Traditional fried chicken is a classic and comforting dish that is loved by many. This recipe serves 8 people and features chicken pieces coated in a flavorful flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. The crispy and juicy chicken is accompanied by a delicious gravy, adding even more flavor to the dish. With its simple yet satisfying flavors, traditional fried chicken is a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering or family meal.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 small chickens, each cut into 8 pieces
- 250g/9oz plain flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 400g/14oz lard
For the Gravy:
- 25g/1oz butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 175ml/6fl oz chicken stock
- 50ml/2fl oz single cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Wash each chicken piece under cold running water and pat dry with kitchen paper.
- In a large bag, combine the flour, salt, mustard powder, and black pepper. Shake the bag to blend the ingredients.
- Drop a few chicken pieces into the bag at a time and shake vigorously until each piece is thoroughly coated. Remove the chicken from the bag and shake off any excess flour.
- In a heavy frying pan, heat the lard over medium heat. The fat should fill the pan to a depth of about 5cm/2in. Add more lard if needed.
- When the fat is hot but not smoking, begin frying the chicken. Start with the thighs and legs, and cover the pan. Occasionally lift the cover to check that the chicken is not burning. Fry until each piece turns a dark brown, then flip them over, cover, and cook until dark brown on the other side. Repeat the process for the remaining chicken pieces.
- For the gravy, pour out the frying fat from the pan and replace it with melted butter. Stir in the flour until bubbly. Gradually add the chicken stock and cream, stirring continuously, and cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve the traditional fried chicken hot, with the gravy served separately.
YIELD:
- This recipe serves 8 people.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Handle raw chicken with care and follow proper food safety guidelines to prevent cross-contamination.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 75°C/165°F.
TIPS:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk or a seasoned brine before coating them in the flour mixture.
- Serve the fried chicken with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or biscuits for a complete meal.
- Adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional spices or herbs for more flavor variation.
Traditional fried chicken is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. This recipe serves 8 people and features crispy and succulent chicken pieces coated in a flavorful flour mixture and fried to perfection. The accompanying gravy adds richness and flavor to the dish. With its classic and straightforward preparation, traditional fried chicken is a beloved favorite for gatherings, potlucks, or family meals. Serve it with your choice of sides for a satisfying and delicious feast.
