Deep-fried chicken is a beloved comfort food that is enjoyed all around the world. Its crispy, flavourful coating and juicy, tender meat make it a favourite for many. If you’re looking for the best deep-fried chicken recipe, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making the most delicious, crispy, and juicy deep-fried chicken that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
A lot of people love fried chicken because it’s tasty, juicy, and crispy. But it can be scary to fry chicken at home, especially when you don’t know how long to fry it for. Since I love good home cooking and have fried a lot of chicken, let me tell you how long it takes to fry chicken in a deep fryer.
What Factors Determine Fried Chicken Cook Times?
There are a few key factors that impact how long it takes to fry chicken:
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Type and size of chicken pieces – Smaller pieces like chicken tenders or wings take less time than larger pieces like breasts or thighs, Bone-in pieces also take longer than boneless,
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How hot the oil is—The chicken will cook faster if the oil is hot. Ideal frying temperature is 350-375°F.
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Thickness of batter or breading – The thicker the coating, the longer the cook time since the heat needs to penetrate the coating to cook the chicken.
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Amount of chicken – Frying multiple pieces at once cools the oil slightly, increasing cook time. Fry in batches to maintain oil temp.
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Type of fryer: Deep fryers with more wattage heat oil more quickly than those with less wattage.
Now let’s look at specific frying times based on these factors.
Recommended Fried Chicken Cook Times
For boneless, skinless chicken pieces:
- Chicken tenders or nuggets – 2-3 minutes
- Chicken breasts, pounded thin – 3-4 minutes
- Chicken breast chunks or fingers – 4-5 minutes
For bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces:
- Wings – 8-10 minutes
- Drumsticks – 12-15 minutes
- Thighs – 14-18 minutes
- Breasts – 15-18 minutes
These times are for cooking boneless or bone-in chicken breaded with a light breading or flour coating. The cook time would be a minute or two longer for a thicker batter coating.
It is important to cook chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to keep it safe. If the chicken isn’t fully cooked when the first cooking time is up, fry it for another two to three minutes.
Tips for Frying Chicken Like a Pro
Frying up crispy, juicy chicken might seem tricky, but just follow these tips and you’ll be a fried chicken pro in no time:
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Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature. This prevents overheating and ensures proper cooking.
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Don’t crowd the fryer. Fry chicken in batches of 4-6 pieces max to maintain oil temp.
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Let it rest. After frying, let chicken drain on a wire rack for 5 minutes. This helps keep the coating crispy.
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Check for doneness. Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F internally.
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Keep it hot. Keep fried chicken warm in a 200°F oven while frying additional batches.
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Change the oil. Discard and replace frying oil after 3-4 uses as it breaks down and makes chicken greasy.
Common Fried Chicken Questions
Here are answers to some other common questions about frying chicken:
How long does it take to fry chicken legs and thighs?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks take 12-15 minutes to fry since they are thicker. Monitor temperature until 165°F.
What oil is best for frying chicken?
Peanut, vegetable, canola, and soybean oil are all good choices with high smoke points. Avoid olive oil as it can burn.
How long does fried chicken last in the fridge?
Properly stored fried chicken lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat in a 350° oven until hot and crispy.
Can you refry leftover fried chicken?
Yes, leftover fried chicken can be refried but only once. Refrying more than once makes it too greasy.
How can I tell if oil is hot enough for frying chicken?
Use a deep fry thermometer for accuracy. Or insert a small bread cube – if it sizzles and turns golden in 60 seconds, oil is ready.
The Satisfaction of Perfectly Fried Chicken
The Origins of Deep-fried Chicken
It is thought that deep-fried chicken first appeared in the southern United States, specifically in Georgia, through African people who were brought to the country due to the slave trade. People from many places around the world, like West Africa, Scotland, and Korea, have had their own versions of deep-fried chicken for a long time. West Africans, for example, make a dish called “akara” by deep-frying black-eyed peas, onions, and spices. Scottish settlers introduced the practice of deep-frying chicken in fat, which they dubbed “chicken fried steak,” to the southern United States. Additionally, deep-fried chicken has gained popularity in Korea, where it is served at numerous restaurants.
What Kind of Oil is Best for Deep Frying Chicken?
Palm oil also lasts quite a long time and can be recycled after being used for cooking. You just need to let the oil cool down completely, strain it, and then put it back in a bowl to store it. When it is past its prime, you can safely dispose of your cooking oil by following these guidelines.
A setting of 180 degrees Celsius is ideal for frying chicken. Even so, it is typical for the temperature of the oil to change while heating. Your chicken should cook perfectly as long as your oil is between 150 and 180 degrees Celsius.
How long does it take to deep fry chicken legs at 350 degrees?
FAQ
How long does it take for chicken to get done in a deep fryer?
The cooking time for deep frying chicken breasts typically ranges from 12 to 15 minutes. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
How long to deep fry chicken in 350 oil?
Heat the oil to 350 degrees F in a deep fryer and drop the chicken pieces in, one at a time with tongs careful not to splash hot oil. Fry the chicken for 12 to 15 minutes, until it is golden brown and cooked through.