Craving that crispy, juicy, irresistible fried chicken you get from Church's? Forget the drive-thru! This recipe lets you recreate that iconic flavor in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, and the result? A delicious, homemade meal the whole family will love. Get ready for a flavor explosion that'll have you saying "amen!" to this easy recipe. This is the perfect addition to your list of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals – yes, even fried chicken can be part of a balanced diet with mindful portions!
Ingredients:
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For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts – your choice!)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
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For the Brine (Optional, but highly recommended!):
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
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For the Dredging Station:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Brining (Optional, but recommended)
Brining is key to incredibly juicy chicken. Combine water, salt, and sugar in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Add chicken pieces and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step enhances the flavor and moisture of your chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Remove chicken from brine (if used) and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving that extra crispy skin. Season chicken generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 3: Set up your Dredging Station
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs. In a separate shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres well. Repeat the egg and flour process for double-coating, resulting in extra crispy goodness.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C). Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove chicken from oil and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite sides. Enjoy your homemade Church's-style fried chicken!
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend for ensuring perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let the chicken rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in extra tender meat.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture.
- Herb-infused Chicken: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the flour mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces and the amount of oil absorbed. For a general idea, a serving of fried chicken contains a significant amount of calories and fat. Consider serving with a side salad or vegetables to create a more balanced meal.
This recipe provides delicious, homemade fried chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant's. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes, perfect for satisfying those fried chicken cravings. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and the delicious results!