Good Fried Chicken
Juicy, crispy fried chicken with flavorful seasoning, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying crunch and tender meat with classic Southern appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine salt, pepper, paprika, and flour in a bowl.
- Add chicken pieces and coat 2 to 3 pieces at a time.
- Heat margarine and Crisco in an electric skillet or cast-iron skillet until a drop of water sizzles in it.
- Brown the meaty chicken pieces first, then add the remaining pieces.
- When lightly browned, reduce heat and add 2 tablespoons of water.
- Cover and cook for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Uncover the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider adding a bit of cornmeal to your flour mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead of margarine and Crisco. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches for even cooking. If you want a kick, add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. These tips will elevate your fried chicken experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your fried chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Small Chicken Casserole for a hearty family dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh green salad on the side. A drizzle of honey or hot sauce can also enhance the flavor!
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Fried Chicken contains roughly 32 calories, with 3g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1910mg 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 boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken. Just adjust the cooking time, as boneless pieces will require less time to cook through. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What can I do if my chicken isn’t browning?
If your chicken isn't browning, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. You can test this by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. Additionally, avoid moving the chicken around too much while frying to allow it to develop a crispy crust.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well for frying. Some recommend using rice flour or almond flour for a unique texture. Just ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
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).