How To Stove Top Fry Chicken: Crispy, Juicy Perfection In Under 30 Minutes!
What To Know
- Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside – stove top fried chicken is a dish that never fails to satisfy.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- The chicken may not have been cooked at a high enough temperature, or it may have been overcrowded in the pan.
Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside – stove top fried chicken is a dish that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this guide will walk you through the process of making perfect stove top fried chicken, every time.
1. Choosing the Right Chicken:
The type of chicken you choose will greatly impact the final dish. For stove top frying, bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are ideal. They provide more flavor and moisture than boneless, skinless chicken. Popular choices include chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks, and wings.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
Before you start frying, it’s important to properly prepare the chicken. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the coating adhere better and prevent splattering.
3. Seasoning the Chicken:
Seasoning the chicken is a crucial step in achieving flavorful fried chicken. You can use a simple combination of salt and pepper, or get creative with your favorite spices and herbs. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
4. Dredging the Chicken:
Dredging the chicken helps create a crispy coating. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and seasonings of your choice. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
5. Choosing the Right Oil:
The type of oil you use for frying is also important. Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a low smoke point and can burn easily.
6. Frying the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully place the chicken pieces into the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the chicken won‘t cook evenly. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Draining and Serving:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
Tips for Perfect Stove Top Fried Chicken:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. This will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
- Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster than larger pieces.
- Serve the chicken immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or French fries.
Troubleshooting Common Problems:
- Chicken Not Crispy: The chicken may not have been cooked at a high enough temperature, or it may have been overcrowded in the pan.
- Chicken Too Dry: The chicken may have been overcooked, or it may not have been properly seasoned.
- Chicken Not Cooked Through: The chicken may not have been cooked for long enough, or the oil may not have been hot enough.
“Stove Top Fried Chicken: A Culinary Delight” – Conclusion:
Stove top fried chicken is a classic dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to indulge in this delicious culinary delight.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the best way to season stove top fried chicken?
A: There are many ways to season stove top fried chicken. Some popular options include salt and pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. You can also use your favorite herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile.
Q: What is the best oil to use for frying chicken?
A: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a low smoke point and can burn easily.
Q: How long should I fry the chicken for?
A: The cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster than larger pieces. Generally, fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
