Crispy Crumb Fried Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Crispy crumb fried chicken offers a savory, herb-loaded crust with tender meat inside, perfect for family dinners or special occasions craving classic Southern comfort flavor.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2/3 cups finely crushed herb-seasoned stuffing mix
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1 frying chicken (2 1/2-3 lbs) cut up or chicken pieces
  • 1/2 cup Crisco shortening

Instructions

  1. Combine the crushed herb-seasoned stuffing mix, salt, pepper, and paprika on waxed paper.
  2. Moisten the chicken with water and coat it evenly with the crumb mixture.
  3. Heat Crisco shortening to 365°F in an electric skillet or on medium-high in a large heavy skillet.
  4. Fry the coated chicken, turning once for even browning, and reduce heat to medium low.
  5. Cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
  6. Turn once more for even browning if needed.
  7. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the crumb mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the Crisco shortening with olive oil for frying. To ensure a crispy coating, let the coated chicken rest for about 10 minutes before frying. Always use a thermometer to check that the oil is at the right temperature, around 365°F, for the best frying results.

Serving Suggestions

Serve crispy crumb fried chicken with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a classic meal. It pairs beautifully with Restaurant Cheese Soup as a comforting starter. For a refreshing contrast, consider a green salad or steamed vegetables. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain the crispiness of the coating compared to using a microwave.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crispy Crumb Fried Chicken contains roughly 97 calories, with 4g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2091mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).

97 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.8g 8% DV
Total Fat 5.5g 7% DV
Carbs 8.2g 3% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2090.8mg 91% DV
Potassium 90.7mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 7.7mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 53.8mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 0.8mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 15.6mg 1% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use skinless chicken pieces for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken pieces, but keep in mind that the skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor. If you prefer skinless, make sure to marinate the chicken in buttermilk for extra tenderness before coating it with the crumb mixture.

What can I do if the coating isn't sticking to the chicken?

If the coating isn't sticking, try patting the chicken dry with paper towels before moistening it with water. You can also lightly dust the chicken with flour before dipping it into the crumb mixture. This creates a better base for the crumbs to adhere to.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Certainly! To add heat, you can incorporate cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the crumb mixture or even sprinkle some directly onto the chicken before frying. Adjust the amount to your taste preference for a spicy kick.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Chicken recipes → All recipes →