Shocking! How Long Does Fried Chicken Take To Cook? Here’s The Answer!
What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the factors that influence cooking time and provide step-by-step instructions to achieve perfectly cooked fried chicken every time.
- Always use a thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Place the chicken in the pressure cooker with a cup of water.
Craving crispy, golden-brown fried chicken? Mastering the art of frying chicken at home requires knowing the crucial answer: how long does fried chicken take to cook? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the factors that influence cooking time and provide step-by-step instructions to achieve perfectly cooked fried chicken every time.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
Before we dive into the cooking time, let’s explore the factors that can impact it:
- Size and Thickness: Larger and thicker pieces of chicken will naturally take longer to cook than smaller, thinner ones.
- Temperature of Oil: The ideal temperature for frying chicken is between 350-375°F (177-191°C). Lower temperatures can result in soggy chicken, while higher temperatures can burn the outside before the inside is cooked through.
- Type of Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook faster than bone-in, skin-on pieces.
- Marination: Marinating chicken helps tenderize and flavor it, but it can also add moisture, which can increase cooking time slightly.
- Coating: The type of coating you use, whether it’s flour, breadcrumbs, or batter, can also affect cooking time.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Materials:
- Chicken pieces
- Seasonings of your choice
- Flour, breadcrumbs, or batter
- Frying oil
- Thermometer
- Deep fryer or large pot
Instructions:
1. Season Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
2. Coat Chicken: If desired, coat the chicken in flour, breadcrumbs, or batter.
3. Heat Oil: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350-375°F (177-191°C).
4. Fry Chicken: Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
5. Cook to Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts should reach 165°F (74°C), while bone-in, skin-on pieces should reach 180°F (82°C).
6. Drain and Rest: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Times
Based on the factors mentioned above, here are approximate cooking times for different types of chicken:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 8-12 minutes
- Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Breasts: 12-15 minutes
- Chicken Thighs (Boneless or Bone-In): 12-18 minutes
- Chicken Drumsticks: 15-20 minutes
- Whole Chicken: 40-60 minutes
Safety Precautions
- Always use a thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Do not overcrowd the pot when frying chicken.
- Avoid splattering hot oil by carefully lowering the chicken into the oil.
- Use a splatter screen to protect yourself from hot oil.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Double-coat the chicken for extra crispy skin.
- Let the chicken rest before frying to allow the coating to adhere better.
- Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become dry and tough.
- Serve fried chicken immediately for maximum crispiness.
Beyond the Basics
Air Fryer Fried Chicken:
Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to deep frying. Cooking times may vary depending on the model, but expect a similar range as deep frying.
Oven-Fried Chicken:
While not as crispy as deep frying, oven-fried chicken is a convenient option. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and bake the chicken for 20-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Pressure Cooker Fried Chicken:
Pressure cookers can significantly reduce cooking time. Place the chicken in the pressure cooker with a cup of water. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 12-15 minutes for bone-in, skin-on pieces.
The Bottom Line: Mastering the Art of Fried Chicken
By understanding the factors that influence cooking time and following the step-by-step instructions, you can achieve perfectly cooked fried chicken every time. Whether you prefer boneless breasts or juicy thighs, crispy skin or flavorful marinades, this guide will empower you to create mouthwatering fried chicken that will delight your taste buds.
Top Questions Asked
Q: What is the best temperature to fry chicken at?
A: The ideal temperature range for frying chicken is 350-375°F (177-191°C).
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts should reach 165°F (74°C), while bone-in, skin-on pieces should reach 180°F (82°C).
Q: Can I fry chicken without coating it?
A: Yes, you can fry chicken without coating it. However, the skin will not be as crispy as if you had coated it.
Q: What is the best way to reheat fried chicken?
A: To reheat fried chicken, place it on a baking sheet and heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze fried chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze fried chicken. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and freeze it for up to 3 months.