Spicy Fried Chicken(Makes 4 Servings)
Spicy fried chicken with bold pepper and paprika flavors, perfect for those who enjoy a crispy, flavorful, and mildly spicy dish suitable for any casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine pepper, poultry seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and dry mustard.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken pieces.
- Place the seasoned chicken in a paper or plastic bag to ensure even coating.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, garlic powder, and celery salt.
- Add chicken pieces to the flour mixture a few at a time.
- Shake the bag to evenly coat the chicken with the seasoned flour.
- Heat vegetable shortening in a skillet until hot.
- Fry the coated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the spice mixture. If you don't have all the spices, you can substitute with a pre-made Cajun seasoning. Letting the coated chicken rest for about 15 minutes before frying can help the coating adhere better, resulting in a crispier texture. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spicy fried chicken with a side of coleslaw or cornbread for a classic Southern meal. It pairs beautifully with Summertime Iced Tea, making it perfect for a family gathering or picnic. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the fried chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For the best reheating results, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, which will help restore its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Fried Chicken(Makes 4 Servings) contains roughly 142 calories, with 7g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1798mg per serving (78% 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?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken pieces, but keep in mind that the skin adds flavor and helps retain moisture. If you prefer skinless, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk before coating it to keep it juicy.
What can I do if the chicken isn't cooking evenly?
If the chicken isn't cooking evenly, check the temperature of the oil. It should be hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken but not so hot that it burns the coating. You can also cut larger pieces into smaller ones for more even cooking.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the spice and flour mixtures ahead of time. Coat the chicken and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight. Fry it just before serving to enjoy the best texture.
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).