Fried chicken is a beloved dish across the globe. When coated with crunchy breadcrumbs, it achieves the perfect balance of crisp exterior and juicy meat. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to making mouthwatering fried chicken with breadcrumbs. From preparation tips to coating techniques, you’ll learn everything needed to fry up chicken that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Why Bread Crumbs Create the Best Fried Chicken
Using breadcrumbs to coat fried chicken offers many advantages
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Crisp Texture: Breadcrumbs create an irresistibly crunchy crust that stays crispy. Flour coats can become soggy.
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Toasty Flavor: When fried, breadcrumbs develop a toasted, savory taste that enhances the chicken.
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Customizable Seasonings can be mixed into the breadcrumbs for more flavor
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Light and Crumbly: Unlike heavy batters, breadcrumbs give a light, delicate coating.
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Retains Moisture: The chicken doesn’t dry out as the breadcrumbs seal in natural juices.
Choosing the Right Breadcrumbs
You can use fresh breadcrumbs or store-bought. Panko breadcrumbs yield an extra crispy crust. For seasoned breadcrumbs, try garlic, oregano, thyme, or cayenne pepper. Make sure they completely coat the chicken.
Preparing the Chicken
Start with 1 1⁄2 pounds of chicken pieces – breasts, thighs or drumsticks work great. Pat the chicken dry so the coating adheres better. If desired, marinate for added moisture and flavor.
Mastering the Coating Process
Follow these steps for perfect breadcrumb adhesion:
- Flour: Season flour with salt, pepper, spices. Dredge chicken to lightly coat.
- Egg wash: Beat eggs with water or milk. Dip floured chicken in egg mixture.
- Breadcrumbs: Press chicken into breadcrumbs until fully covered.
Pro tips: Use one hand for dry ingredients, the other for wet to prevent clumping. Let chicken rest 5-10 minutes before frying so coating sticks.
Choosing the Best Frying Method
You can pan-fry or deep-fry with equal success:
- Pan-frying: Use 1⁄2 inch oil in a heavy skillet. Cook over medium-high heat.
- Deep-frying: Use 2-3 inches oil in a deep pot or Fry Daddy. Heat oil to 350°F.
No matter which you choose, fry chicken in batches. Overcrowding lowers oil temp and makes chicken greasy.
Fry Until Beautifully Golden
Fry chicken for 8-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown. The coating should be crispy, not soggy. Chicken is done when internal temp reaches 165°F.
Draining and Serving for Best Results
Once fried, let chicken drain on a wire rack or paper towels. This removes excess grease for optimal crispiness. Serve immediately while hot and crunchy.
Frying Tips for Crispy Perfection
Follow these tips for the crispiest, crunchiest fried chicken:
- Maintain steady oil temp between 325-350°F.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil and chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer.
- Let chicken rest after breading.
- Blot off excess buttermilk before breading.
- Use day-old breadcrumbs; they fry up crisper.
- Mix in cornstarch or baking powder for extra crispiness.
Cooking Without Frying
For a healthier, oven-baked version:
- Coat chicken as directed with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs
- Arrange on a greased baking sheet
- Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until cooked through
- For crispiness, broil 2-3 minutes at end
Serving Suggestions
Breaded fried chicken pairs deliciously with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Biscuits
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Corn on the cob
Offer condiments like honey mustard, ranch or barbecue sauce for dipping. A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors.
Storing and Reheating
To keep leftover fried chicken crispy:
- Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes
- Microwave for 30 second intervals, changing position
Avoid refrigerating hot chicken; the steam makes the coating soggy.
From preparation to frying to serving, following these steps will yield the crispiest, crunchiest fried chicken coated in flavorful breadcrumbs. Adjust the recipe to your tastes by using different breadings or seasonings. Master this classic dish to become the star of potlucks and family dinners alike. Now get cooking and enjoy!
So, What’s the Best Way to Bread Chicken?
Marinate your chicken in lemon juice and crushed garlic for maximum flavor and the most tender meat.
For the biggest (and most consistent) crunch, dredge in flour, then dip in egg, then coat in crumbs. If you’re into a battered cutlet but don’t want to commit all the way, combine the flour and egg, then coat in crumbs.
When it comes to breading, it’s tough to go wrong. If you’re a big fan of the flavor of any specific cracker or chip (like Ritz or Saltine or Cheez-Its), use those. For a classic, extra-crunchy boy, use panko or panko-Parm. For something nuttier, try fresh bread crumbs made from whole wheat or multigrain. What should Ella test in a future column? Share requests in the comments!
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Crispy Breaded Chicken Recipe
FAQ
How to make fried chicken in breadcrumbs?
First, the raw chicken is lightly coated in flour, which absorbs excess moisture and helps the next layer adhere. Second, the chicken is dipped in beaten egg. And third, the cutlet is coated in fresh breadcrumbs, which cling evenly to both sides thanks to the coating of egg.
Can I use breadcrumbs instead of flour for fried chicken?
How to use breadcrumbs for frying?
If frying, fill a heavy-bottomed sauté pan with enough oil so the food you’re frying is half-covered. Heat the oil until a few breadcrumbs sizzle when tossed in. Fry for a minute or two, until golden brown on the bottom, and then flip. (If your pan is small, fry in batches rather than overcrowd the pan.)
How do you make fried chicken with bread crumbs?
Crack the eggs in a bowl and whisk with a fork. Put the bread crumbs on a large plate. Heat the oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Dip each chicken breast in eggs first on both sides, then dip in breadcrumbs on both sides, pressing into the bread crumbs so they stick better.
What are the ingredients for crispy fried chicken with bread crumbs?
The essential ingredients for crispy fried chicken with bread crumbs include chicken pieces (such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts), all-purpose flour, eggs, and bread crumbs. You can use either plain or seasoned bread crumbs depending on your flavor preference.
Can you use bread crumbs for fried chicken?
For this recipe, we will use bread crumbs as our primary coating. Bread crumbs add an irresistible crunch to fried chicken. You can use store-bought bread crumbs or make your own from stale bread. The method of frying plays a significant role in achieving that sought-after crispy texture.
How do you make a fried chicken sandwich?
It also uses just 4 simple common ingredients – chicken breasts, dried bread crumbs, eggs and oil! Doesn’t get any simpler and easier than that! Super easy! Just heat the oil on a frying pan, dip the chicken in egg, then dip the chicken in bread crumbs, then pan fry for about 4 minutes on each side and your amazing breaded chicken is ready!
How do you make fried chicken taste good?
Buttermilk: This acidic ingredient helps to tenderize the chicken. Spices: Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper add depth of flavor. For this recipe, we will use bread crumbs as our primary coating. Bread crumbs add an irresistible crunch to fried chicken. You can use store-bought bread crumbs or make your own from stale bread.
How do you make fried chicken crispy?
The following steps will help ensure that your fried chicken is perfectly crispy and delicious. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well to combine. Add the Chicken: Submerge the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring that all parts are well-coated.