👨‍🍳 Crispy Fried Chicken Breast Recipe: Easy & Delicious

Have you ever asked why some crispy chicken breast recipes end up soggy and greasy? Meanwhile, other times they give you the perfect crunch and juicy, tender meat? If you’re seeking the best homemade fried chicken breast, this guide is for you. It comes with simple steps and pro tips for that ideal easy fried chicken breast. Make each bite crisp and full of flavor.

Key Takeaways

• Yield: 6 servings of perfectly fried chicken breast
• Brine the chicken breast for 2-3 hours or overnight for the best results
• Fry at 350°F for 8-12 minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 165°F
• The mix of flour, cornstarch, and baking powder creates a crispy coating
• Nutrition per serving: 515 calories, 108g of carbs, 11g of protein, and 6g of fat

Introduction to Crispy Fried Chicken Breast

Fried chicken is well-loved, and getting the perfect breast requires knowing the right ways. This fried chicken breast introductory guide helps you make top-notch fried chicken at home. By preparing, seasoning, and cooking your chicken the right way, you’ll get crispy, juicy results.

• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 43 minutes
• Servings: 4

If you’re keen on classic buttermilk or want to try different breadcrumbs and spices, this guide is for you. It will lead even beginners to a perfect, crunchy outcome. To help kick off your cooking adventure, here are the nutritional facts and ratings for a well-loved recipe:

This overview not only highlights the dish’s good for you aspects but also how much people like it. Following this guide guarantees a tasty and proud-worthy meal for you and your loved ones.

Ingredients You Will Need

To create a crispy fried chicken breast, start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need these items for a tasty meal. Here’s a list of what you will need:

• 6 boneless or bone-in chicken breasts
• 4 ⅓ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour for coating the chicken
• 3/4 cup of buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1.3 oz (1/3 cup) of cornstarch
• 1 tsp of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• 1 Tbsp paprika
• 1/2 Tbsp black pepper
• 1/2 Tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 6 cups of vegetable or canola oil for frying

For extra flavor, you will also need a few more items:

Choosing the Right Chicken Breast

When choosing chicken for frying, the type of chicken breast matters a lot. Knowing the difference between boneless and bone-in chicken breasts is important. It lets you pick the best one for your fried chicken.

Boneless vs. Bone-In

Boneless chicken breast is easy to cook and a lean choice. It cooks quickly. But, if you want juicier and tastier chicken, go for bone-in chicken breasts. The bone spreads heat evenly, enhancing flavor. Also, they’re usually cheaper because they’re less processed.

How to Cut Chicken into Cutlets

To ensure chicken cooks evenly and gets the most flavor, cut it into cutlets. Start with a boneless chicken breast on a board. Use a steady hand to slice it in half horizontally. This makes two thinner pieces. You can also use a meat mallet to pound them for the same thickness.

1. Place the boneless chicken breast on a cutting board.
2. Hold the chicken steady with one hand.
3. Slice horizontally with a sharp knife to create thinner pieces.
4. Optionally, pound the cutlets to an even thickness.

Getting the right type of chicken and preparing it well is key for great fried chicken. Your meal will be crispy, juicy, and full of flavor every time.

Preparing Your Chicken Breast

To make the perfect crispy fried chicken breast, you must prepare it right. This keeps it tender, juicy, and full of flavor. First, you should tenderize and then marinate the chicken. These steps are important for making the chicken taste and feel good.

Tenderizing Techniques

Making the chicken breast tender is crucial for good fried chicken. Here are some ways to do this:

• Pounding: Beat the chicken breast flat with a meat mallet to about 3/4″ thickness. This step softens the meat for better cooking.
• Brining: Soak the chicken in a saltwater solution for a while. This helps it keep moist when cooked.
• Using a Tenderizer: A meat tenderizer tool breaks down muscle fibers, making the chicken tender.

Marinating Process

Marinating is a big part of making tasty fried chicken breast. A good marinade does two things: it adds flavor and makes the meat tender. For example, a marinated chicken breast is prepared this way:

• Choose Your Base: Common options are buttermilk, yogurt, or a mix of oil and something acidic like lemon juice.
• Add Herbs and Spices: Create your flavor blend with garlic, paprika, pepper, and more as you like.
• Marinate Time: Let the chicken soak in the mix for at least an hour. For the best flavor, marinate it all night in the fridge.

In a survey with 821 votes, people rated this tenderizing and marinating method 4.42 out of 5. By following these steps, you’ll make chicken that’s not just tender but also very flavorful and perfect for frying.

Creating the Perfect Breading Mix

Getting the right crispy breading mix for your chicken means knowing your ingredients. A mix of flour and cornstarch adds a delicate, crunchy layer. Choosing the right spices raises your dish to a pro level.

Flour and Cornstarch Ratio

A blend of cornstarch and flour is great for a crunch. Use 1/4 cup of cornstarch for every cup of flour. This mix gives your chicken a crispy, golden crust.

Cook your chicken in oil at 350°F until it reaches a safe 165°F inside.

Seasonings and Spices

The best seasoning for chicken mixes many herbs and spices. For a KFC-style taste, use 11 spices like salt, basil, and pepper. Adding Buttermilk overnight helps the flavor soak in, making the chicken tender.

Choosing the right spices and following a good recipe is key for tasty, crunchy fried chicken.

Tips for a Light and Crispy Batter

Getting your fried chicken batter just right is crucial for a tasty and crispy dish. A good recipe for crispy chicken batter needs the right ingredients and methods. Here are some expert tips to achieve that perfect balance for a light and crispy coating.

It’s essential to mix the batter ingredients properly. Use a mix of 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1 cup cornstarch. This mix gives your batter its structure. Adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder makes it light. And for some extra zing, put in 3 to 5 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper.

Brining is also key. Mix the batter with 1 quart (4 cups) of cold water and let it sit for 60 minutes. Keep the batter cold in the fridge. This makes sure the chicken holds onto the batter well.

Keep the oil hot, between 300°F and 325°F when frying. Use 3 quarts (12 cups) of oil for deep-frying. Dry the chicken with paper towels first. This step makes the batter stick better.

Don’t fry too many pieces at once. This can lower the oil’s temperature and make the chicken greasy. Cooking in small batches ensures even and less oily results. Stick to this, and your chicken will be a hit.

Want extra crunch? Try frying the chicken twice. First, fry till nearly done, rest, then fry again at a higher heat. This method crisps it up perfectly. Let the chicken drain on a wire rack afterwards.

Have leftovers? No worries. They can keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Pop them in a hot oven for a few minutes to make them crispy again.

Follow these steps, and you’ll nail the perfect light batter for your crispy chicken. It’s a great recipe everyone will love.

Frying Techniques for Best Results

Frying chicken breast is an art that anyone can master. It involves several key steps to make sure your chicken is juicy and golden. It’s important to use the right oil temperature and cook for the right amount of time. This way, you get crispy chicken without it being overcooked.

Oil Temperature Recommendations

The best oil temperature for frying chicken breast is between 350°F and 375°F. This range helps the chicken get a crunchy outside while staying juicy inside. Always use a thermometer to keep an eye on the oil’s temperature.

When to Flip the Chicken

Turning your chicken at the right time is key to making sure it cooks evenly. It takes about 9-14 minutes to pan-fry chicken breast fully. Start by cooking on one side for 5-7 minutes. Then, turn it over and cook for 4-7 more minutes. Remember, it’s best to stop cooking when the chicken is just under 165°F. The heat will keep spreading a little even after you take it out of the oil.

1. Heat oil to 350°F – 375°F.
2. Place chicken in the pan, cook for 5-7 minutes.
3. Flip and cook for another 4-7 minutes.
4. Check internal temperature, making sure it gets close to 165°F.

Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with wonderfully fried chicken breast. It’ll be perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. For the best tenderness, remember to cut the chicken against the grain when it’s done.

Making Buttermilk Fried Chicken Breast

The secret to great buttermilk fried chicken is in how you marinate and bread it. By soaking the chicken in buttermilk, you not only make it tender but also give it a flavor that’s hard to beat.

First, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk mixed with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and salt. Let this sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours. This makes the meat soft and flavorful.

Now, let’s bread the chicken. Mix flour, baking powder, seasonings, and spices until chunky. Coating the chicken evenly with this mix will give it that perfect crisp.

For frying, use a deep pot and fill with oil about ¾-inch high. Once the oil reaches 350°F, add the chicken tenders. Fry until golden, which might take 6 minutes on each side. The temperature inside should hit 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.

Fry the chicken in batches if needed, to avoid overcrowding. This ensures each piece turns out crispy. You can enjoy it fresh or freeze it for up to three months for later use.

Spicy Fried Chicken Breast

Want a hot twist on classic fried chicken? This recipe mixes the right level of zest with a crispy crunch. The secret is to balance the marinade and the breading perfectly.

To kick off, soak the chicken in a blend of buttermilk and spices for at least 8 hours. This step makes the meat tender and full of flavor.

Next, prepare a flour mix seasoned with spices. You can tweak the heat level to your liking. Adding a bit of the buttermilk brine to the flour mix will enhance the crust.

Fry the chicken in oil at 325°F until it’s thoroughly cooked inside. This takes about 8-10 minutes per side and ensures a perfect meal.

Let the fried chicken rest on a rack to remove extra oil and stay crispy. Serve it hot, sprinkled with more spices, for an unbeatable flavor.

This recipe’s flexible spice levels suit all tastes, from mild to “SUPER spicy.” Choose your hot sauce and cayenne carefully to adjust flavors to your preference.

Southern Fried Chicken Breast

Step into the rich traditions of classic southern cooking with our fried chicken recipe. It brings together the perfect mix of crunch and taste. This dish needs exact methods and a mix of ingredients for an authentic flavor.

Begin by soaking your boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a brine. Let them sit for 30 minutes or more. This step makes the meat juicier. Use a brine of 1 tablespoon salt per cup of water for great seasoning.

Next, mix your breading. Combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 cups of flour for a crispy coating. Include 2 teaspoons of pepper and any other spices you like. This mix gives your chicken the traditional southern taste.

When it’s time to fry, warm up peanut oil to 350°F. Its high smoke point is perfect for frying. Each batch cooks in about 15 minutes. Make sure the chicken’s internal temperature is 165°F. Keep any extra chicken in the fridge for 3-5 days to stay safe.

Here’s a brief look at the nutrition in each serving:

This recipe is for 4 people and is perfect for those who love classic southern food. Make sure your chicken is crispy outside and tender inside. Serve a plate that feels like true southern hospitality.

Oven Fried Chicken Breast

Enjoy your favorite fried chicken but healthier with this baked recipe. Baking it keeps the flavors and crunch without extra oil. Let’s look at how to make this tasty dish.

• Ingredients:
  

  Ingredient	Amount
  Chicken breasts	2 lbs, cut into strips (about 3-4 breasts)
  Buttermilk (optional)	1 cup
  Butter	6 tbsp, melted
  Flour	¾ cup
  Panko breadcrumbs	½ cup
  Seasoning salt (Lawry’s brand)	1 tbsp
  Pepper	½ tsp
  Paprika	2 tsp

• Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into strips.
3. If you choose to use buttermilk, let the chicken sit in it for 30 minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, seasoning salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. First, dip each chicken strip in the melted butter. Then, coat it well with the flour mixture.
6. Put the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken hits 165°F.

This oven-baked fried chicken is a super healthy fried chicken alternative. Users love it, giving a 4.85 out of 5 rating based on 437 votes. You can be sure it’s a hit for your taste and your health.

To keep this crispy treat, store it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months. This way, you can have it on hand anytime.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast

Fried chicken lovers, meet your new favorite recipe. This air fryer method is healthier and uses less oil. But, it still gives you that crunchy, delicious taste. Let’s explore how to make this tasty dish in an air fryer. You’ll love the benefits it brings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation: Start with 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, around 1 1/2 pounds. Make sure they’re thawed if frozen.
2. Marination: Combine paprika, smoked paprika, garlic and onion powder, salt, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Let the chicken soak in this mix for up to 24 hours.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Heat it up to 415°F for the best cooking.
4. Breading: You can dip the chicken in breadcrumbs or use the classic egg and flour method for a crunchier finish.
5. Cooking: Place the chicken in the air fryer. Cook for about 10 minutes, or a bit longer for bigger pieces. Remember to flip them over halfway to cook evenly.
6. Temperature Check: Use a thermometer. Make sure the chicken’s internal temperature is 165°F.
7. Serving: Enjoy with your favorite sides, like salads, tacos, or noodles. Add dipping sauces for extra flavor, such as Gochujang, Yum Yum, or ranch.

Advantages of Using an Air Fryer

Using an air fryer for fried chicken has many upsides. It’s no wonder why people love this kitchen gadget.

• Healthier Option: Cooking in an air fryer means less oil, which cuts calories and fats.
• Efficiency: You can cook your chicken in less than 30 minutes, great for busy times.
• Economical: Using less oil and quicker cooking saves money.
• Enhanced Flavor: You can tailor your brining and seasoning to your liking, making it perfect for your taste.
• Convenience: Air fryers are easy to use and keep your kitchen cleaner compared to deep frying.

Adding the air fryer chicken recipe to your routine means enjoying a meal that’s fast, healthy, and yummy. Whether you like your chicken breaded or not, it will still be as crispy and juicy as you love.

Serving Suggestions

Enhancing the fried chicken experience involves pairing it with the right side dishes and dipping sauces. This combo not only makes the meal more tasty but also complete. Let’s find the perfect sides and sauces for your chicken feast.

Side Dishes that Complement Fried Chicken

Reports suggest there are dozens of side dishes that go great with fried chicken. Some top choices are:

• Bean dishes
• Okra
• Coleslaw
• Cherry tomatoes
• Mac and cheese
• Mexican street corn
• Potato recipes
• Collard greens
• Mashed potatoes
• Zucchini dishes
• Pasta salads
• Corn recipes
• Tomato-based sides
• Cornbread
• Black-eyed peas
• German potato salads
• Cucumber salads
• Stuffed tomatoes
• Vegetable salads with pesto
• Sweet potatoes
• Green beans

Fried chicken is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded meal, catering to various tastes and preferences.

Dipping Sauces

Every fried chicken meal needs the right dipping sauces. The ideal dips take the dish to a higher level.

• Honey Mustard
• Buffalo Sauce
• Ranch Dressing
• BBQ Sauce
• Blue Cheese Dressing
• Sweet and Sour Sauce
• Spicy Aioli

Think about these great sides and sauces when you’re serving fried chicken. They’ll make your meal taste even better.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your fried chicken taste great, you must cook it right. There are some common fried chicken mistakes you must know to avoid. Below, find helpful tips on how to fry chicken properly.

1. Skipping the Brine: Not soaking the chicken in brine for at least eight hours can lead to dry and flavorless meat.
2. Incorrect Oil Temperature: The oil must be at 360°F to start. It should stay between 300°F to 325°F while frying. This prevents a greasy and raw crust.
3. Improper Chicken Size: Too large a chicken means uneven cooking. Aim for a chicken weighing two and a half to three pounds.
4. Not Cutting Breasts Correctly: Always cut each breast in half across. This prevents the white meat from drying out and ensures even cooking.
5. Overcrowding the Pan: Cook chicken in batches for evenness. It also gives space for turning pieces in the pan.
6. Not Covering the Pan: A lid over the pan as you cook can help produce a crispy crust. It helps drain fat and moisture.
7. Skipping the Resting Period: Let the chicken rest on paper towels after it’s done. This helps the juices spread and allows the crust to cool for better flavor and texture.
8. Improper Breading: Ensure a consistent double-dip in breading. This keeps the chicken crisp and moist.
9. Ignoring Internal Temperature: The chicken must reach 165°F inside for it to be safe and tasty.
10. Not Using the Right Oil: Use oils like canola or peanut with high smoke points for frying.

By following these tips and avoiding mistakes, you will make delicious fried chicken. It will have a perfect golden crust and juicy, tender meat.

Achieving the Perfect Internal Temperature

Cooking fried chicken just right is vital for its safety and taste. Aim for the perfect fried chicken internal temp to ensure your meal is safe, juicy, and scrumptious.

The safe chicken cooking temperatures require hitting 165°F (74°C) inside. This makes sure harmful bacteria are killed, making your fried chicken safe to eat. Always use a good cooking thermometer for accuracy.

Maintain oil for frying between 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). This heat keeps the chicken crispy outside and juicy inside. Follow these tips for the best result:

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermostat to keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F continuously.
• Aim for 165°F Internal Temperature: Ensure the chicken breast reaches 165°F to guarantee it’s cooked through.
• Adjust Frying Times: Depending on the thickness and cut of the chicken, adjust frying times slightly for even cooking.

Stick to these safe chicken cooking temperatures, and your fried chicken will be safe, crispy, and tender.

Fried Chicken Breast Recipe

Get ready for a tasty meal with our step-by-step fried chicken recipe. It promises to be as good as what you get in a restaurant. Just follow these steps and use our tips for the perfect crispy, golden chicken.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut 4 chicken breasts horizontally or pound them thin. Then, brine them in saltwater for 15 minutes.
2. Mix the Breading: Combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and spices in a bowl for breading.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: Whisk eggs with buttermilk in another bowl for the egg wash.
4. Coat the Chicken: Bread each cutlet, dip it in the egg wash, then bread again for a double coating.
5. Heat the Oil: Fill a skillet with oil halfway and heat it to 350°F.
6. Fry the Chicken: Cook the cutlets for 3 to 5 minutes per side. They should be golden and fully cooked.
7. Make the Cream Gravy: Mix mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and mustard in a pan. Warm this sauce while the chicken rests.
8. Serve: Place the chicken on plates and pour cream gravy over them. Then, enjoy your meal.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F for great chicken.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the breading on the chicken set for a few minutes before frying.
• Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the skillet. This will make sure it cooks evenly.
• Keep Chicken Warm: Use the oven to keep the chicken hot until you’re ready to eat.
• Explore Seasonings: Try different spice mixes to change up the flavor.

These professional fried chicken tips and recipe are all you need. You will impress everyone with your delicious fried chicken.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Properly storing fried chicken leftovers and reheating them effectively ensures you maintain that delicious, crispy texture. Here is a detailed guide to make sure your leftover fried chicken stays delightful.

Leftover fried chicken can be refrigerated for three to four days or frozen for about four months. The “danger zone,” where bacteria grows the fastest, is between 40°F and 140°F. So, fried chicken should be fully cooked the first time and refrigerated quickly to avoid the danger zone.

Reheating crispy chicken is best done in the oven. Reheat at 400°F for 15 minutes, which keeps the skin crispy and the meat hot. An air fryer works well too; set it to 375°F for only four minutes, flipping the chicken once to ensure even cooking. For more info, check here.

When you reheat chicken, it should get to 120°F for the best taste. Safety guidelines say it should reach 165°F. Smaller pieces will heat quicker than larger ones.

Microwaving is an option for reheating, but it might make the chicken soggy. To microwave, do it in 30-second bursts with a paper towel. For better results, use the Food Network’s tips.

• Oven: Reheat at 400°F for 15 minutes.
• Stovetop: Cook on each side for 2-3 minutes at 300°F.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 2 minutes on each side.
• Toaster Oven: Heat at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.

When reheating, place the chicken in a single layer in the oven or air fryer. This helps keep it crispy. Don’t use foil, as it makes the skin soggy.

If you want more tips on reheating crispy chicken, look into different methods.

By following these steps, your leftover fried chicken can be just as tasty as the first serving!

Conclusion

We hope you’re excited to try making crispy fried chicken breasts at home after reading this guide. You now know how beating thin, boneless, skinless chicken is important for that crispy crust. And don’t forget to dredge with 3/4 cup of flour and eggs to get the perfect exterior.

This journey showed you various ways to make fried chicken, from Southern to buttermilk styles. Whichever flavor you go for, remember to use 1 tsp of Kosher salt, 1/2 tsp of pepper, and herbs. This mix brings out great taste and you can prep it in 5 minutes, ready to enjoy after 9 minutes of cooking.

Keeping the oil hot, between 350-375°F, and the chicken at 165°F inside is really important. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for 2-3 days or up to 4 days, as you like. We think this guide will help you make excellent fried chicken. So, try out the different recipes and have fun cooking!