Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, fun, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Fried Chicken On The Stick recipe is a game-changer, offering a playful twist on a beloved classic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun party appetizer, or even a satisfying lunch, these crispy, juicy chicken skewers are sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 12-15 wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and ensure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. This step is crucial for tender and juicy chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. One by one, dredge each chicken cube in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the breaded chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers. Leave a small space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken skewers to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the skewers from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy! These delicious chicken skewers are amazing on their own or served with your favorite dipping sauce – honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing all work wonderfully.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: Checking the internal temperature ensures the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying helps it retain its juiciness.
- Soak the skewers: Soaking the skewers prevents them from burning during frying.
Variations:
- Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder to the flour mixture for extra heat.
- Herby: Add some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the buttermilk marinade for a flavorful twist.
- Sweet and Spicy: Toss the cooked chicken skewers in a sweet and spicy glaze after frying.
Nutritional Information (per skewer, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
This Fried Chicken On The Stick recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the fun presentation makes it ideal for gatherings. Try this delicious dish today and elevate your next meal!