Fried Chicken
Crispy, flavorful fried chicken with a crunchy exterior and tender meat, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The seasoned batter creates a savory crust that complements the juicy chicken inside, making it a comforting classic suited for those who love hearty, Southern-style comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, meal, salt, and black pepper in a dish.
- Melt shortening in an electric skillet.
- Roll each piece of chicken in the batter until coated.
- Fry the chicken in the electric skillet at 350°F for 45 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the flour mixture. If you don't have shortening, vegetable oil or lard can be used as a substitute. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect crispy texture. For a twist, try serving with a side of cola barbecued chicken for a unique flavor experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a comforting meal. A refreshing cucumber salad can also complement the richness of the chicken. This dish pairs beautifully with chicken broccoli and rice for a complete family dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Chicken contains roughly 873 calories, with 16g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (109% of the Daily Value), iron (72% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1958mg per serving (85% 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 instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used for quicker cooking. Just adjust the frying time to about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Ensure they are cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I do if my chicken isn't browning?
If the chicken isn't browning, your oil may not be hot enough. Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, ensuring it's at 350°F before frying. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can cause the temperature to drop.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the cornmeal is also gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the same delicious fried chicken without gluten.
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).