Very Tender Chicken & Chops Recipe
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Recipe Yield: Serves 5
Description:
Discover the secret to incredibly tender chicken or pork chops with this cherished family recipe passed down through generations. Perfectly crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish is a labor of love that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/8 cup beer (optional)
- 2 chicken breasts or pork chops
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups finely crushed crackers (for coating)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Meat:
- Clean the chicken breasts or pork chops thoroughly.
- If using beer, pour it into a bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Rub off any excess fat and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season with salt and pepper and set aside at room temperature.
-
Prepare the Coating:
- In a food processor, crush the crackers until they are finely ground.
- Pour the crushed crackers onto a shallow baking pan, spreading them evenly.
-
Coat the Meat:
- Place 3 cups of flour into a 1-gallon plastic bag (or use a paper bag).
- In a separate bowl, mix the eggs and milk together to create an egg wash.
- Coat each piece of chicken or pork first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured meat into the egg wash, ensuring there are no pockets of flour left uncovered.
- Dredge the coated meat in the crushed cracker crumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.
-
Chill the Meat:
- Place the coated meat pieces on a plate and freeze for 30 minutes, turning them over after 15 minutes.
-
Cooking:
- Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the coated chicken breasts for approximately 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Fry the pork chops for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
-
Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Place the fried chicken or pork chops on a shallow baking pan with a drain rack in the middle of the oven.
- Bake for 30 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through. If using boneless chicken, reduce the bake time by 10 minutes.
-
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy your incredibly tender and flavorful chicken or pork chops!
This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience steeped in tradition and flavor. Treat your loved ones to this delightful dish and savor the homemade goodness that comes with every bite. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special gatherings, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
