Fried chicken is a timeless comfort food beloved around the world. Its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and rich flavor make it a favorite for gatherings, family dinners, and cozy nights in. While there are many methods to achieve the perfect fried chicken, using bread crumbs can take your dish to a whole new level. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making delicious fried chicken with bread crumbs, from choosing the right ingredients to mastering the cooking technique.
Why Use Bread Crumbs for Fried Chicken?
Using bread crumbs instead of traditional flour for frying chicken can offer several advantages:
- Texture: Bread crumbs provide a unique crunch, adding satisfying texture to your fried chicken.
- Flavor: Depending on the type of bread crumbs used, they can introduce additional flavors to your chicken. For instance, seasoned bread crumbs bring herbs and spices to the mix, enhancing the overall taste.
Ingredients for Perfect Bread Crumb Fried Chicken
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken pieces: Drumsticks, thighs, wings, or breasts – choose your favorites.
- Seasoned bread crumbs: You can either buy pre-seasoned bread crumbs or make your own by adding herbs and spices to plain bread crumbs.
- Buttermilk: This helps to tenderize the chicken and provides flavor.
- Eggs: For egg wash, they create a sticky base for the bread crumbs to adhere to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning your chicken.
- Oil: A neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola, for frying.
Preparation Steps
Preparing your chicken properly is crucial to ensure it turns out flavorful and succulent. Follow these steps to get your chicken ready for frying:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Marinating is an important step to infuse flavor. For this fried chicken recipe, we will use buttermilk.
- Mix the Buttermilk: In a large bowl, pour in enough buttermilk to submerge your chicken pieces completely.
- Season the Buttermilk: Add a pinch of salt and pepper. You can also include garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor.
- Submerge the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces into the buttermilk, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Crumbs
While your chicken is marinating, you can prepare the seasoned bread crumbs.
- Choose Your Bread Crumbs: If you’re making your own, simply take slices of stale bread and pulse them in a food processor until fine. Alternatively, purchase pre-seasoned bread crumbs from the store.
- Add Extra Flavor: To enhance the flavor of plain bread crumbs, mix in your preferred seasonings, such as paprika, dried oregano, thyme, or pepper.
Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
To coat your chicken properly, set up a breading station. You will need three shallow dishes:
- Flour Mixture: In the first dish, mix 1 cup flour with salt and pepper.
- Egg Wash: In the second dish, beat 2 eggs with a splash of water or milk.
- Bread Crumbs: Finally, pour your seasoned bread crumbs into the third dish.
Coating the Chicken
Once your chicken is marinated and the breading station is ready, it’s time to coat the chicken.
Step 1: Dredging in Flour
Remove one piece of chicken from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Then dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is well coated.
Step 2: Egg Wash
Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, covering it thoroughly. This step is crucial as it helps the bread crumbs stick to the chicken, ensuring a beautiful coating.
Step 3: Coating with Bread Crumbs
Now it’s time to coat the chicken with the bread crumbs. Place the egg-coated chicken piece into the bowl of seasoned bread crumbs and press gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. Repeat this process with all your chicken pieces.
Frying the Chicken
With your chicken beautifully coated and ready to go, let’s move on to frying.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or dutch oven, pour in enough oil to cover about 1 to 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can check the temperature by using a kitchen thermometer or dropping a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Step 2: Frying the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan, which can drop the oil temperature and create soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in batches, cooking for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning.
Step 3: Drain the Chicken
Once the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place the fried chicken on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making fried chicken with bread crumbs, it’s time to enjoy your culinary creation! Here are some serving suggestions:
Classic Sides
Fried chicken pairs wonderfully with sides such as:
- Coleslaw: The crunchy texture complements the crispy chicken.
- Biscuits: Soft, buttery biscuits make a perfect accompaniment.
Dip and Sauce Ideas
For added flavor, serve your fried chicken with various dips and sauces like:
- Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy combination that enhances the chicken.
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a little kick, drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken.
Tips for Success
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your fried chicken turns out perfectly every time:
Choose the Right Oil
Using an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, is essential for achieving that crispy exterior without burning.
Monitor Temperature
Keep an eye on the oil temperature throughout the frying process—too hot will burn the crust while too low will lead to greasy chicken.
Rest Before Serving
Let your fried chicken rest for a few minutes after frying. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it even more tender and juicy.
Final Thoughts
Making fried chicken with bread crumbs is a rewarding cooking experience that results in a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight meal, this fried chicken recipe will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some homemade fried chicken that you can be proud of!
In conclusion, with the right preparation, ingredients, and techniques, you can create a mouthwatering fried chicken dish that will be a highlight at your table. The next time you crave this classic dish, remember these tips and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy bread crumbs and juicy chicken!
What type of bread crumbs should I use for frying chicken?
For frying chicken, it’s best to use seasoned bread crumbs for added flavor. These can enhance the taste of the chicken without needing to add excessive spices. You can purchase these pre-made or make your own by toasting slices of bread and processing them in a food processor. Another option is to use panko breadcrumbs, which are coarser and provide an extra crunch when fried.
If you prefer a traditional route, you can opt for plain bread crumbs, but consider adding some herbs and spices for depth. The choice of bread crumb type can significantly affect the final texture and flavor of the chicken, so feel free to experiment with different options to find what you enjoy most.
How do I prepare the chicken before coating it in bread crumbs?
Before coating the chicken in bread crumbs, it is crucial to properly prepare it to ensure maximum flavor and texture. Start by brining the chicken in a mixture of water and salt for at least 30 minutes to help it retain moisture during cooking. This step also infuses some salty goodness, enhancing the overall taste. After brining, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Next, set up a breading station with three separate bowls: one for seasoned flour, another for beaten eggs, and the last for bread crumbs. Dredge the chicken pieces first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip them in the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off before finally coating them in the bread crumbs. This three-step process ensures an even and crispy coating.
What cooking oil is best for frying breaded chicken?
When frying breaded chicken, the choice of cooking oil plays a significant role in achieving the ideal crispy texture. Oils with a high smoke point are recommended, such as canola, peanut, or vegetable oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures required for frying without burning, allowing the chicken to cook evenly and develop a golden crust.
It’s crucial to ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to avoid sogginess. Using a thermometer, aim for a temperature of about 350°F (175°C) when frying. Testing a small piece of bread or chicken in the oil can help determine if it’s ready—if it bubbles and sizzles, it’s time to fry.
How long should I fry the chicken for optimal crispiness?
The frying time for chicken can vary depending on the cut and size of the pieces. Generally, bone-in chicken parts should be fried for about 12 to 15 minutes per side, while boneless pieces may take around 6 to 8 minutes per side. It’s essential to monitor the chicken closely to prevent overcooking, which can lead to dryness and toughness.
To check for doneness, you can use a meat thermometer, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Additionally, the chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, which is a good indicator that it’s nearly done. Allowing the chicken to rest after frying will help maintain its juiciness.
Can I bake my breaded chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can certainly bake breaded chicken instead of frying it for a healthier option. To achieve a crispy texture while baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, promoting even cooking and crispiness.
Before baking, you may choose to spray the chicken lightly with cooking oil to enhance the browning. Bake the chicken for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baking is a great way to enjoy delicious breaded chicken with less oil while still achieving a satisfying crunch.
How should I store leftover breaded chicken?
To store leftover breaded chicken, first allow it to cool to room temperature to prevent condensation from forming, which could make the coating soggy. Place the chicken in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary to prevent sticking. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you wish to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing the chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven to maintain its crispiness.