Gram's Fried Chicken
As a boy, I wolfed down my grandmother's fried chicken. I never knew how she made it, but my recipe using potato flakes is crispy close. —David Nelson, Lincolnton, North Carolina
As a boy, I wolfed down my grandmother's fried chicken. I never knew how she made it, but my recipe using potato flakes is crispy close. —David Nelson, Lincolnton, North Carolina
- Carbohydrate 26.1622241695892 g
- Cholesterol 105.75 mg
- Fat 23.6285783333569 g
- Fiber 2.22544163039568 g
- Protein 6.01531250068615 g
- Saturated Fat 2.51513333333643 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (150g)
- Sodium 66.808333334322 mg
- Sugar 23.9367825391935 g
- Trans Fat 1.35651833334275 g
- Calories 335 calories
Step-by-step
- In a shallow bowl, whisk egg and milk.
- In another shallow bowl, toss potato flakes with seasonings. Remove half of the mixture and reserve (for a second coat of breading).
- Pound chicken with a meat mallet to 1/2-in. thickness.
- Dip chicken in egg mixture, then in potato mixture, patting to help coating adhere.
- Arrange chicken in an even layer on a large plate.
- Cover and refrigerate chicken and remaining egg mixture 1 hour.
- Discard remaining used potato mixture.
- In a 12-in. cast-iron or other deep skillet, heat 1/2 in. of oil over medium heat to 350 degrees.
- For the second coat of breading, dip chicken in remaining egg mixture, then in unused potato mixture; pat to coat.
- Fry chicken 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and chicken is no longer pink.
- Drain on paper towels.
Gram's Famous Fried Chicken: A Crispy, Close-to-Grandma's Recipe
The aroma of fried chicken. It's a scent that instantly transports me back to my childhood, to Sunday dinners at Grandma's house. The crispy, golden-brown skin, the juicy, tender meat… it was pure perfection. I've always cherished those memories, and the taste of her fried chicken has remained a benchmark for me, a standard against which I judge all other fried chicken. I've tried countless recipes over the years, searching for that perfect balance of crunch and flavor, that magic touch that only Grandma seemed to possess.
Now, I’m not claiming to have replicated Grandma’s exact recipe—that secret remains locked away in the annals of family history. However, after years of experimentation, I’ve finally landed on a recipe that comes remarkably close. The key, I discovered, lies in using mashed potato flakes. This might sound unconventional, but trust me, the potato flakes provide a unique lightness and crispiness that elevate this fried chicken above the ordinary. The flakes help create a wonderfully textured crust, absorbing the egg wash beautifully and resulting in a shatteringly crisp exterior that gives way to perfectly moist and flavorful chicken on the inside. It's a surprisingly simple technique, yet the results are truly extraordinary.
This recipe isn't just about replicating a nostalgic flavor; it's about sharing the joy of cooking and creating lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to master. It's perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or simply a comforting treat for yourself on a busy weeknight. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the seasonings to your liking, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that to suit your personal preferences. Experiment with different herbs and spices, and let your creativity run wild! Each bite is a celebration of flavor, texture, and the love that goes into making a truly memorable meal. This fried chicken recipe isn’t just a dish; it's an experience, a taste of home, and a legacy passed down through generations.
Beyond the deliciousness, this recipe is also about efficiency. The double-dipping technique – first coating the chicken, refrigerating, then applying a second coat – is crucial. This allows the breading to fully adhere to the chicken, ensuring maximum crispiness and preventing the coating from falling off during frying. It's a simple extra step that makes all the difference in the world. And let's be honest, who doesn't love a perfectly crispy piece of fried chicken?
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. This fried chicken is more than just a meal; it's a journey back to simpler times, a reminder of the comfort and joy that food can bring. I hope you savor each bite as much as I do.
Remember to adjust seasoning to your taste. Experiment and have fun creating your own variation of this delicious recipe!
