Introduction
Texas Fried Chicken is a classic dish that brings families together with its crispy skin and juicy meat. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re having a family dinner or a backyard barbecue. This recipe is easy to follow, and soon you’ll be serving up delicious fried chicken that everyone will love!
Why make this recipe
Making Texas Fried Chicken is simple and rewarding. The combination of juicy chicken and crispy coating will impress your friends and family. It’s a dish that feels special, yet can be made at home without too much fuss. Once you try this recipe, it might become a regular in your kitchen!
How to make Texas Fried Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup(s) buttermilk
- 1 – egg, beaten
- 1 cup(s) flour or Panko bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoon(s) garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon(s) paprika
- 1 teaspoon(s) ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon(s) poultry seasoning
- 1 – (4-5 pound) chicken, cut up
- 3 cup(s) vegetable oil
- 1/2 stick(s) butter
- 2 quart(s) cold water
- 1/2 cup(s) Kosher salt
Directions:
- To make the brine: Stir Kosher salt into water until dissolved. Place chicken parts in a nonreactive bowl or pot; add enough brine to cover completely. Refrigerate up to 8 hours. Drain the brined chicken and rinse out the bowl it was in.
- Return the chicken to the bowl. Add beaten egg to the buttermilk. Pour buttermilk over chicken. Cover and refrigerate for another four hours.
- Meanwhile, prepare the oil for frying by putting oil and butter in a pan (I prefer a deep fryer). Cook over low heat for 30 minutes, skimming as needed until the butter ceases to foam. Just before frying, increase the temperature to medium-high.
- In another bowl, mix all dry ingredients.
- Roll chicken in dry ingredients. Begin to fry. Do not overcrowd the pan or the cooking oil will cool.
- Using tongs, slip some of the chicken pieces, skin side down, into the heated fat until chicken is golden brown. Drain on a wire rack or crumpled paper towels and serve.
How to serve Texas Fried Chicken
Serve your Texas Fried Chicken hot and crispy! It goes great with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. Don’t forget some tasty dipping sauces, like ranch or honey mustard!
How to store Texas Fried Chicken
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you want to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven to regain that crispy texture.
Tips to make Texas Fried Chicken
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to get a nice crispy coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; this helps keep the oil temperature steady.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavor.
Variation (if any)
You can spice things up by adding your favorite hot seasoning to the flour mix! Consider trying a bit of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
FAQs
-
Can I use chicken pieces with skin on or off?
Yes, this recipe is great for skin-on or skinless chicken pieces. -
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. -
Can I use an air fryer instead of frying in oil?
Yes, you can! Cook in the air fryer for a healthier option, though the texture may be slightly different.