Broasted chicken is a mouthwatering dish loved for its crispy golden crust and juicy, tender meat inside. If you’ve ever wondered how to broast chicken at home and enjoy that perfect balance of crunch and flavor, you’re in the right place! This article will walk you through the process step-by-step, from marinating to frying, so you can create restaurant-quality broasted chicken right in your kitchen.
What Is Broasted Chicken?
Broasting is a unique cooking technique that combines pressure cooking and deep frying. Invented in the 1950s by L.A.M. Phelan, this method uses a special pressure fryer to cook chicken quickly and evenly, locking in moisture while creating a crispy exterior. Unlike traditional frying, broasting cooks chicken in a closed environment, which prevents it from becoming greasy and helps retain juiciness.
Since most home cooks don’t have a commercial broaster, you can mimic the process using a heavy skillet or Dutch oven with a lid, frying the chicken with a covered and uncovered method to get that signature broasted texture.
Ingredients for Homemade Broasted Chicken
To make broasted chicken at home, you’ll need:
– Chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, wings)
– Buttermilk (for marinating)
– Hot sauce (optional, for marinade)
– Salt and pepper
– Flour and cornstarch (for coating)
– Seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, turmeric
– Cooking oil with a high smoke point (peanut, vegetable, or canola oil)
Step-by-Step Guide to Broasting Chicken at Home
1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor and Tenderness
Start by soaking your chicken pieces in a marinade of buttermilk, salt, and optional hot sauce. This tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the Seasoned Coating
Mix flour, cornstarch, and your favorite spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour mixture will give your chicken that irresistible crispy crust.
3. Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well. For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken by repeating the flour coating step.
4. Heat the Oil
Pour enough oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet, Dutch oven, or deep fryer to submerge the chicken pieces (about 2-3 inches deep). Heat the oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for even cooking.
5. Fry the Chicken – The Broasting Technique
Add the coated chicken pieces gently into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
– Cover the skillet or pot for the first half of the cooking time (about 8-10 minutes). This traps steam and pressure, helping the chicken cook through and stay juicy.
– Remove the lid for the remaining time (another 5-7 minutes) to crisp up the coating and achieve that golden-brown finish.
Cook until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This usually takes about 15 minutes total, depending on the size of the pieces.
6. Drain and Rest
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Tips for Perfect Broasted Chicken at Home
– Use buttermilk for marinating: It tenderizes the chicken and adds tangy flavor.
– Maintain oil temperature: Keeping the oil steady between 350-375°F ensures crispy, non-greasy chicken.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in batches prevents temperature drops and uneven cooking.
– Double coating: For extra crunch, coat the chicken twice in the flour mixture.
– Use a meat thermometer: To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.
Serving Suggestions
Broasted chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, mashed potatoes, fries, or a fresh garden salad. For a spicy kick, serve with a dipping sauce made from hot sauce, melted butter, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Broasting chicken at home is easier than you think and results in a delicious meal that’s crispy on the outside and juicy inside. With simple ingredients and a bit of technique, you can enjoy this culinary delight anytime.
Enjoy your homemade broasted chicken feast!