Crispy Country Fried Chicken Recipe
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours (including refrigeration)
Servings: 8
Calories: 297.1 per serving
Description
This recipe for crispy country fried chicken comes from my grandmother’s kitchen, and it has been a family favorite for generations. The result is a wonderfully crispy and juicy fried chicken that’s sure to be the star of your dinner table. Perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection, this recipe will help you recreate the same comforting, mouthwatering fried chicken we’ve enjoyed for years. It’s important to follow the steps exactly to ensure you get that ideal crunch and juiciness. The cooking time includes time spent refrigerating the chicken, so be sure to plan accordingly for the best results.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fryer chicken (cut into parts) | 1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces) |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 3 large |
| Milk | 1/3 cup |
| Paprika | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Self-rising flour | 1 cup |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Additional salt for seasoning | 1/2 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 297.1 kcal |
| Fat Content | 12.7 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 3.7 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 146.5 mg |
| Sodium Content | 1118.3 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 18.3 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.8 g |
| Sugar Content | 0.2 g |
| Protein Content | 25.5 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken
Begin by mixing 2 teaspoons of salt with 2 cups of water in a medium-sized bowl. Stir until the salt has dissolved completely. Place the chicken parts into the saltwater mixture and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This brining process helps enhance the flavor and moisture of the chicken. -
Drain the Chicken
After the chicken has soaked for 15 minutes, remove it from the water and drain it well. Set aside while you prepare the breading mixture. -
Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of self-rising flour with 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of paprika. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. -
Prepare the Egg Wash
In a second shallow dish, crack 3 eggs and whisk them together with 1/3 cup of milk. The egg wash will help the flour mixture adhere to the chicken. -
Dredge the Chicken
Take each chicken piece and dredge it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Then, dip the coated chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s completely submerged. Afterward, return the chicken to the flour mixture, coating it once more for an extra crispy crust. Repeat this process for all chicken pieces. -
Chill the Chicken
Place the coated chicken pieces onto a baking sheet and refrigerate them for 1 to 2 hours. This resting period helps the breading set, which ensures a crispier texture when fried. -
Heat the Oil
Pour oil into an electric skillet or deep-frying pan, filling it to about a 1/2-inch depth. Heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). It’s crucial that the oil reaches the correct temperature for frying, so a thermometer is highly recommended. -
Fry the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, begin frying the chicken in batches. Fry each piece for about 10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even frying. -
Cook Through
After the chicken is golden brown, reduce the heat to 250°F (120°C) and cover the skillet. Let the chicken cook for an additional 25 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when done. -
Drain and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep the chicken warm by placing it in a low oven while you finish frying the remaining pieces. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness!
Tips for the Perfect Fried Chicken
- Brining: Don’t skip the brining step! The saltwater soak helps to tenderize the chicken and adds flavor deep into the meat, keeping it juicy and flavorful.
- Resting Time: The resting time in the refrigerator before frying allows the breading to set, which contributes to an extra crispy crust.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature (375°F for frying and 250°F for finishing) ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves the perfect crispness.
- Avoid Crowding the Pan: Frying the chicken in batches allows the oil to stay hot, giving the chicken a crispy exterior while cooking evenly inside.
Final Thoughts
This crispy country fried chicken recipe is a true classic that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The double breading technique, along with the brining step, creates a crunchy, flavorful coating that contrasts perfectly with the tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply craving some homemade comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it has been in mine for generations.
Enjoy every bite of this crispy, juicy fried chicken, and don’t forget to share the love with your family and friends!
