken that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Favorite Fried Chicken
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Preparation is Key: Ensure the chicken is thoroughly dry before coating to help the flour stick better, avoiding soggy breading.
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Perfect Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F (175°C). If it’s too hot, the exterior will burn before the inside cooks through.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking; overcrowding can lead to uneven frying.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest on paper towels for a few minutes after frying. This prevents sogginess and keeps the crust crispy for your favorite fried chicken.
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Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasoning mixture according to your taste; adding a pinch of cayenne can give your chicken a delightful kick!
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Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat in the oven to retain that crispy texture.
Variations & Substitutions for Favorite Fried Chicken
Feel free to play around with these variations to make this fried chicken truly yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a similar crunch without the gluten.
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for an extra layer of heat that adds excitement to each bite.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the flour mix to introduce a fragrant twist that brightens the chicken’s flavor profile.
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Buttermilk Soak: Replace water with buttermilk in the egg mixture for an extra tender and flavorful chicken, thanks to the acidity of the buttermilk.
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Crispy Panko Coating: Swap half of the flour for panko breadcrumbs to achieve an even crunchier texture on your fried chicken; it’s like a party for your taste buds.
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Oven-Baked Option: For a healthier take, coat the chicken as instructed, then bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25-30 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
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Seasoned Oil: Infuse your frying oil with additional flavors by adding a few cloves of garlic or herbs while heating to create a savory base that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
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Sweet and Savory: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup over your freshly fried chicken for a delightful contrast that will surprise and please your palate.
Mix and match these ideas to create your ultimate favorite fried chicken that feels as comforting as a warm hug!
How to Store and Freeze Favorite Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To regain that crispy texture, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Room Temperature: It’s best to consume favorite fried chicken shortly after cooking. If left out, don’t leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Favorite Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for frying?
Absolutely! When choosing your chickens, look for broiler or fryer chickens weighing between 3-1/2 to 4 pounds. These younger birds are perfect for frying because they have tender meat and a good ratio of meat to skin, which is key for that luscious crunch. Always ensure the chickens are fresh, with no dark spots on the skin, indicating spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover fried chicken?
After savoring your delicious favorite fried chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it away. This helps maintain its flavor and prevents moisture buildup.
Can I freeze favorite fried chicken, and how?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap each piece of chicken tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, don’t forget to reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes for that crispy crust!
What do I do if my fried chicken turns out soggy?
If your fried chicken ends up soft instead of crispy, it could be due to a few reasons. First, make sure the oil temperature is consistent at 350°F (175°C). Fry in small batches, as overcrowding can drop the oil temperature. If you notice sogginess after frying, place the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels—this allows air to circulate and keeps the crust crispier.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for friends with dietary restrictions, you can adjust the recipe to meet their needs. Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option, keeping flavor intact. For lactose-intolerant individuals, ensure that the cooking oil is dairy-free. Always check for allergies, particularly related to seasonings like garlic and pepper, and feel free to customize the spice levels!
Crispy and Juicy Favorite Fried Chicken You'll Crave Daily
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, garlic salt, paprika, 2 teaspoons of pepper, and poultry seasoning. Stir until harmonious, creating a balanced blend of flavors.
- In another bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1-1/2 cups of water until smooth and well combined.
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dredge it in the flour mix, pressing lightly to adhere the coating evenly.
- In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to allow the chicken to fry evenly.
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Fry for 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Using tongs, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.