Irma'S Fried Chicken
Irma's Fried Chicken offers crispy, flavorful skin with juicy, tender meat inside, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings that crave classic Southern comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a shallow dish.
- Mix beaten egg and milk in a separate bowl.
- Coat chicken pieces with seasoned flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and coat again with seasoned flour.
- Melt Crisco into a 12-inch skillet over medium heat until about 1/4-inch depth is reached.
- Cook chicken over medium heat in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet tightly and simmer, turning once or twice, until the thickest pieces are done, about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Remove the cover during the last 5 minutes of cooking to crisp the chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crispy coating, let the floured chicken rest for about 15 minutes before dipping in the egg mixture. You can substitute buttermilk for the milk in the egg mixture for added flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Remember to monitor the oil temperature to avoid burning while achieving even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Irma's Fried Chicken with classic sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Potato-Leek Crock-Pot Soup for a complete family dinner. For a lighter option, add a fresh garden salad. Consider serving with honey or hot sauce for extra flavor.
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 (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irma'S Fried Chicken contains roughly 417 calories, with 6g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 729mg per serving (32% 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 skinless chicken for this recipe?
While skinless chicken can be used, it may not achieve the same crispy texture as chicken with skin. The skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor. If you prefer skinless, consider marinating the chicken beforehand to enhance its taste.
What type of oil is best for frying chicken?
Crisco oil or solid Crisco is recommended for frying due to its high smoke point, which helps achieve a crispy texture. Alternatively, you can use vegetable oil or peanut oil if you prefer. Just ensure the oil is deep enough for even frying.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Also, check that the juices run clear when pierced with a fork, especially in the thickest parts.
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).