Can You Use Bread Crumbs for Fried Chicken? Experts Weigh In!

The question of whether or not you can use bread crumbs for fried chicken is a common one, especially for those seeking a crispy, golden-brown exterior. While the classic Southern recipe calls for flour, the answer is a resounding yes! Bread crumbs can be a fantastic alternative that delivers a unique texture and flavor profile.

The Benefits of Bread Crumbs

Bread crumbs offer several advantages when it comes to frying chicken:

• Crispy Texture: Bread crumbs create a wonderfully crunchy exterior that holds its shape even after the chicken is cooked. This is due to their larger size and irregular shape, which allows for more surface area to crisp up.
• Flavor Enhancement: Bread crumbs can add a subtle savory note to the chicken, especially if they’re seasoned with herbs or spices.
• Easy to Work With: Bread crumbs are generally easier to handle than flour, making them ideal for coating chicken pieces. They tend to stick better and create a more even coating.

When to Use Bread Crumbs

While bread crumbs can be used for any type of fried chicken, they are particularly well-suited for:

• Chicken Tenders: The smaller size of chicken tenders allows for the bread crumbs to coat them more evenly, resulting in a perfectly crisp and bite-sized treat.
• Chicken Cutlets: Similar to chicken tenders, cutlets benefit from the added crunch and texture that bread crumbs provide.
• Chicken Wings: Bread crumbs create a delightful crunch that complements the juicy meat of chicken wings.

Choosing the Right Bread Crumbs

Not all bread crumbs are created equal. When choosing bread crumbs for your fried chicken, consider the following factors:

• Type: You can use plain or seasoned bread crumbs. Plain bread crumbs allow for more control over the seasoning, while seasoned bread crumbs offer convenience and a hint of flavor.
• Texture: Fine bread crumbs create a smoother coating, while coarse bread crumbs offer a more robust crunch. The choice depends on your personal preference.
• Freshness: Use fresh bread crumbs for the best results. Stale bread crumbs tend to be crumbly and may not adhere well to the chicken.

How to Prepare Bread Crumbs for Fried Chicken

Here’s a simple guide to preparing bread crumbs for frying chicken:

1. Start with Fresh Bread: Choose a good quality, white bread for the best results. You can use sandwich bread, French bread, or even stale bread.
2. Remove the Crusts: Trim the crusts off the bread and discard them.
3. Cube the Bread: Cut the bread into small cubes.
4. Pulse in a Food Processor: Place the bread cubes in a food processor and pulse until they are finely ground.
5. Season to Taste: Add your favorite seasonings to the bread crumbs. This could include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other herbs and spices you enjoy.
6. Let Them Dry: Spread the bread crumbs on a baking sheet and allow them to dry in a low oven for 10-15 minutes. This will help them crisp up when you fry them.

The Ultimate Bread Crumb Fried Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season the Flour: Combine the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken in the buttermilk, then dredge in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Prepare the Bread Crumbs: Place the bread crumbs in another shallow dish.
5. Coat the Chicken in Bread Crumbs: Press each piece of chicken into the bread crumbs, making sure they are fully coated.
6. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
7. Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately.

Beyond Bread Crumbs: Other Coating Options

While bread crumbs are a fantastic choice for fried chicken, there are other coating options you can experiment with:

• Panko Bread Crumbs: These Japanese bread crumbs are known for their airy texture and crispiness, creating a lighter and crunchier coating.
• Crushed Potato Chips: For a unique twist, try coating your chicken in crushed potato chips. The salty flavor and crunchy texture add a delicious dimension to the dish.
• Cornmeal: Cornmeal creates a slightly grainy and flavorful coating that is perfect for a Southern-style fried chicken.

The Final Word: Bread Crumbs for Crispy Perfection

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, using bread crumbs for fried chicken can be a game-changer. They deliver a crispy, flavorful, and satisfying experience that is sure to please everyone at the table. So, the next time you’re craving fried chicken, give bread crumbs a try. You might just discover your new favorite way to fry chicken!

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use store-bought bread crumbs?

A: Absolutely! Store-bought bread crumbs are a convenient option, and you can find them in a variety of flavors and textures.

Q: How do I prevent the bread crumbs from falling off the chicken?

A: Make sure the chicken is completely coated in buttermilk and flour before dipping it in the bread crumbs. Pressing the chicken firmly into the bread crumbs can also help them adhere better.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

A: Yes, you can bake the chicken coated in bread crumbs. However, it won’t be as crispy as fried chicken.