Name: Easy Crunchy Fried Chicken
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 30 saltine crackers; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp dry potato flakes; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp ground black pepper; 1 egg; 6 chicken breast; 2 cups Vegetable Oil

Looking for a delightful and straightforward way to make fried chicken at home? This easy crunchy fried chicken recipe promises a mouthwatering, crispy crust that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Photos of Easy Crunchy Fried Chicken

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common, you might not always have saltine crackers or dry potato flakes in your pantry. These items are essential for achieving the perfect crunchy coating, so be sure to pick them up during your next visit to the grocery store.

Ingredients For Easy Crunchy Fried Chicken

Saltine crackers: Used to create a crunchy coating for the chicken.

All-purpose flour: Helps bind the coating to the chicken.

Dry potato flakes: Adds extra crunch to the coating.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.

Egg: Helps the coating adhere to the chicken.

Chicken breast: The main protein for this dish.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken to a golden brown.

One reader, Andrey Wesley says:

This easy crunchy fried chicken recipe is a game-changer! The coating is perfectly crispy, and the chicken stays juicy inside. Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it a breeze to prepare. My family loved it, and it's now a regular in our meal rotation. Highly recommend!

Andrey Wesley

Techniques Required

How to crush crackers: Place crackers in a large resealable plastic bag, seal the bag, and crush the crackers with a rolling pin until they are coarse crumbs. How to dredge chicken: Beat an egg in a shallow dish or bowl. One by one, dredge chicken pieces in the egg, then place them in the bag with the crumb mixture. Seal the bag and shake to coat. How to heat oil: Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F. How to fry chicken: Fry chicken, turning frequently, until golden brown and juices run clear, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

How To Make Easy Crunchy Fried Chicken

Prepare these crunchy fried chicken for kids as they go to school. It’s easy and quick, all you need is a bag of crushed crackers and some flavoring.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

30saltine crackers
2tbspall-purpose flour
2tbspdry potato flakes
1tspsalt,seasoned
½tspground black pepper
1egg
6chicken breast,halves skinless,boneless
2cupsvegetable oil,for frying

Instructions

Place crackers in a large resealable plastic bag; seal bag and crush crackers with a rolling pin until they are coarse crumbs.
Add the flour, potato flakes, seasoned salt and pepper, and mix well.
Beat egg in a shallow dish or bowl. One by one, dredge chicken pieces in egg, then place in bag with crumb mixture. Seal bag and shake to coat.
Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F.
Fry chicken, turning frequently, until golden brown and juices run clear, 15 to 20 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 1044.65kcal
Fat: 92.77g
Saturated Fat: 9.97g
Trans Fat: 0.78g
Monounsaturated Fat: 60.96g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 17.05g
Carbohydrates: 13.81g
Fiber: 0.61g
Sugar: 0.25g
Protein: 38.95g
Cholesterol: 138.02mg
Sodium: 643.59mg
Calcium: 27.85mg
Potassium: 434.06mg
Iron: 2.42mg
Vitamin A: 53.43µg
Vitamin C: 0.62mg

Technique Tip for Crunchy Fried Chicken

For an extra crispy coating, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after dredging in the crumb mixture before frying. This allows the coating to adhere better and results in a crunchier texture.

How to Save Time on Making This Dish

Prepare ingredients ahead: Crush saltine crackers and mix with flour, potato flakes, salt, and pepper in advance. Store in an airtight container.

Use a food processor: Quickly crush crackers by pulsing them in a food processor instead of using a rolling pin.

Preheat oil: Start heating the vegetable oil while you prepare the chicken to save time.

Batch process: Dredge all chicken breasts in egg and coat with the crumb mixture before frying to streamline the process.

Use a thermometer: Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature of 350°F with a kitchen thermometer for even cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Crunchy Fried Chicken

saltine crackers - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunch and texture to saltine crackers.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch creates a crispier coating and is a good alternative for those avoiding gluten.
dry potato flakes - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes add a similar crunch and can be used as a gluten-free option.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.
ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and a different flavor profile, making the dish spicier.
egg - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy flavor, while also helping the coating stick.
chicken breast - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative to chicken breasts.
vegetable oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and adds a subtle nutty flavor, making it ideal for frying.

Best Way to Present Your Fried Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the chicken breast into smaller, bite-sized pieces before frying. This ensures a more refined presentation and allows for better control over cooking.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley and a few slices of lemon to add a pop of color and freshness.
Plate with precision: Arrange the fried chicken pieces neatly on a pristine white plate. Use a pair of tongs to place each piece carefully, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not overlapping.
Add a dipping sauce: Serve a small ramekin of homemade aioli or spicy mayo on the side. This adds an element of sophistication and provides a complementary flavor.
Incorporate texture: Add a small side of crisp coleslaw or a microgreens salad to the plate. This not only adds color but also provides a contrasting texture to the crunchy fried chicken.
Use high-quality oil: Ensure the vegetable oil used for frying is fresh and of high quality. This will enhance the flavor and crispiness of the chicken.
Highlight the crust: Make sure the cracker crumb coating is evenly distributed and visibly golden brown. This showcases the crunchiness and adds visual appeal.
Serve hot: Ensure the fried chicken is served immediately after frying to maintain its crispiness and optimal temperature.

Best Tools for Crunchy Fried Chicken

Resealable plastic bag: Used to crush and mix the cracker crumbs and seasoning, ensuring an even coating for the chicken.
Rolling pin: Utilized to crush the saltine crackers into coarse crumbs.
Shallow dish or bowl: Needed to beat the egg and dredge the chicken pieces.
Deep-fryer: Ideal for frying the chicken to achieve a golden brown and crunchy texture.
Large saucepan: An alternative to the deep-fryer for frying the chicken.
Tongs: Useful for turning the chicken pieces while frying to ensure they cook evenly.
Meat thermometer: Helps to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F, ensuring it is fully cooked.
Paper towels: Used to drain excess oil from the fried chicken once it is cooked.
Plate: To place the chicken pieces on after they are coated with the crumb mixture and before frying.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, potato flakes, salt, and pepper.
Measuring cup: Needed to measure the vegetable oil for frying.

How To Store / Freeze Your Fried Chicken

Allow the fried chicken to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the coating soggy.
Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or wrap each piece tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This helps maintain the crunchy texture.
Store the chicken in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place the wrapped chicken in a resealable freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in an oven preheated to 375 degrees F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
To retain the crispiness, avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can make the coating soggy. Instead, use an oven or an air fryer for best results.
If you have leftover fried chicken that you want to repurpose, consider chopping it up and adding it to a salad, soup, or even a casserole for a delightful twist.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This is the perfect temperature to ensure your chicken gets crispy without drying out.
Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring it reheats evenly and stays crunchy.
Arrange the leftover fried chicken pieces on the wire rack. Make sure they are not touching each other to allow for even reheating.
Cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil. This helps to prevent the chicken from drying out while it heats up.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. Check the chicken halfway through and flip the pieces to ensure even reheating.
Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. This will help the chicken regain its crunch.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach at least 165 degrees F to ensure it is heated through.
Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for a quicker method. Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F.
Place the fried chicken pieces in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; you may need to do this in batches.
Air fry for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F.
Let the chicken rest for a minute or two before serving.
For a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of vegetable oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the fried chicken pieces to the skillet.
Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat and moisture, reheating the chicken evenly.
Turn the chicken pieces occasionally to ensure they heat through and regain their crunch.
Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F.
Let the chicken rest for a minute before serving.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A random fact about this recipe is that using saltine crackers as a coating creates an extra crunchy texture for the fried chicken, making it a unique alternative to traditional bread crumbs.

Is This Dish Economical for Home Cooking?

The easy crunchy fried chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breast, saltine crackers, and vegetable oil are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD. Given the simplicity and accessibility of the ingredients, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side. The primary concerns are the high fat content from deep frying and the use of processed ingredients like saltine crackers and potato flakes. Deep frying in 2 cups of vegetable oil significantly increases the calorie count and adds unhealthy trans fats. Additionally, the saltine crackers and seasoned salt contribute to a high sodium content, which can be detrimental to heart health.

Replace saltine crackers with whole grain breadcrumbs to increase fiber content.
Substitute dry potato flakes with ground oats or almond flour for a healthier coating.
Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce fat content.
Opt for baking the chicken instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Incorporate spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance flavor without adding extra salt.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal and add essential nutrients.

By making these adjustments, you can transform this indulgent dish into a healthier, yet equally satisfying, version.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This recipe offers a straightforward approach to achieving crunchy fried chicken with minimal ingredients. The use of saltine crackers and potato flakes adds a unique texture and flavor. However, consider marinating the chicken beforehand for enhanced flavor and tenderness. Additionally, using a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at 350 degrees Fahrenheit will help achieve consistent results. Overall, it's a simple yet effective method for a deliciously crispy fried chicken.

Enhance Your Easy Crunchy Fried Chicken with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine a velvety blend of potatoes and garlic, whipped to perfection. The creamy texture and rich flavor will complement the crunchy fried chicken like a dream.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory carrots drizzled with a luscious honey glaze. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the fried chicken.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a delightful crunch, seasoned with a hint of balsamic vinegar. These little green gems will add a burst of flavor and texture to your meal.

Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy mayonnaise dressing. This coleslaw brings a cool, crisp contrast to the warm, crispy fried chicken.

Buttermilk Biscuits: Fluffy, golden biscuits with a hint of buttermilk. These soft, buttery delights are perfect for sopping up any extra juices from your fried chicken.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish

Buttermilk Fried Chicken: Dive into the classic buttermilk fried chicken! Marinate your chicken breasts in tangy buttermilk and spices, then dredge in a seasoned flour mixture. Fry until crispy and golden brown. Perfect for a family dinner or a picnic treat.

Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken: For a healthier twist, try oven-baked crispy chicken. Coat your chicken pieces in a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then bake until crunchy and delicious. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Spicy Fried Chicken Tenders: Kick it up a notch with spicy fried chicken tenders. Marinate chicken tenders in a spicy buttermilk mixture, then coat in seasoned flour and fry until golden. Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces.

Chicken Schnitzel: Experience a taste of Europe with chicken schnitzel. Pound chicken breasts thin, coat in breadcrumbs and flour, then fry until crispy. Serve with a side of potato salad or coleslaw.

Southern Fried Chicken: Indulge in the rich flavors of southern fried chicken. Season your chicken pieces with a blend of spices, dredge in flour, and fry until golden brown. Pair with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting meal.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Transform your next gathering with these delightful Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by hollowing out button mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown. The creamy texture combined with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms makes for an irresistible bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with Bruschetta. Toast slices of baguette until they are crisp and golden. Top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping creates a perfect harmony of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, gooey chocolate lava cake that oozes rich chocolate with every bite. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold. Garnish with fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a touch of elegance. This dessert is perfect for those who crave a decadent and indulgent treat after a savory meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Envision a tangy lemon meringue pie with a buttery crust and a fluffy meringue topping. The tartness of the lemon curd balances beautifully with the sweetness of the meringue, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and add a twist by incorporating a hint of ginger or mint in the crust for an extra layer of complexity.

Why trust this Easy Crunchy Fried Chicken:

This recipe for crunchy fried chicken is a tried-and-true method that guarantees delicious results. The combination of saltine crackers, potato flakes, and seasonings creates a perfectly crispy coating. Using a deep-fryer or large saucepan ensures even cooking, while the simple steps make it accessible for any home cook. Trust this recipe for its ease and the mouthwatering golden brown finish that will impress your family and friends.

Want to share your own fried chicken recipe or discuss techniques for getting that perfect crunch? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our cooking forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How can I make sure the chicken is cooked through?

I always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165 degrees F. If you don't have one, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like canola or peanut oil. Just make sure it has a high smoke point to handle the frying temperature.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well. They might take a bit longer to cook, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the egg before placing it in the crumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to help them stick better. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.

Can I bake this instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake it. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F, place the coated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.