The Secret To Juicy Fried Chicken: How To Coat It With Cornstarch!

Frying chicken to achieve perfect crispiness can be a daunting task, but with the magic of cornstarch, you can transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece. Cornstarch, a versatile ingredient, not only enhances crunchiness but also adds a delightful golden-brown hue to your fried chicken. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the secrets of how to fry chicken with cornstarch, ensuring you achieve tantalizing results every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces)
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
• In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
• Season the chicken pieces generously with the dry mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

• Fill a large skillet or Dutch oven with enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of 2-3 inches.
• Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can use a kitchen thermometer to accurately measure the temperature.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

• Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn the chicken occasionally, ensuring even cooking.

Step 4: Drain and Season

• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and drain it on paper towels.
• Sprinkle with additional salt and pepper, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken:

• Use fresh, cold chicken for the best results.
• Double-coat the chicken in the cornstarch mixture for extra crunch.
• Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and make the chicken soggy.
• Maintain a consistent oil temperature throughout the frying process.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations:

• Spicy Cornstarch Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the dry mixture for a spicy kick.
• Lemon-Herb Cornstarch Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary to the dry mixture for a fresh and flavorful twist.
• Garlic-Parmesan Cornstarch Chicken: Add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the dry mixture for a cheesy and aromatic flavor.

What to Serve with Fried Cornstarch Chicken:

• Mashed potatoes
• Coleslaw
• Cornbread
• Biscuits
• Gravy

End Result:

With this simple yet effective technique, you can create fried chicken that is irresistibly crispy on the outside and juicy and tender on the inside. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a special meal, fried chicken with cornstarch is guaranteed to impress your loved ones.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use cornstarch instead of flour to bread chicken?
A: Yes, cornstarch can be used as a substitute for flour in breading chicken. It creates a lighter and crispier crust than flour.

Q: How long should I fry the chicken?
A: The frying time depends on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: What is the best way to reheat fried chicken?
A: To reheat fried chicken, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.