The ultimate fried chicken recipe: egg whites for a golden, crispy crust!

Indulge in the tantalizing world of fried chicken, where crispy perfection meets the fluffy embrace of egg whites. This exceptional recipe elevates the classic dish to new heights, delivering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or embarking on your first fried chicken adventure, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create mouthwatering masterpieces.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Egg White Wash:

• 3 egg whites
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Cut the chicken into 8-10 pieces.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2. Make the Egg White Wash:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, water, and cornstarch until foamy.

3. Create the Coating:

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Dip and Coat the Chicken:

• Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade and dip them into the egg white wash.
• Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Shake off any excess flour.

5. Fry the Chicken:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Drain and Serve:

• Remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels.
• Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or gravy.

Tips for Achieving Crispy Perfection

• Use cold egg whites for the wash, as this helps create a crispier crust.
• Don’t overmix the coating. Overmixing can result in a tough crust.
• Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper to the coating mixture.
• Herbed Fried Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of dried thyme or oregano to the coating mixture.
• Lemon-Pepper Fried Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of black pepper to the coating mixture.

What to Serve with Fried Chicken

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to crispy fried chicken.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a tangy crunch to the meal.
• Gravy: A rich gravy enhances the flavors of the chicken and potatoes.
• Cornbread: Soft and buttery cornbread complements the savory chicken.
• Green Beans: Sautéed or roasted green beans provide a healthy and flavorful side dish.

The Science Behind the Egg White Wash

Egg whites contain proteins that coagulate when heated, creating a thin, crispy layer around the chicken. This layer acts as a barrier, preventing the chicken from absorbing too much oil and resulting in a more crispy texture.

Wrapping Up

With this exceptional fried chicken recipe egg white, you can now create mouthwatering masterpieces that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will empower you to achieve crispy perfection every time. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
A: Yes, you can use regular milk, but buttermilk will tenderize the chicken more effectively.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken in the buttermilk?
A: You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours, but 4-8 hours is sufficient.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 30-45 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: What type of oil is best for frying chicken?
A: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all suitable for frying chicken.

Q: How can I make sure the chicken is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).