— SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN —
TRUE SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN
Fried chicken is probably the first dish one thinks of when asked to name Southern dishes. Number two is “ Boiled Shrimp” It ranks right up there with cornbread, greens, and grits. This is a basic Southern fried chicken recipe, and it is easy and delicious. Serve this crispy fried chicken with mashed potatoes and coleslaw, along with steamed broccoli or another favorite side dish. Use bone-in chicken pieces in this recipe. For boneless chicken breasts or cutlets, take a look at this recipe.
INGREDIENTS
4 pounds chicken pieces
1 1/2 cups milk
2 large eggs
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons salt
2 teaspoons pepper
3 cups vegetable oil
Kosher salt
STEPS TO MAKE IT
Preheat the oven to 200 F and place a rack in a large baking pan. ( FOR WARMING SUBSEQUENT BATCHES)
Combine milk and eggs in a bowl; whisk to blend well.
In a large heavy-duty resealable plastic food storage bag, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
Dip a chicken piece in the milk mixture; let excess drip off into the bowl.
Put a few chicken pieces in the food storage bag and shake lightly to coat thoroughly.
Remove to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken pieces.
Heat oil in a deep, heavy skillet to 350 F.
Fry the chicken, a few pieces at a time, for about 10 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and thoroughly cooked.
Chicken breasts will take a little less time than other pieces.
Pierce with a fork to see if juices run clear to check for doneness, or use an instant-read thermometer. The minimum safe temperature for chicken is 165 F (74 C).
With a slotted spoon, move to paper towels to drain; sprinkle with salt.
Transfer the drained chicken to the prepared pan with rack. Move the chicken to the oven to keep warm while frying subsequent batches.
OPTIONS:
- Replace the milk with evaporated milk or buttermilk.
- Replace the salt and pepper with a seasoned salt blend.
- Add about 1/2 cup of fine dry breadcrumbs to the flour mixture.
08/07/2021 aljacobsladder.com