Few dishes evoke the same universally beloved response as Extra Crispy Fried Chicken. With its golden-brown exterior and succulent interior, this classic recipe brings a touch of comfort to any dining table. In this culinary journey, we’ll explore the art of crafting the perfect Extra Crispy Fried Chicken, from the selection of ingredients to the step-by-step frying process.
Ingredients:
To embark on this crispy adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 pounds chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups canola or peanut oil
Directions:
- Prepping the Chicken:
- Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures a clean canvas for the flavors to adhere.
- Egg and Milk Bath:
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Submerge the chicken pieces in this flavorful bath, allowing them to soak for 5 to 10 minutes. This not only imparts a rich taste but also helps the coating adhere.
- Flour Coating:
- In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine the all-purpose flour with seasoned salt (if using). Take the chicken pieces, a few at a time, and shake them in the flour mixture until they are completely coated. Shake off any excess flour, ensuring a light and even coating on each piece.
- Drying on a Rack:
- Set the coated chicken aside on a rack to air dry. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted extra crispiness. Allowing excess moisture to evaporate ensures that the coating adheres better and fries up to a delightful crunch.
- Heating the Oil:
- Pour the canola or peanut oil into a deep skillet or deep fryer, heating it to 350 degrees F. The right temperature is key to achieving crispy perfection without greasiness.
- Frying the Chicken:
- Carefully add chicken thighs and legs to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for several minutes, turning once, until the chicken pieces achieve a golden-brown hue and are cooked through. Add other chicken pieces in batches, maintaining the oil temperature for consistent results.
- Draining and Serving:
- Once each piece reaches its golden glory, drain the Extra Crispy Fried Chicken on paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil, leaving you with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Serve the chicken warm or at room temperature for an indulgent dining experience.
Conclusion:
Extra Crispy Fried Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors. From the initial preparation of the chicken to the final golden fry, each step contributes to the symphony of tastes that make this dish a timeless favorite. Whether served as a delightful family meal or the centerpiece of a gathering, this Extra Crispy Fried Chicken recipe promises to elevate any dining experience with its crispy perfection and mouthwatering juiciness. Enjoy every bite of this classic comfort food!