Get your finger-lickin’ fix: foolproof fried chicken recipe in a skillet

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of perfectly fried chicken with our hassle-free skillet recipe. This easy-to-follow guide will transform your kitchen into a culinary haven, leaving you with mouthwatering, golden-brown chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Gathering Your Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Seasoning the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk to blend thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat it evenly with the seasoned flour mixture.

Heating the Skillet

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.

Frying the Chicken

Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces in the hot oil. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer.

Ensuring Crispiness

To achieve maximum crispiness, double-fry the chicken. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes. Reheat the oil to medium-high heat and fry the chicken again for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s sizzling and extra crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your skillet fried chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a tangy dipping sauce. You can also garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for Success

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a tender and juicy result.
• Season the chicken generously to enhance its flavor.
• Double-frying the chicken ensures extra crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour mixture for a fiery kick.
• Herb-Infused Fried Chicken: Incorporate your favorite herbs, such as thyme or oregano, into the seasoned flour mixture.
• Buttermilk Brined Chicken: Soak the chicken in buttermilk for several hours or overnight before frying for extra tenderness.

Wrapping Up: Savor the Crispy Goodness

With our easy skillet fried chicken recipe, you can effortlessly create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. The crispy exterior and juicy interior will tantalize your taste buds, leaving you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and prepare to savor the crispy goodness of perfectly fried chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use different cuts of chicken?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking it?
A: Use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F.

Q: Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can fry the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.