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Crispy Fried Chicken

Name: Crispy Fried Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 servings.
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour, divided; 2 tablespoons garlic salt; 1 tablespoon paprika; 3 teaspoons pepper, divided; 2-1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning; 2 large eggs; 1-1/2 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 broiler/fryer chickens (3-1/2 to 4 pounds each), cut up; Oil for deep-fat frying

117 reviews

Test Kitchen Approved

Total Time

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 15 min./batch

Makes

12 servings

Updated: Jun. 18, 2023

If you've wanted to learn how to make crispy fried chicken, this is the recipe for you. Always a picnic favorite, this deep fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! —Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, Montana

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
2 tablespoons garlic salt
1 tablespoon paprika
3 teaspoons pepper, divided
2-1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
2 large eggs
1-1/2 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
2 broiler/fryer chickens (3-1/2 to 4 pounds each), cut up
Oil for deep-fat frying

Directions

In a large shallow dish, combine 2-2/3 cups flour, garlic salt, paprika, 2-1/2 teaspoons pepper and poultry seasoning. In another shallow dish, beat eggs and 1-1/2 cups water; add salt and the remaining 1-1/3 cups flour and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Dip chicken in egg mixture, then place in flour mixture, a few pieces at a time. Turn to coat.
In a deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry chicken, several pieces at a time, until chicken is golden brown and juices run clear, 7-8 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.

Fried Chicken Tips

How long does chicken take to fry?

Typically, chicken should be fried for about 7-8 minutes per side. But keep in mind that pieces can vary in size and thickness. The chicken is fully cooked when the thickest part of the meat registers at 165° and the skin is crispy and dark golden-brown in color. Discover even more tasty fried chicken dishes.

What oil should I use for frying?

Neutral oils like canola, vegetable and peanut oil have higher smoke points, making them ideal for frying chicken. Learn more about selecting the right oil for frying.

Should you soak chicken in milk before frying?

Yes, we recommend soaking chicken in milk before frying! Brining the chicken in buttermilk before frying will give you moist and juicy results. The acid in the buttermilk helps break down the protein in the chicken, creating tender meat. Try this method with this picnic fried chicken recipe. Be sure to check out these 30 minute chicken recipes, too!

Nutrition Facts

5 ounces cooked chicken: 543 calories, 33g fat (7g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 798mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.