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There’s something universally comforting about fried chicken. The crackling sound as it sizzles in hot oil, the irresistible aroma that fills the air, and that first bite—where crispy golden skin gives way to tender, juicy meat. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether it’s a casual family dinner, a weekend gathering, or a celebration with friends.
For me, fried chicken isn’t just food; it’s a part of my childhood. I remember watching my grandmother in her tiny yet bustling kitchen, meticulously seasoning each piece of chicken, letting the flavors soak in before coating them in a thin layer of flour and cornstarch. She never rushed the process. She knew that great fried chicken wasn’t just about the crunch but about creating something that felt like home.
Every weekend, our family would gather around the table, eager for that first bite. She always served it fresh from the pan, warning us to be careful with the heat but knowing we could never wait. The first crunch was pure bliss—perfectly seasoned skin giving way to steaming, juicy meat. Those moments were more than just about food; they were about love, tradition, and the joy of sharing a simple but perfect meal.
Now, every time I make this fried chicken recipe, I feel like I’m carrying on a tradition—one that I hope will continue for generations. And today, I’m sharing that tradition with you.
What Makes This Fried Chicken the Best?
There are countless ways to make fried chicken, but this recipe stands out because of its:
- Perfectly Balanced Seasoning: A combination of garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and a touch of soy sauce infuses the chicken with deep, savory flavors.
- Crispy, Light Coating: A blend of flour and cornstarch creates an incredibly crunchy yet delicate crust that holds up even after cooling.
- Juicy, Tender Meat: Marinating the chicken in seasonings, calamansi (or lemon juice), and a small amount of egg ensures that every bite is moist and flavorful.
- Golden, Even Frying: The method used ensures that each piece fries up perfectly golden without burning or becoming greasy.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken Wings | 2.2 lbs (1 kg) |
| Salt | 1 ¼ tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Onion Powder (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Black Pepper | ¾ tsp |
| Chicken Powder or Magic Sarap | ¼ tsp |
| Soy Sauce | 1 ½ tbsp |
| Calamansi Extract/Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Beaten Egg | 1 small |
| Flour | 1 ½ tbsp |
| Cornstarch | 8 tbsp |
Directions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the chicken wings with salt, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, chicken powder, soy sauce, and calamansi extract. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the beaten egg, flour, and cornstarch to the marinated chicken. Mix until evenly coated.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the wings in batches until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving for maximum crispiness.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~20g |
| Carbohydrates | ~15g |
| Fats | ~12g |
| Sodium | ~500mg |
The Secret to Crispy Fried Chicken
A lot of people struggle to achieve that perfect crispiness that restaurant-quality fried chicken is known for. Here are a few key tips to ensure your chicken turns out perfect every time:
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1. Use Cornstarch for Extra Crunch
Cornstarch is the magic ingredient that helps create a crispy, light crust. While flour alone can make a great coating, adding cornstarch prevents the crust from becoming too dense and helps it fry up with a beautiful, shatteringly crisp texture.
2. Double-Coating for Maximum Crisp
For extra crunch, coat the chicken once, let it rest for a few minutes, then coat it again before frying. This extra step ensures a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up even after sitting for a while.
3. Fry at the Right Temperature
If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. The ideal frying temperature is around 325–350°F (165–175°C). Using a thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect frying conditions.
4. Let It Rest on a Wire Rack
After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy due to trapped steam.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature and results in uneven cooking. Always fry in batches to maintain consistent heat.
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FAQs About Fried Chicken
1. Can I Use Boneless Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! While bone-in wings and drumsticks are traditional, you can use boneless thighs or breast pieces. Just be mindful of cooking times—boneless chicken cooks faster than bone-in.
2. Can I Bake This Instead of Frying?
For a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, baking won’t achieve the same level of crispiness as frying.
3. Can I Use an Air Fryer?
Yes! To air fry, lightly spray the chicken with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. The result will be crispy, but slightly different from deep frying.
4. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
To keep fried chicken crispy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer for the best texture.
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5. What’s the Best Oil for Frying?
Neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil, are best. Avoid olive oil, as it burns at high temperatures.
6. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season the chicken and let it marinate in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. This enhances the flavor and keeps the meat extra juicy.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s a reason fried chicken is loved all over the world. It’s more than just food—it’s a nostalgic, comforting experience that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a weekend meal, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving something crispy and delicious, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
The combination of perfectly seasoned meat, a crispy golden crust, and that unmistakable crunch makes this fried chicken truly special. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make at home with just a few simple techniques.
So gather your ingredients, heat up your oil, and get ready to make the best fried chicken you’ve ever had. Because nothing beats the joy of biting into a perfectly crispy, juicy piece of homemade fried chicken.