Indulge in golden goodness: unlocking the secrets of skillet-fried chicken

Craving that mouthwatering, crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside fried chicken? Look no further than this foolproof fried chicken recipe in skillet. With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can recreate the tantalizing flavors of your favorite fried chicken joint in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Buttermilk Mixture:

• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

For Frying:

• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup lard or shortening (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.

2. Prepare the Buttermilk Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce (if using).

3. Dredge the Chicken: Dip the chicken pieces into the flour mixture, coating them evenly. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip the chicken into the buttermilk mixture, making sure to coat all sides. Finally, dip the chicken back into the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and lard or shortening over medium-high heat until shimmering.

5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin side down. Fry for 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

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

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crispy and juicy fried chicken immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or sides.

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken

• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet: This will help distribute heat evenly and prevent the chicken from burning.
• Heat the oil to the correct temperature: The oil should be shimmering but not smoking.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Fry in small batches: This will help maintain the oil temperature.
• Don’t move the chicken too much: This can disrupt the breading and cause the chicken to stick to the skillet.
• Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and juicy meat.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add an extra teaspoon of cayenne pepper or use a spicier hot sauce in the buttermilk mixture.
• Herb-Infused Fried Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to the flour mixture.
• Buttermilk-Marinated Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture for several hours or overnight for extra flavor and tenderness.
• Baked Fried Chicken: For a healthier option, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes per side.

Accompaniments

• Dipping Sauces: Serve the fried chicken with classic dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
• Sides: Pair the chicken with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Finishing Touches

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or cilantro, over the fried chicken for a burst of color and flavor.
• Drizzle with Honey: Drizzle honey over the chicken for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Serve with Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges alongside the chicken for a refreshing citrus flavor.

The Bottom Line: Savor the Crispy Delight of Homemade Fried Chicken

Indulge in the crispy, juicy goodness of this fried chicken recipe in skillet. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and let the tantalizing aroma of homemade fried chicken fill your home.

FAQ

1. Can I use other types of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use other high-heat cooking oils such as canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil.

2. How do I check if the chicken is cooked through?

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

3. What can I do if my breading is falling off?

Make sure to dip the chicken in the buttermilk mixture before dredging it in flour. This helps the breading adhere better.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to fry.

5. What is the best way to reheat fried chicken?

Reheat fried chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.