An Irresistible Twist on a Classic: Kickin’ Fried Chicken
There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy piece of fried chicken. Our Kickin’ Fried Chicken recipe takes this beloved comfort food to new heights by adding a spicy kick that will awaken your taste buds. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress and delight everyone around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because of its unique combination of flavors. The marinade, with its hint of pickle juice and a dash of Tabasco, infuses the chicken with a zesty punch, while the seasoned flour coating provides the perfect crispy texture. It’s an easy recipe that delivers big on taste, transforming a simple meal into a memorable dining experience.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Deep fryer or iron skillet
- Whisk
- Cookie sheet
- Cooling rack
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground sage
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine milk, pickle juice, Tabasco sauce, and the beaten egg.
- Place the chicken pieces into this marinade and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground sage, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and oregano for dredging.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or iron skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Dredge the marinated chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it back into the marinade before coating it again in the flour.
- Place the coated chicken on a cookie sheet and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Fry 2-3 pieces at a time in the hot oil, cooking for 7-8 minutes for boneless pieces or 10-12 minutes for bone-in pieces, turning occasionally. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- To keep the chicken warm and crispy while you finish cooking, preheat the oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and place the fried chicken on a cooling rack over a cookie sheet.
Tips for Success
- Make sure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid greasy chicken—use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Letting the chicken rest after dredging helps the coating adhere better during frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer; cook in batches for even crispiness.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices in the dredging mixture to customize the flavor to your liking.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 300
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used. They may cook a bit faster, so check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I prepare this recipe without a deep fryer?
Absolutely! An iron skillet works well. Just ensure the oil is deep enough to submerge the chicken pieces.
Conclusion
Our Kickin’ Fried Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to indulge in a flavorful adventure. We hope you enjoy making and devouring this crispy, spicy delight. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you’ve tried with this recipe. Happy cooking!