French Fried Chicken
Crispy, golden fried chicken coated in a light pancake batter, offering a tender interior and flavorful crunch—perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine pancake mix, salt, and water in a bowl.
- Beat the mixture for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Dip the chicken pieces into the batter and let excess drain off.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken until tender, about 10 minutes on each side.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the pancake mix. You can substitute the frying chicken with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result. If you prefer a lighter batter, use club soda instead of water. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your French fried chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Cold-Chaser Chicken Soup for a hearty dinner. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover French 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 (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the crispy coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Fried Chicken contains roughly 54 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1920mg per serving (83% 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 a different type of flour instead of pancake mix?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder and a pinch of salt as a substitute for pancake mix. This will also create a nice batter. Adjust the water as needed to achieve the right consistency.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free French fried chicken, replace the pancake mix with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the baking powder used is also gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the same crispy texture without the gluten.
What type of oil is best for frying chicken?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil are ideal for frying chicken due to their high smoke points, which allow for a crispier finish. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and may result in a burnt flavor.
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).