Can You Use Tapioca Flour To Fry Chicken? Here’s The Surprising Answer!
What To Know
- Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or paprika to the tapioca flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice cook, give tapioca flour a try and experience the delicious results for yourself.
- Tapioca flour is lower in calories and carbohydrates than wheat flour, but it is not necessarily healthier as it is a refined starch.
If you’re looking for a crispy, golden-brown fried chicken that’s also gluten-free, tapioca flour is an excellent option. This versatile starch can be used to create a delicious and crunchy coating that will rival any traditional wheat flour-based fried chicken. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of using tapioca flour for frying chicken, provide detailed instructions on how to prepare and fry it, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Benefits of Using Tapioca Flour for Frying Chicken
- Gluten-free: Tapioca flour is naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
- Crispy texture: Tapioca flour creates a crispy and airy coating that will stay crunchy for hours.
- Versatile: Tapioca flour can be used in various dishes, including fried chicken, tempura, and other fried foods.
- Easy to use: Tapioca flour is easy to work with and creates a batter that adheres well to chicken.
How to Fry Chicken with Tapioca Flour
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup tapioca flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the flour: In a shallow bowl, combine the tapioca flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip the chicken in buttermilk: Dip the chicken pieces into the buttermilk and allow them to soak for 5-10 minutes.
4. Coat the chicken in flour: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge it in the seasoned tapioca flour. Shake off any excess flour.
5. Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain and serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Crispy Fried Chicken
- Use cold buttermilk and oil to create a crispier coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet or fryer.
- Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Variations on Tapioca-Fried Chicken
- Spicy: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or paprika to the tapioca flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed: Incorporate dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the flour mixture for added flavor.
- Tempura: Use a lighter batter made with tapioca flour, water, and ice for a tempura-style fried chicken.
- Korean: Combine tapioca flour with gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) for a sweet and spicy Korean-style fried chicken.
What to Serve with Tapioca-Fried Chicken
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for fried chicken.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a tangy and crunchy contrast to the fried chicken.
- Gravy: A rich and flavorful gravy can elevate the fried chicken to a whole new level.
- Biscuits: Buttermilk biscuits are a Southern staple that complements fried chicken perfectly.
The Verdict: Yes, You Can Use Tapioca Flour to Fry Chicken
Absolutely, you can use tapioca flour to fry chicken. It produces a crispy, gluten-free coating that will satisfy your fried chicken cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice cook, give tapioca flour a try and experience the delicious results for yourself.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I use tapioca flour for other fried foods?
A: Yes, tapioca flour can be used for frying various foods, including vegetables, seafood, and tofu.
Q: Is tapioca flour healthier than wheat flour?
A: Tapioca flour is lower in calories and carbohydrates than wheat flour, but it is not necessarily healthier as it is a refined starch.
Q: How can I make the fried chicken extra crispy?
A: Double-coating the chicken in tapioca flour and frying it twice will create an extra crispy coating.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for tapioca flour?
A: Arrowroot flour or potato starch can be used as substitutes for tapioca flour.
Q: Can I freeze tapioca-fried chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze tapioca-fried chicken. Let it cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.