Elevate your fried chicken game: the power of cornstarch for ultimate crunch

Indulge in the irresistible crunch and savory flavors of homemade fried chicken with this exceptional recipe that utilizes cornstarch as a secret weapon. Cornstarch adds an unparalleled crispiness to the chicken, creating a tantalizing contrast to the juicy, tender meat within. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8-10 pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This will help it cook evenly.

2. Create the Seasoned Flour Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until well blended.

3. Dip in Buttermilk: Place the chicken pieces in a separate bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure the chicken is completely submerged. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

4. Coat with Seasoned Flour: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and shake off any excess. Dip each piece into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.

5. Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet or deep fryer to submerge the chicken. Heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

7. Drain and Season: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken:

• Double Dip: For an extra crispy coating, double dip the chicken in the buttermilk and seasoned flour mixture.
• Use Cold Buttermilk: Cold buttermilk helps to create a crispier crust.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Sides: Pair your fried chicken with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or macaroni and cheese.
• Spicy Sauce: Serve with a spicy dipping sauce, such as buffalo sauce or sriracha, for an extra kick.
• Sandwiches: Create mouthwatering fried chicken sandwiches by adding your favorite toppings to toasted buns.

Why Cornstarch?

Cornstarch plays a crucial role in this fried chicken recipe by:

• Creating a Crisp Crust: Cornstarch has a high starch content, which gelatinizes when heated, forming a crispy exterior.
• Absorbing Moisture: Cornstarch absorbs excess moisture from the chicken, preventing it from becoming soggy.
• Adding a Light Texture: The cornstarch coating adds a light and airy texture to the chicken, enhancing its overall appeal.

Variations:

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour mixture for a spicy twist.
• Herbed Fried Chicken: Incorporate your favorite herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, into the flour mixture for a flavorful variation.
• Gluten-Free Fried Chicken: Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

Beyond Fried Chicken:

Cornstarch can be used in various other culinary applications, including:

• Thickening Sauces: Cornstarch is a versatile thickener for sauces, gravies, and soups.
• Creating Pastries: Cornstarch is used in the production of flaky pastries, such as pie crusts and puff pastry.
• Baking: Cornstarch can be added to baking recipes to create a more tender and moist crumb.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use cornstarch without buttermilk?
A: Yes, you can substitute plain yogurt or sour cream for buttermilk.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. If it reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit, the chicken is safe to consume.

Q: What is the best way to store fried chicken?
A: Store fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.

Q: Can I freeze fried chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze fried chicken for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw before reheating.

Q: What are some healthy alternatives to frying chicken?
A: You can bake or air fry chicken instead of deep frying it. These methods reduce the amount of fat and calories in the dish.