How to elevate your fried chicken game: the cornstarch technique
What To Know
- As it fries, the cornstarch forms a thin crust that seals in the chicken’s natural juices and creates a satisfying crunch.
- Submerge the chicken in a solution of water, salt, and sugar for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.
- Brush the fried chicken with a mixture of honey and garlic sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
Craving irresistibly crispy fried chicken? Look no further than cornstarch! This magical ingredient transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the secrets of how to fried chicken with cornstarch, ensuring you achieve golden-brown perfection every time.
The Importance of Cornstarch
Cornstarch, a fine white powder, plays a crucial role in creating the signature crispiness of fried chicken. It absorbs moisture from the chicken’s surface, leaving it dry and ready to absorb the hot oil. As it fries, the cornstarch forms a thin crust that seals in the chicken’s natural juices and creates a satisfying crunch.
Choosing the Right Chicken
For the best results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. They fry more evenly and cook through faster than bone-in or skin-on pieces.
Brining the Chicken
Brining the chicken before frying enhances its flavor and moisture. Submerge the chicken in a solution of water, salt, and sugar for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight. This process helps the chicken absorb the seasonings and ensures a tender, juicy interior.
Creating the Cornstarch Coating
In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and any other desired spices. This mixture will form the crispy coating for your chicken.
Dredging the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. Dip each piece into the cornstarch mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
Frying the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Seasoning the Chicken
Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Season it immediately with additional salt and pepper, or your favorite seasonings, to enhance its flavor.
Serving the Chicken
Serve the crispy fried chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or gravy. Enjoy the irresistible crunch and juicy tenderness of this culinary delight!
The Perfect Sides for Crispy Fried Chicken
Complement your crispy fried chicken with these side dishes:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Tangy Coleslaw
- Savory Gravy
- Sweet Potato Fries
- Fresh Green Salad
Tips for Success
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best results.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to prevent the chicken from steaming.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F (74°C).
- Experiment with different seasonings to create unique flavor combinations.
Variations on the Recipe
- Spicy Fried Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cornstarch mixture for a kick of heat.
- Honey Garlic Fried Chicken: Brush the fried chicken with a mixture of honey and garlic sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
- Lemon Herb Fried Chicken: Add lemon zest and dried herbs to the cornstarch mixture for a refreshing and aromatic flavor.
Takeaways: A Culinary Masterpiece
Mastering the art of how to fried chicken with cornstarch is a culinary skill that will impress your family and friends. By following these steps and experimenting with different seasonings, you can create crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken that is sure to become a favorite dish. So, gather your ingredients, crank up the heat, and embark on a journey of culinary delight!
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Why is my fried chicken not crispy?
- The chicken may not have been coated evenly with cornstarch.
- The oil may not have been hot enough when the chicken was added.
- The chicken may have been overcrowded in the pan, preventing it from getting crispy.
2. How can I make my fried chicken extra crispy?
- Double-dredge the chicken in the cornstarch mixture.
- Fry the chicken in a deep fryer for a more even crispiness.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the crust to set.
3. What is the best way to store fried chicken?
- Store fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness.