How To Make Fried Chicken With Cornstarch – A Foolproof Guide To Crispy Perfection!

Craving crispy, golden-brown fried chicken without the mess and hassle? Look no further than cornstarch! This versatile ingredient transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary delight, delivering a satisfying crunch and delectable flavor. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the secrets of how to fried chicken with cornstarch, ensuring you achieve mouthwatering results every time.

Benefits of Using Cornstarch for Frying Chicken

• Crispy Exterior: Cornstarch creates a remarkably crispy crust that holds its crunch even after cooling.
• Golden-Brown Color: The cornstarch helps the chicken develop a beautiful golden-brown color, adding to its visual appeal.
• Moisture Retention: Despite its crispy exterior, cornstarch-fried chicken retains its moisture, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
• Gluten-Free: Cornstarch is a naturally gluten-free ingredient, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment:

• Dutch oven or deep fryer
• Candy thermometer
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
• In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk.

2. Dredge the Chicken:

• Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk and then roll it in the seasoned flour mixture.
• Shake off any excess flour and set the chicken aside on a wire rack.

3. Heat the Oil:

• Fill a Dutch oven or deep fryer with vegetable oil to a depth of 2-3 inches.
• Heat the oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit using a candy thermometer.

4. Fry the Chicken:

• Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil.
• Fry for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden-brown and cooked through.
• Use tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Use cold chicken: Cold chicken helps the coating adhere better and prevents the chicken from overcooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: Frying too many pieces of chicken at once will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
• Monitor the oil temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy chicken. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the oil stays at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour mixture.
• Herbed Fried Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour mixture.
• Honey Garlic Fried Chicken: Brush the fried chicken with a mixture of honey and garlic powder for a sweet and savory flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the fried chicken with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard.
• Pair the chicken with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a green salad.
• Enjoy the fried chicken as a main course or as part of a buffet spread.

FAQ

1. Can I use cornstarch alone for frying chicken?

Yes, but using a combination of cornstarch and flour results in a crispier and more flavorful crust.

2. How long can I store fried chicken with cornstarch?

Store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Can I reheat fried chicken with cornstarch?

Yes, you can reheat the chicken in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.