Classic Fried Chicken is a timeless dish that showcases the beauty and flavor of farm-fresh ingredients. This traditional chicken recipe, shared by Sandra Anderson from New York, New York, highlights the simplicity and deliciousness of a well-prepared fried chicken. In the past, our foods didn’t need elaborate embellishments to look and taste wonderful, and this dish is a perfect example of that philosophy. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that is comforting, satisfying, and reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
The combination of all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, and pepper creates a coating that adds a delightful crunch to the chicken while enhancing its natural flavors. The chicken is then fried to perfection, resulting in juicy meat and a crispy exterior. Each bite is a nostalgic experience that transports you to a time when simple and wholesome ingredients were at the heart of our meals.
Prepare to indulge in the classic flavors of fried chicken with this straightforward recipe that honors tradition and simplicity. Whether served for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Classic Fried Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 broiler/fryer chicken (3 to 4 pounds), cut up
- Oil for frying
PREPARATION:
- In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the first four ingredients (all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, and pepper). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then add a few pieces at a time to the bag. Seal the bag and shake it to coat the chicken evenly.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat ½ inch of oil. Fry the chicken until it is browned on all sides. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the juices run clear, turning the chicken occasionally. Uncover the chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Drain the chicken on paper towels.
YIELD: Makes 6 servings
PREP/COOK TIME: 10 minutes of preparation, 45 minutes of cooking
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Ensure that the chicken is dry before coating it in the flour mixture. This will help the coating adhere better and create a crispy crust.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for even heat distribution and to prevent the chicken from burning.
- Monitor the oil temperature carefully to maintain the ideal frying temperature, typically around 350°F (175°C).
- For safety, use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is cooked through.
TIPS:
- For added flavor, you can season the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices before coating it in the flour mixture. Popular additions include paprika, dried thyme, or cayenne pepper.
- Serve Classic Fried Chicken with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of pepper or adding other spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Allow the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack for a few minutes after draining on paper towels. This will help keep the crust crisp and prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Leftover fried chicken can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold the next day or reheated in the oven to restore its crispy texture.
Classic Fried Chicken is a timeless and satisfying dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and simple, farm-fresh ingredients. This traditional recipe, shared by Sandra Anderson from New York, New York, honors the simplicity and deliciousness of well-prepared fried chicken. With a crispy exterior and juicy meat, each bite of this classic dish is a delightful experience that will transport you to a time when comfort food brought joy and contentment.
The combination of all-purpose flour, salt, garlic powder, and pepper creates a flavorful coating that perfectly complements the chicken. As it fries to a beautiful golden brown, the chicken becomes tender, moist, and irresistibly delicious.
Prepare to enjoy the familiar and comforting flavors of Classic Fried Chicken. This straightforward recipe allows the natural flavors of the chicken to shine and provides a delightful crunch with each bite. Serve it with traditional sides and savor the nostalgia of a well-prepared fried chicken dinner.
Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed as a solo indulgence, Classic Fried Chicken is a dish that brings people together and evokes feelings of warmth and happiness. Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of this timeless recipe and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
