Crispy Fried Chicken

Total Time

Prep: 15 min. Cook: 15 min./batch

Makes

12 servings

Updated: Sep. 06, 2023
If you've wanted to learn how to make crispy fried chicken, this is the recipe for you. Always a picnic favorite, this deep-fried chicken recipe is delicious either hot or cold. Kids call it my Kentucky Fried Chicken! —Jeanne Schnitzler, Lima, Montana

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
  • 2 tablespoons garlic salt
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 3 teaspoons pepper, divided
  • 2-1/2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1-1/2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 broiler/fryer chickens (3-1/2 to 4 pounds each), cut up
  • Oil for deep-fat frying

Directions

  1. In a large shallow dish, combine 2-2/3 cups flour, garlic salt, paprika, 2-1/2 teaspoons pepper and poultry seasoning. In another shallow dish, beat eggs and 1-1/2 cups water; add salt and the remaining 1-1/3 cups flour and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Dip chicken in egg mixture, then place in flour mixture, a few pieces at a time. Turn to coat.
  2. In a deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry chicken, several pieces at a time, until chicken is golden brown and juices run clear, 7-8 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.
Crispy Fried Chicken Tips

What oil should you use for frying?

The best oils for frying are neutral ones like canola, vegetable and peanut oil, because they have higher smoke points that make them ideal for frying chicken and other foods.

Can you soak chicken in milk before frying?

Yes, you can soak the chicken in milk before frying, like we do in our best-ever fried chicken recipe. Buttermilk is also a solid option for marinating because the acid helps break down the protein, creating tender, moist and juicy meat, like we do in our picnic fried chicken recipe.

How long does chicken take to fry?

In most fried chicken recipes, chicken should be fried for about 7 to 8 minutes per side. However, keep in mind that pieces can vary in size and thickness. The chicken is fully cooked when the thickest part of the meat registers at 165° and the skin is crispy and dark golden-brown in color.

Nutrition Facts

5 ounces cooked chicken: 543 calories, 33g fat (7g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 798mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.