Easy Fried Chicken
Crispy, flavorful fried chicken with a golden crust, perfect for comfort food lovers and suitable for family dinners or gatherings. Juicy inside with a savory coating.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put chicken pieces in a large Ziploc bag or bowl.
- Pour in enough marinade to coat the chicken.
- Add flour to the bag or bowl and seal or cover.
- Mix until chicken is well coated; coating will be gummy. Chill to set coating.
- Spray skillet with Pam and add 3 tablespoons of oil, then heat.
- Fry chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides.
- Add 2 tablespoons of water and cook, covered.
- If too much chicken to fit in the pan, brown in batches, then place in a baking pan.
- Finish cooking in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
- Use drippings from the pan to make gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with cornstarch or almond flour. You can also experiment with different spices in the flour coating, like paprika or garlic powder, for added depth. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken to achieve a perfect golden brown crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried chicken with classic sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with Nanny'S Potato Soup for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to drizzle some homemade gravy over the chicken for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking tray in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it stays crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Fried Chicken contains roughly 197 calories, with 8g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and iron (13% of the Daily Value).
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 boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces; however, adjust the cooking time as they will cook faster than bone-in pieces. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil or canola oil work well for frying due to their high smoke points. Avoid using olive oil, as it may burn at high temperatures. You can also use peanut oil for a slight nutty flavor.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the coated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy, turning halfway through.
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).