Deep frying chicken is a delicious way to get that irresistible crispy outside and juicy inside. Whether you’re craving classic Southern fried chicken or just want to impress your family with a homemade crispy meal, learning how to deep fry chicken properly is a skill worth mastering. Let’s walk through the process step-by-step in a simple, friendly way.
What You’ll Need
– Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, or breast) or a whole chicken cut into parts
– All-purpose flour
– Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, or your favorite spices)
– Buttermilk or eggs for dipping
– Vegetable oil (peanut oil or canola oil works great due to their high smoke points)
– Deep fryer or a large, heavy pot for frying
– Cooking thermometer
– Wire rack or paper towels for draining
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by washing your chicken pieces under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Dry chicken helps the coating stick better and prevents oil splatters. If you want extra juicy chicken, you can soak the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours or overnight-this tenderizes the meat and adds flavor.
Next, season your chicken well with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. This step ensures your chicken is flavorful all the way through, not just on the outside.
Step 2: Make Your Coating Station
Set up three shallow dishes:
- Flour mixture: Combine all-purpose flour with your chosen seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne for a bit of heat. Mix well.
- Wet dip: Use buttermilk or beaten eggs.
- Optional extra crunch: Bread crumbs or panko can be used for an even crispier crust.
Coat each chicken piece first in the flour, then dip it into the wet mixture, and finally coat it again in the flour or breadcrumbs. For an extra thick crust, repeat the wet and dry coating steps once more.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour enough oil into your deep fryer or pot so the chicken pieces can be fully submerged. Heat the oil to about 325°F to 350°F (163°C to 175°C). Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature carefully. If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken cooks through. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy chicken. Fry the chicken for about 12 to 20 minutes depending on the size of the pieces. Smaller pieces like wings may take closer to 12 minutes, while larger thighs or breasts can take up to 20 minutes.
Turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when it’s golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F to 165°F (71°C to 74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Step 5: Drain and Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken with a slotted spoon or tongs and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on paper towels. This drains excess oil and keeps the crust crispy. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Deep-Fried Chicken
– Keep the oil temperature steady: Adding chicken lowers the oil temperature, so adjust the heat to maintain that 325°F-350°F range.
– Use clean oil: Old or dirty oil can give your chicken a burnt or off taste.
– Don’t rush: Patience is key. Frying at the right temperature and for the right amount of time ensures juicy chicken inside and crispy outside.
– Safety first: Be careful when working with hot oil. Use long tongs and avoid water near the fryer to prevent splatters.
Bonus: Deep Frying a Whole Chicken
If you want to deep fry a whole chicken, you’ll need a large pot and enough oil to fully submerge the bird. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), and slowly lower the chicken neck-end first into the oil. Cook for about 3 to 3.5 minutes per pound. For a 3-pound chicken, that’s roughly 10 to 11 minutes. Always monitor the temperature and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Deep frying chicken is a rewarding cooking adventure that results in a crispy, flavorful meal everyone will love. With the right preparation, seasoning, and attention to oil temperature, you can enjoy restaurant-quality fried chicken right at home. Happy frying!