Crispy Pan Fried Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of Crispy Pan Fried Chicken. Growing up, my family would gather around the table, the tantalizing scent of golden chicken wafting through the air. I can still remember my mother’s laughter as she shared stories while cooking, the sizzle of chicken frying in the background, and the anticipation that built as we waited for dinner. This recipe brings that same joy to my kitchen, as I recreate those cherished moments with friends and family. The secret lies in the perfect blend of spices and the right technique, resulting in chicken that’s not only crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside. Each bite is a reminder of home and the love that goes into cooking. I can’t wait for you to share this dish with your loved ones, creating new memories around the dinner table.

Crispy Pan Fried Chicken Shopping List

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for achieving the best results with your Crispy Pan Fried Chicken. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the chicken itself to the spices that enhance the flavor. The combination of flour, eggs, and panko creates a crispy coating that makes this dish unforgettable.

• 2 lbs Chicken: Use bone-in or boneless pieces, depending on your preference. The chicken is the star of the dish!
• Vegetable Oil or Peanut Oil: Choose a high smoke point oil for frying. It helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your breading. It helps create that delightful crunch.
• 3 Large Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder, helping the coating stick to the chicken.
• 1 cup Panko: This Japanese breadcrumb adds extra crunch and texture to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for flavor; it enhances the taste of the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon Pepper: Freshly ground for the best flavor, it adds a hint of spice.
• 1 tablespoon Paprika: This spice brings warmth and color to the dish.
• 3 teaspoons Garlic Powder: A must-have for that savory flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Baking Powder: This ingredient helps the coating become light and crispy when frying.

Preparation Steps for Crispy Pan Fried Chicken

When it comes to making Crispy Pan Fried Chicken, following each step with care is key to achieving the best results. The process is simple yet requires attention to detail. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to make your cooking experience enjoyable and rewarding.

1. Preheat your oven to 170 degrees. This will keep the chicken warm once it’s fried, ensuring it stays crispy.

2. Take your chicken pieces and place them on paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly; this step is crucial as moisture can prevent the breading from adhering properly and achieving that desired crunch.

3. In a heavy-duty pan, pour enough oil to cover about one inch deep. Heat it on medium to medium-high, allowing it to reach a temperature of around 350 degrees. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, which is vital for perfect frying.

4. Once the oil is hot, sprinkle your chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. This adds an initial layer of flavor before breading.

5. Prepare a three-pan breading station. In the first pan, add the flour; in the second, pour in the beaten eggs. In the third pan, mix together the panko, baking powder, and remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This process is essential for creating a well-seasoned and crunchy coating.

6. Working in small batches, take a piece of chicken and coat it first in the flour, making sure to cover all sides thoroughly. Then dip it in the eggs, ensuring it’s well coated, and finally, roll it in the panko mixture to achieve a full coating.

7. Carefully drop the coated chicken into the hot oil. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan to maintain a consistent temperature. The chicken should bubble energetically to indicate it’s cooking properly.

8. Monitor the cooking process, adjusting the heat as necessary. The chicken should cook until it reaches a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165 degrees. You’ll notice that the chicken floats when it’s done.

9. Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Keep it in the preheated oven to stay warm while you finish frying the rest.

10. Once all the chicken is fried, serve hot. Pair it with your favorite sides for a delightful meal.

Helpful Hints

To ensure your Crispy Pan Fried Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps for about three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the fried chicken for up to three months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in an oven at 350 degrees for about 10 to 15 minutes to restore its crispiness.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Meal Prep: Cook a large batch in advance and keep it in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to change up the spice mix in the breading to suit your taste preferences.

Serving This Crispy Pan Fried Chicken

Serving Crispy Pan Fried Chicken can be just as enjoyable as making it. Here are some ideas to consider:

• With Sides: Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting dinner.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is fantastic for family gatherings or potlucks, where everyone can enjoy a bite of crispy goodness.
• Lunch Options: Serve leftovers in a sandwich with lettuce and mayo for a delicious lunch option.
• Seasonal Pairing: In the summer, enjoy it with a fresh corn salad, and in the winter, pair it with hearty roasted root vegetables.
• Keep Warm: If serving at a gathering, keep the fried chicken warm in a low oven until ready to serve to maintain its crispiness.
• Make It a Meal: Add a refreshing slaw or a tangy dipping sauce to elevate your serving experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Crispy Pan Fried Chicken is truly a celebration of flavor and texture, bringing a taste of home to your table. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply indulging in a delicious meal at home. You’ll find that with every bite, you’re not just enjoying a dish but reliving cherished moments and creating new memories around the table.

Crispy Pan Fried Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Crispy Pan Fried Chicken is golden, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. This easy weeknight dinner will satisfy those cravings, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings any night of the week.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs Chicken Bone in or bone out
• 1 cup Vegetable Oil or Peanut Oil For frying, 1 inch deep in the pan
• 1 cup All Purpose Flour
• 3 large Eggs Beaten
• 1 cup Panko
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Paprika
• 3 teaspoons Garlic Powder
• 1 tablespoon Baking Powder

Equipment

• Heavy Duty Pan
• Paper Towels
• Thermometer

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 170 degrees. This will keep the chicken warm once it’s fried, ensuring it stays crispy.
2. Take your chicken pieces and place them on paper towels. Pat them dry thoroughly; this step is crucial as moisture can prevent the breading from adhering properly and achieving that desired crunch.
3. In a heavy-duty pan, pour enough oil to cover about one inch deep. Heat it on medium to medium-high, allowing it to reach a temperature of around 350 degrees. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature, which is vital for perfect frying.
4. Once the oil is hot, sprinkle your chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper. This adds an initial layer of flavor before breading.
5. Prepare a three-pan breading station. In the first pan, add the flour; in the second, pour in the beaten eggs. In the third pan, mix together the panko, baking powder, and remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This process is essential for creating a well-seasoned and crunchy coating.
6. Working in small batches, take a piece of chicken and coat it first in the flour, making sure to cover all sides thoroughly. Then dip it in the eggs, ensuring it's well coated, and finally, roll it in the panko mixture to achieve a full coating.
7. Carefully drop the coated chicken into the hot oil. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan to maintain a consistent temperature. The chicken should bubble energetically to indicate it's cooking properly.
8. Monitor the cooking process, adjusting the heat as necessary. The chicken should cook until it reaches a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165 degrees. You'll notice that the chicken floats when it's done.
9. Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Keep it in the preheated oven to stay warm while you finish frying the rest.
10. Once all the chicken is fried, serve hot. Pair it with your favorite sides for a delightful meal.

Notes

• Tip 1: Always use a high temp oil for frying, like vegetable or peanut oil. Avoid olive oil.
• Tip 2: Use a thermometer to prevent burning and ensure the oil is hot enough for frying.
• Tip 3: For the breading to stick well, dry the meat thoroughly with paper towels.
• Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different spices to find your favorite flavor combination.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.