How To Fry Chicken With Cornmeal

Looking to add some deliciousness to your dinner table? Frying chicken with cornmeal is an excellent way to achieve that perfect crispy coating while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will walk you through the steps to fry chicken with cornmeal like a pro.

Why Fry Chicken with Cornmeal?

Cornmeal is a versatile ingredient that adds a unique texture and flavor to fried chicken. Its coarse texture gives the chicken a satisfying crunch, while its subtle sweetness complements the savory notes of the poultry. Additionally, cornmeal can help lock in moisture, resulting in tender and succulent chicken.

What You’ll Need

Chicken pieces (legs, wings, breasts, or a whole chicken cut into parts)
Cornmeal
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Buttermilk or milk
Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, etc.)
Vegetable oil or other high-heat oil
Frying thermometer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken by rinsing it under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings of your choice. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and your desired seasonings. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and buttermilk or milk.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it is coated evenly. Then, transfer the chicken to the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating to the chicken.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven. Maintain a temperature of around 350°F (175°C) using a frying thermometer. It’s crucial to monitor the oil’s temperature for optimal results.
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary.
Allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 15-20 minutes, until the exterior becomes crispy and golden brown.
Using tongs, carefully flip the chicken pieces to cook the other side for an additional 15-20 minutes. Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove it from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to remove excess oil.
Serve the fried chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cornmeal mixture.
Experiment with different seasonings to tailor the flavor to your liking.
For a healthier alternative, you can oven-bake the cornmeal-coated chicken instead of frying it. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
Leftover fried chicken can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold the next day or reheated in the oven for a few minutes to revive the crunch.

Now that you have mastered the art of frying chicken with cornmeal, it’s time to whip up a batch of this irresistible dish for your next gathering or family dinner. The crispy exterior and moist meat will have everyone asking for seconds. Happy frying!

Want to share your tips and tricks for frying chicken with cornmeal? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum section and let us know how you make this classic Southern dish!

FAQ:

Can I use any type of chicken for frying with cornmeal?

Yes, you can use any type of chicken for frying with cornmeal. Whether it’s chicken breasts, drumsticks, wings, or even boneless chicken, the cornmeal coating will add a delicious crunch to any cut of chicken.

Should I marinate the chicken before frying it with cornmeal?

Marinating the chicken before frying with cornmeal is not necessary. However, if you prefer to add extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, herbs, and spices for a few hours before coating it with cornmeal.

Can I use a different type of flour instead of cornmeal?

While cornmeal is traditionally used for frying chicken, you can experiment with different flours if desired. However, keep in mind that cornmeal gives the chicken a distinct flavor and a satisfying crunch. Substituting with other flours may result in a different texture and taste.

How do I ensure that the cornmeal coating sticks to the chicken?

To help the cornmeal coating adhere to the chicken, pat the chicken pieces dry before dredging them in the cornmeal mixture. Additionally, it’s best to coat the chicken in the cornmeal just before frying, as this will prevent the coating from becoming too moist or clumpy.

Can I deep fry the chicken instead of pan-frying it?

Yes, you can deep fry the chicken instead of pan-frying it. Deep frying will give you an even crispier and golden exterior, while maintaining the juicy tenderness inside. Make sure to use a deep fryer or a large pot with enough oil to fully submerge the chicken.

How can I make sure the chicken is cooked through without burning the cornmeal coating?

To ensure that the chicken is cooked through without burning the cornmeal coating, it’s recommended to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, and when it registers 165°F (74°C), the chicken is ready to be removed from the heat.

Can I use leftover cornmeal-coated chicken?

Leftover cornmeal-coated chicken can be refrigerated and enjoyed later. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating it in the oven, toaster oven, or air fryer will help maintain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chicken soggy.

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How To Fry Chicken With Cornmeal