From time immemorial, fried chicken has lived in the hearts of many as a beloved comfort food. Originating from the Southern United States and finding its way to dining tables worldwide, it’s revered for its crispy exterior and succulent, flavorful interior. How do we achieve this blissful balance of textures and flavors in a homemade version? Well, let’s delve into one of the best recipes you can try at home, courtesy of the esteemed culinary platform, Bon Appétit.
The secret to a perfect fried chicken
The secret to the best fried chicken lies in its preparation. The Bon Appétit recipe suggests marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight, ensuring the meat is tender while adding an extra layer of flavor. Adding a bit of kosher salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper into the mix will give your chicken that irresistible warmth and spice. Remember that the longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
As for the flour mixture, an unexpected ingredient makes all the difference – cornstarch. Mixed along with all-purpose flour, it gives your fried chicken an enviable crunch. Spice it up with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for a burst of flavors.
Acing the frying process
Once your chicken is thoroughly marinated and perfectly coated in the flour mixture, it’s time for frying. Use a neutral oil like vegetable oil, and ensure you maintain the right temperature. The recipe suggests maintaining an oil temperature of 350°F. The chicken pieces should be fried until they attain a deep golden brown color, which usually takes about 10–16 minutes, depending on the size and type. Remember to flip them often for even cooking.
An important note to keep in mind, refrain from overcrowding your skillet. Doing so will drop the oil temperature, leading to less crispy results. Therefore, you might need to work in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
Ensuring food safety
As delicious as fried chicken is, food safety is of paramount importance when handling raw poultry. You should always use a meat thermometer to ensure that your fried chicken has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F – the recommended safe minimum internal temperature by the USDA for cooked chicken.
With the current global concern for hygiene and food safety, it is essential to ensure every bite you take is not only delicious but safe.
You’ve now learned how to make the perfect homemade fried chicken. With its crispy exterior giving way to tender, flavorful meat inside, this classic dish is indeed a testament to the beauty of simplicity in the culinary world. Whether on a bustling Sunday dinner table or at a quiet weekday night in, this fried chicken recipe adds a touch of comfort and warmth to any meal.
So, why wait? Get your apron on and try this recipe out. You’ll find that the few hours of marinating and the careful attention to temperature result in a dish that is worth every effort. Enjoy the process as much as the result and don’t forget to share this savory delight with your loved ones. The next time you crave that perfect fried chicken, you’ll know exactly what to do!
Kate Robinson is a culinary writer and food critic with a deep passion for gastronomy and a keen palate that appreciates flavors from around the world. At 31 years old, Kate’s background is as rich and diverse as her taste in food. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from the Culinary Institute of America, she has worked in various roles within the food industry, from a line cook in bustling New York City restaurants to a food stylist for culinary magazines.
Her transition into writing was driven by a desire to share her love for food and cooking with a wider audience. Now, as a prominent contributor to a leading online food and gastronomy news platform, Kate explores a wide array of topics, including restaurant reviews, recipe development, and the latest trends in food and dining.
Kate’s writing is distinguished by her ability to transport readers to the heart of the dining experience, whether she’s describing the subtle notes of a rare wine or the vibrant atmosphere of a street food market in Southeast Asia. Her reviews are honest and insightful, offering readers a comprehensive guide to the world’s culinary delights.
Beyond reviews, Kate is passionate about sustainable eating practices and often features articles on farm-to-table dining, organic farming, and ethical food sourcing. Her features on international cuisines and culinary traditions aim not only to educate her audience but also to inspire them to explore new flavors and cooking techniques.
Kate’s engaging writing style, combined with her extensive knowledge of the culinary world, has made her a favorite among food lovers. Whether her readers are experienced chefs or home cooks looking to broaden their culinary horizons, Kate provides valuable insights and inspiration to elevate their food experiences.
In addition to her writing, Kate regularly hosts online cooking classes and workshops, where she shares her expertise and enthusiasm for cooking with participants eager to learn. Her commitment to exploring and celebrating the world of food has established her as a respected voice in the gastronomy category, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the art and culture of food.
