Broasted chicken is a deliciously crispy fried chicken with a juicy inside that many people crave. Unlike regular fried chicken, broasted chicken is cooked using a special pressure-frying method that locks in moisture while creating a perfectly crunchy crust. If you’ve ever wondered how to make this restaurant favorite at home, this guide will walk you through the process with easy-to-follow steps and tips.
What Is Broasted Chicken?
Broasted chicken is a cooking method invented in the 1950s by L.A.M. Phelan, who combined pressure cooking with deep frying. The chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture, then cooked in a pressure cooker or a specialized broaster machine. This method cooks the chicken faster, keeps it juicy inside, and produces a golden, crispy crust on the outside without excess oiliness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Chicken pieces (with skin and bone on for best results)
– Buttermilk (for marinating)
– Salt and pepper
– Vinegar or hot sauce (optional for marinade)
– All-purpose flour
– Cornstarch
– Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and other preferred spices
– Eggs (for coating)
– Cooking oil (peanut oil or vegetable oil works well)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Broasted Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken pieces in buttermilk mixed with salt and optionally some vinegar or hot sauce. This tenderizes the meat and infuses flavor. Let the chicken soak for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.
2. Prepare the Flour Coating
In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour with cornstarch and your choice of seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and herbs like parsley or oregano. This blend creates the signature crispy coating.
3. Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Dip each piece first in the flour mixture, then in a beaten egg wash (egg mixed with salt and water), and then coat again with the flour mixture for a double layer of crunch. Let the coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to help the coating adhere.
4. Heat the Oil
Heat cooking oil in a pressure cooker or a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet to about 350-375°F (175-190°C). The oil should be deep enough to submerge the chicken pieces.
5. Pressure Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. If using a pressure cooker, cover it and cook for 1-2 whistles (about 8-10 minutes). This pressure cooking step locks in moisture and cooks the chicken evenly.
If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you can mimic the effect by covering the skillet with a lid during the first half of frying to trap steam, then uncovering to crisp the coating.
6. Crisp the Chicken
After pressure cooking, remove the lid and fry the chicken for a few more minutes until the outer layer is extra crispy and golden brown. This final frying step ensures that perfect crunch.
7. Drain and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on 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
– Use chicken with skin and bones for juicier meat and better flavor.
– Don’t overcrowd the cooker or skillet; fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
– For extra flavor, add garlic powder, herbs, or chili powder to the flour mixture.
– Resting the coated chicken before frying helps the crust stick better.
– If you like a thicker crust, double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour, but traditionally one coating is enough.
Serving Suggestions
Broasted chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad. For an extra kick, serve with a spicy garlic dipping sauce made from hot sauce, melted butter, and garlic powder.
Broasted chicken combines the best of frying and pressure cooking to deliver a juicy, crispy delight that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With a flavorful marinade, seasoned coating, and the right cooking technique, you can enjoy this restaurant favorite any time.
Enjoy your homemade broasted chicken with your favorite sides and watch it become a family favorite!