How To Make Fried Chicken Thighs That Are So Crispy You’ll Think You’re Eating At Kfc!
What To Know
- Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
- One strategy for ensuring that the breading on fried chicken stays crispy and flavorful is to start with a high-quality chicken that is fresh and not previously frozen.
- The chicken should be dipped into the breading and then placed on a wire rack to allow the breading to set.
Chicken thighs are delicious, versatile, and relatively inexpensive. But they can be intimidating to cook, especially if you’re used to cooking chicken breasts. I’m here to tell you that cooking chicken thighs is actually pretty easy. All you need is a hot pan, some oil, and a little bit of patience. And trust me, it’s worth the wait.
How To Fried Chicken Thighs
Fried chicken is a dish that is incredibly easy to make. However, if you don’t have the proper technique, the chicken will come out greasy and soggy. To prevent this, follow these tips:
First, pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This will help the coating to stick to the chicken.
Next, mix the flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat.
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Fried chicken thighs are a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or an appetizer. They are also great for making sandwiches or salads.
What Is The Best Way To Season Chicken Thighs Before Frying Them?
- Use a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a classic seasoning.
- Marinate the chicken in a sauce or marinade for at least 30 minutes before frying.
- Coat the chicken in flour or cornstarch before frying for a crispier crust.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices for different flavors.
- Make sure the chicken is thoroughly cooked before serving.
What Are Some Tips For Ensuring The Chicken Is Cooked Thoroughly But Not Overcooked?
Thoroughly cooking chicken is essential to avoid food poisoning, but overcooking can make it dry and tough. Here are some tips for cooking chicken thoroughly without overcooking it:
1. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that the thickest part of the chicken has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the temperature at which the chicken is safe to eat, but it will not be dry.
2. Cook the chicken at a lower temperature for longer. This will allow it to gently cook through without drying out.
3. Baste the chicken with its own juices to keep it moist.
4. When cooking chicken breasts, place them in a baking dish and cover them with foil. This will keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out.
5. When cooking chicken thighs, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This will allow the air to circulate around the chicken and prevent it from steaming, which can cause it to dry out.
By following these tips, you can cook chicken thoroughly without overcooking it and end up with a delicious and juicy meal.
What Is The Best Way To Ensure The Breading On The Fried Chicken Is Crispy And Flavorful?
One strategy for ensuring that the breading on fried chicken stays crispy and flavorful is to start with a high-quality chicken that is fresh and not previously frozen. The chicken should be patted dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, as this can cause the breading to become less crispy.
Another important step is to season the chicken well with salt and pepper before breading it. This will help to enhance the flavor and ensure that the chicken is not bland.
Once the chicken has been seasoned, the breading should be mixed in a separate container. This container should be large enough to accommodate the amount of chicken that you want to bread. The breading should be made with a mixture of flour, baking powder, and seasonings such as garlic powder and onion powder. The chicken should be dipped into the breading and then placed on a wire rack to allow the breading to set.
Once the chicken has been breaded, it should be fried in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. The oil should be heated to a temperature of about 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Finally, the chicken should be drained on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess grease. This will also help to keep the breading crispy.
What Are Some Possible Side Dishes To Serve With Fried Chicken Thighs?
1. Mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries: These classic sides pair well with fried chicken, providing a filling and comforting contrast to the crispy, savory chicken.
2. Coleslaw: The crisp freshness of coleslaw provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the fried chicken.
3. Corn bread or biscuits: These buttery, crumbly sides provide a delicious contrast to the crispy chicken.
4. Mac and cheese: The creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.
5. Fried okra or green beans: These crispy, salty sides provide a delicious contrast to the fried chicken.
6. Hush puppies: These cornmeal-based fritters are a classic Southern side dish, and they’re perfect with fried chicken.
7. Fried pickles or onion rings: These crispy, salty sides provide a delicious contrast to the fried chicken.
8. Corn on the cob: The sweet, juicy kernels of corn on the cob pair perfectly with the crispy chicken.
What Is The Best Way To Store Leftover Fried Chicken Thighs?
The best way to store leftover fried chicken thighs is by placing them in an airtight container or Ziploc bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. This will help to keep the chicken fresh and prevent it from drying out. Additionally, you can wrap the chicken in aluminum foil or place it in a storage container with a lid. The chicken should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 3-4 days for the best quality. If you want to freeze the chicken, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To defrost, place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or run it under cold water until thawed. Once thawed, the chicken should be used within 1-2 days.
Final Note
In conclusion, the key to perfectly fried chicken thighs is to start with high-quality, skin-on chicken thighs, and to then carefully follow the steps outlined in this blog post. With a little practice, you’ll be able to make fried chicken that is perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start frying!