My Mother'S Fried Chicken
Golden fried chicken with crispy skin and tender meat, seasoned simply with salt and pepper, perfect for a comforting family meal or Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the chicken pieces in cold water for several hours to remove blood.
- Drain the chicken pieces.
- Place flour in a plastic bag for coating the chicken.
- Heat vegetable shortening in an iron skillet until hot enough for frying.
- Add chicken pieces to the hot fat and fry until brown on both sides.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper when browned.
- Cover the skillet and cook slowly until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the lid and fry until crispy on both sides.
- Remove the chicken to a heated serving platter.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the flour before coating the chicken. If you prefer a lighter option, use a mixture of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. Instead of shortening, you can use vegetable oil, but ensure it reaches the right temperature to avoid greasy chicken. Always use a thermometer to check the oil temperature for perfect frying.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fried chicken alongside classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with 'Jimmy'S' Rice for a hearty addition. Consider offering a dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or hot sauce, to elevate the flavors and provide a fun twist for your guests.
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 and warm it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it stays crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mother'S Fried Chicken contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% 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
How do I ensure my fried chicken is crispy?
To achieve a crispy crust, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, ideally around 350°F (175°C). After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent steam from making it soggy. Additionally, frying in small batches allows for better heat retention.
Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
While skinless chicken can be used, it may result in a less flavorful and juicy dish. The skin helps to lock in moisture and adds texture. If you prefer skinless, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk or a seasoned brine for several hours to enhance flavor and tenderness.
What type of flour is best for frying chicken?
All-purpose flour is the most commonly used for frying chicken due to its ability to create a crispy coating. However, for added flavor, you can mix in some cornmeal or use seasoned flour blends. For gluten-free options, chickpea flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend can also work well.
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).