Can You Use Bread Flour On Fried Chicken? The Answer Is Blowing In The Wind!

Absolutely! Bread flour, with its high protein content, is an excellent choice for creating a crispy, flavorful coating on your fried chicken. Here’s why:

The Benefits of Bread Flour for Fried Chicken

1. High Protein Content

Bread flour contains a higher percentage of protein than all-purpose flour, which translates to more gluten development. When the flour is mixed with water and then fried, the gluten proteins form a strong network that traps air, resulting in a crispy, airy crust.

2. Stronger Crust

The high gluten content also creates a stronger crust that can withstand the heat of the fryer without breaking down. This prevents the chicken from becoming soggy and ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite.

3. Better Browning

Bread flour’s higher protein content also promotes better browning. The proteins react with the sugars in the flour to create a golden-brown color that is both visually appealing and flavorful.

How to Use Bread Flour for Fried Chicken

To use bread flour for fried chicken, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken

Prepare your chicken by cutting it into desired pieces and seasoning it with salt and pepper.

2. Create the Bread Flour Mixture

In a shallow bowl, combine bread flour, salt, and any other desired seasonings (such as paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper).

3. Dredge the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the bread flour mixture, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour.

4. Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully add the chicken pieces and fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Drain and Serve

Remove the chicken from the fryer and drain it on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Other Flour Options for Fried Chicken

While bread flour is a great choice for fried chicken, you can also use other flours, such as:

1. All-Purpose Flour

All-purpose flour has a lower protein content than bread flour, resulting in a less crispy crust. However, it is still a good option for fried chicken and will produce a more tender crust.

2. Self-Rising Flour

Self-rising flour contains baking powder and salt, which makes it a convenient option for fried chicken. It will produce a slightly lighter crust than bread flour.

3. Gluten-Free Flour

Gluten-free flours, such as almond flour or coconut flour, can be used to make fried chicken for those with gluten intolerance. However, they will not produce the same crispy crust as bread flour.

Takeaways: Embracing the Crispy Delight

Whether you choose bread flour or another flour option, using the right flour for fried chicken is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy crust. Experiment with different flours and seasonings to find the combination that satisfies your taste buds.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I use bread flour for fried chicken without buttermilk?
A: Yes, you can use bread flour for fried chicken without buttermilk. Simply substitute the buttermilk with regular milk or water.

Q: How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: Can I freeze fried chicken made with bread flour?
A: Yes, you can freeze fried chicken made with bread flour. Let the chicken cool completely before freezing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.