fried chicken in skillet recipe

fried chicken in skillet recipe

The Best fried chicken in skillet recipe

Fried chicken in a skillet is a dish that has been around for decades, originating from the Southern United States. It’s a staple in many households, particularly during family gatherings and holidays. The dish is known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, which is achieved by using a specific cooking technique.

The key to making great fried chicken is to not overcook it, as this can result in a dry and tough texture. By cooking the chicken in a skillet with oil, you can achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients and watching the chicken cook in the skillet. It’s a great way to spend quality time together while creating a delicious meal. Over time, I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it healthier, using less oil and more herbs for flavor.

This version of fried chicken is perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. It’s also a great way to get your daily dose of protein and vitamins from the herbs. I’ve found that this recipe works well for both weeknight dinners and Sunday lunches.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s easy to scale up or down depending on the number of people you’re serving.

Classic Skillet Fried Chicken

Classic Skillet Fried Chicken

4.6 from 798 votes

Crispy, golden fried chicken made entirely in a cast iron skillet. The buttermilk brine ensures juicy meat while the seasoned flour creates a shatteringly crunchy crust.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 480 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

2 cups buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)

For the Coating

1.5 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2Add the chicken thighs, turning to coat, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
3In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
4Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to adhere.
5Pour vegetable oil into a large cast iron skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch.
6Heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and a pinch of flour sizzles immediately, about 350°F on a thermometer.
7Carefully place the chicken pieces skin-side down into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan.
8Fry for 5 to 7 minutes until the underside is deep golden brown, then flip using tongs.
9Reduce heat to medium and continue frying for another 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 165°F and the crust is evenly browned and crispy.
10Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain.
11Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

🔧Equipment

Large cast iron skillet
Mixing bowls
Tongs
Paper towels
Wire rack
Instant-read thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 480 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 820mg🌾Total Carbs: 24g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For extra crunch, let the coated chicken rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the flour mixture adhere better.

Watch Video Of How Classic Skillet Fried Chicken Works

This skillet fried chicken recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it is simple and reliable. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a 375 degree oven for about 10 minutes. This keeps the skin crispy instead of soggy.

You can also serve the chicken cold in sandwiches or on top of salads. It works for casual dinners, holiday meals, or any time you want something satisfying.

I always keep the ingredients on hand because this recipe never fails to please a crowd.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Skillet Fried Chicken

Q: What type of oil should I use for frying?

For frying chicken, I recommend using peanut oil or avocado oil, as they have a high smoke point and won’t break down easily when heated. You can also use vegetable oil, but keep an eye on the temperature to prevent burning.

Q: How do I achieve crispy skin?

Crispy skin is all about achieving the right balance of moisture and heat. Make sure your chicken is patted dry before cooking, then let it sit for 10-15 minutes after dredging in flour to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Next, increase the heat to high and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the skin turns golden brown.

Q: Can I use this recipe with different types of meat?

While this recipe was designed specifically for chicken thighs, you can experiment with other cuts like drumsticks or wings. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on their size and thickness.

Q: How do I store leftover fried chicken?

Leftover fried chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below within 2 hours of cooking. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend made from rice flour, almond flour, or coconut flour. Be aware that gluten-free flours may produce slightly different results due to their varying properties.

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