ADVERTISEMENT
## Instructions for Crispy Chicken
### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. **Pound the Chicken**: If you prefer a thinner, crispier coating, gently pound the chicken breasts using a meat mallet until they’re an even thickness, about 1 inch thick. If using thighs, you can skip this step.
2. **Season the Chicken**: In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this mixture over both sides of each chicken breast.
### Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station
1. **Flour Mixture**: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with dried thyme, if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. **Egg Wash**: In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. **Breadcrumb Mixture**: In a third shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal. Add a little more salt and pepper if desired.
### Step 3: Coat the Chicken
1. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated, then dip it into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
2. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Repeat for each chicken breast.
### Step 4: Fry the Chicken
1. In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot (you can test by adding a small breadcrumb to the oil — it should sizzle), carefully place the coated chicken into the skillet.
3. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
## Optional Side Dish: Crispy Potato Wedges
### Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
1. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into wedges or fries, depending on your preference.
2. Toss the potato pieces in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
### Step 2: Bake the Potatoes
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spread the potato wedges evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
### Step 3: Serve
Serve the crispy chicken alongside the golden potato wedges and a refreshing coleslaw for the ultimate meal. The juicy chicken paired with the crunchy fries and creamy slaw creates a combination of textures and flavors that will please your taste buds with every bite.
## Pro Tips for the Perfect Crispy Chicken
1. **Double Dipping**: For an extra-crispy crust, consider double-dipping your chicken. After the first coat of breadcrumbs, dip the chicken back in the egg wash and then coat it with breadcrumbs again.
2. **Temperature Control**: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature for frying (around 350°F or 175°C). If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the chicken cooks through; too cold, and the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
3. **Resting the Chicken**: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the coating to set and stay crispy.
4. **Seasoning**: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture to match your preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can spice things up, while a bit of Parmesan cheese can bring extra flavor to the breading.
## Conclusion
The Ultimate Crispy Chicken Meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its golden, crunchy coating and juicy, tender chicken inside. Paired with crispy potato wedges and creamy coleslaw, this meal is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to gatherings with friends, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the crispy perfection!
—
What do you think? Would you be trying this recipe out soon, or are there any modifications you’d like to make?
