Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Have you ever bitten into a piece of fried chicken and wished the crunch could be heard from space? Well, buckle up, because today we’re diving into the magic of cornstarch and how it transforms your fried chicken into a crispy, golden masterpiece.
Why This Recipe Works
- Cornstarch is the MVP: It creates a lighter, crispier coating than flour alone, giving your chicken that irresistible crunch.
- Double-dipping for the win: Coating the chicken twice ensures every nook and cranny is covered, leading to uniform crispiness.
- Perfectly seasoned: A blend of spices not only flavors the chicken but also adds depth to the crust.
- Frying at the right temperature: Keeping the oil at a steady 350°F means your chicken cooks evenly without absorbing too much oil.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken pieces (your choice of cuts)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Equipment Needed
- Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Thermometer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Instructions
1. Prep Your Chicken
Start by ensuring your chicken pieces are dry; pat them down with paper towels. This step is crucial because moisture is the enemy of crispiness. In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. This mixture will help the coating stick to the chicken and add tenderness.
2. Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. The cornstarch is your secret weapon here, ensuring that golden, crispy exterior we’re all after. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
3. Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the wet mixture, then dredge in the dry ingredients. For extra crunch, double-dip: go back into the wet mixture and then the dry again. This might seem like overkill, but trust me, it’s worth it for that crunch.
4. Heat the Oil
Pour enough oil into your pot to submerge the chicken pieces and heat to 350°F. Maintaining this temperature is key; too hot, and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too cool, and your chicken will be greasy.
5. Fry to Perfection
Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, not overcrowding the pot. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Tips and Tricks
Letting your coated chicken sit for about 10 minutes before frying can help the coating adhere better, reducing the chance of it falling off in the oil. If you’re worried about the chicken cooking through, you can finish it in a 350°F oven after frying to ensure it’s done without over-browning the crust. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dry mix for a spicy kick.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the wet mixture for those who like it hot.
- Herb-Infused: Mix dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the dry ingredients for an aromatic twist.
- Sweet and Spicy: After frying, toss the chicken in a mix of honey and chili flakes for a sticky, sweet, and spicy coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake this instead of frying?
While frying gives the best crunch, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes. The crust won’t be as crispy, but it’ll still be delicious. Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back some of the crispiness; microwaving will make it soggy.
Can I use this coating for other meats?
Absolutely! This cornstarch coating works great for fish, shrimp, or even tofu. Adjust cooking times based on what you’re frying to ensure everything comes out perfectly cooked.
Summary
This cornstarch fried chicken recipe is your ticket to achieving that dreamy, crispy crust with a juicy interior. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can master the art of frying chicken that’s bound to impress.
