Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe
If you crave that unbeatable, golden, crunchy, and juicy delight that only homemade fried chicken can deliver, then you are going to fall head over heels for Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe. This classic version channels all the love and wisdom from generations past, creating chicken pieces with a perfectly seasoned, extra-crispy crust and tender, flavorful meat on the inside. Whether it’s for Sunday dinner, a family gathering, or whenever your comfort food radar goes off, this recipe is a genuine crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a crucial part, whether it is building the crispy, flakey crust, infusing deep savory flavor, or making the chicken melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix): These cuts are juicy and flavorful, perfect for frying and ensuring a moist bite every time.
- Garlic powder (2 teaspoons): Adds a warm, aromatic base flavor that complements the meat.
- Seasoned salt (1 ½ teaspoons): Enhances overall taste with a subtle blend of spices and saltiness.
- Black pepper (1 ½ teaspoons): Gives a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle sweetness and richness that balances the spices.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The foundation for that legendary crispy coating.
- Baking powder (2 ¼ teaspoons): Helps make the crust extra crunchy and airy.
- Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Works in tandem with baking powder for perfect texture.
- Water (1 ½ cups or as needed): To create a batter that clings just right to the chicken.
- Kosher salt (to taste): The essential finishing touch to bring out all the flavors.
- Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point to achieve that flawless golden crust.
How to Make Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken pieces under cold water and patting them dry thoroughly. Removing moisture is key to helping the coating stick beautifully and ensuring crispiness. Once dry, set the chicken aside while you prepare your seasoning and batter.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Mix garlic powder, seasoned salt, black pepper, and onion powder in a small bowl. Rub this spice blend all over the chicken pieces generously. This step infuses the meat with layers of flavor that penetrate through the crispy crust for every single bite.
Step 3: Make the Coating
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of kosher salt. Slowly whisk in the water to make a batter that is thick enough to cling to the chicken but still fluid. This batter is the secret behind that signature crunchy shell in Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the batter, making sure it’s fully covered. Then, for added crunch, you can lightly dredge the battered chicken again in plain flour if you like it extra crispy. This double layer of coating adds irresistible texture.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to about 350°F (175°C). Gently place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
How to Serve Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few sprigs of thyme over the finished chicken adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this crispy delight with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery coleslaw, cornbread, or simple green beans. Each side complements the crunchy chicken without overpowering its bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken pieces in a rustic wooden basket lined with parchment paper or stack them attractively on a large platter surrounded by lemon wedges for a zesty brightness that guests can squeeze on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Proper storage keeps the chicken tender and ensures flavors remain just as bold when you reheat it.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover fried chicken by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, letting you enjoy this comfort classic whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven set to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method brings back the crunch without drying out the juicy meat inside like microwaving sometimes does.
FAQs
Can I use skinless chicken for Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe?
While skin-on chicken is preferred for that perfect crispy exterior, you can use skinless pieces. Just be aware the coating won’t cling quite as well, and the texture may be slightly less crispy.
What oil is best for frying the chicken?
Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best for frying because they allow the chicken to cook evenly and get golden without burning.
Is it necessary to use both baking powder and baking soda?
Yes, they work together to produce a light and crunchy crust. Baking powder creates air bubbles for crispiness while baking soda helps achieve a beautiful golden color.
Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in buttermilk or a seasoned brine for a few hours before seasoning tends to result in even juicier and more flavorful chicken.
How do I know when the fried chicken is fully cooked?
The safest method is to check that the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer, ensuring juicy and safe-to-eat chicken every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe. It’s not just about the food but the memories and comfort associated with every crunchy bite. I hope you try this recipe and discover how easy it is to bring a golden, crispy masterpiece to your own dinner table. Once you do, it might just become your family’s favorite too!
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Grandma’s Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Grandma’s Fried Chicken is a classic, crispy, and flavorful dish featuring juicy pieces of chicken seasoned with a blend of spices, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, and deep-fried to golden perfection. This timeless recipe delivers a delicious Southern-inspired comfort food experience perfect for family meals or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 8 pieces chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix of both)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
Breading
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
Wet Mixture
- 1 ½ cups water (or as needed)
Frying
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken pieces. Season the chicken evenly with kosher salt, garlic powder, seasoned salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Make sure every piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Mix the dry coating: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Stir well to evenly distribute the leavening agents and flour.
- Prepare the batter: Gradually add the water to the dry flour mixture, stirring continuously until you achieve a smooth, thick batter. Adjust the water as needed to get the right consistency for coating the chicken.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the batter, making sure it is fully coated with the flour mixture. Allow any excess batter to drip off.
- Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to cover about half of the chicken pieces when placed inside. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), ideal for deep frying.
- Fry the chicken: Carefully place the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry each piece for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and serve: Remove the chicken pieces from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure crispy, juicy chicken.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference; add cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to maintain oil temperature and prevent soggy coating.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven to retain crispiness instead of microwaving.
- Vegetable or canola oil is preferred due to their high smoke points suitable for frying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
