Lazy-day fried chicken: 3 ingredients for ultimate crispy goodness

Craving crispy, juicy fried chicken but short on time and ingredients? We’ve got you covered with this incredibly easy fried chicken recipe that requires only three simple ingredients: chicken, flour, and salt.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

2. Season the flour: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.

3. Dredge the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the flour mixture and toss to coat evenly.

4. Heat the oil: Heat a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry the chicken: Place the floured chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Drain and serve: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

• For extra crispy chicken, double-dredge the chicken by coating it in flour, then dipping it in water, and finally coating it in flour again.
• For a more flavorful coating, add herbs and spices to the flour mixture, such as paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder.
• If you don’t have a deep fryer, you can shallow fry the chicken in a skillet with about 1/2 inch of oil.
• Serve the fried chicken with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.

Benefits of Using Only 3 Ingredients

• Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginners.
• Time-saving: With only three ingredients, you can whip up this fried chicken in no time.
• Cost-effective: The ingredients are all affordable and readily available.
• Versatile: This recipe can be used to make chicken nuggets, tenders, or strips.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
• Lemon-Herb Fried Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to the flour mixture for a bright and herbaceous flavor.
• Buttermilk Fried Chicken: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours before frying for extra tenderness and juiciness.

The Science Behind the Recipe

The key to crispy fried chicken lies in the flour coating. When the chicken is coated in flour and fried, the flour absorbs moisture from the chicken and forms a crispy crust. The salt helps to draw out moisture from the chicken, which also contributes to the crispiness.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Perfect Fried Chicken Experience

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this fried chicken recipe with only 3 ingredients is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and versatility, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and prepare to enjoy the ultimate fried chicken experience!

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) when done.

Q: What are some other dipping sauces I can serve with the fried chicken?
A: Try dipping the chicken in honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Q: Can I freeze the fried chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How do I reheat the fried chicken?
A: Reheat the fried chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.