Sink your teeth into the ultimate Crispy & Crunchy Boneless Fried Chicken, where tender, juicy chicken meets a perfectly seasoned, extra-crunchy coating. This recipe delivers all the satisfaction of classic fried chicken without the bones, making it ideal for sandwiches, salads, or simply enjoying as is. Each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors, sure to become a family favorite.
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Key Information:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Marinating time: 1 hour
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Number of servings: 4
- Serving size: 2-3 pieces
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
Ingredients:
For the marinade:
- 600 g (1.3 lbs) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
- 240 ml (1 cup) buttermilk
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the breading:
- 240 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 120 g (1 cup) cornmeal or cornstarch
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp water
- 500 ml (2 cups) vegetable oil, for frying
Method of Preparation:
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the breading: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornmeal or cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. In a separate dish, whisk together the eggs and water.
- Bread the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally back into the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating. Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for 10 minutes to help the coating adhere.
- Fry the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 180°C (350°F). Fry the chicken in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your crispy boneless fried chicken hot, with your favorite dipping sauces, or use it in sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Double dip for extra crunch: Dipping the chicken back into the flour mixture after the egg wash ensures a thicker, crunchier coating.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Rest before frying: Letting the breaded chicken rest before frying helps the coating stick better and results in a crunchier texture.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for safe and juicy results.
- Keep it warm: If frying in batches, keep the cooked chicken warm in a low oven (around 100°C/210°F) until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? Yes, bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breast works well, but be mindful of the cooking time as it can dry out faster than thighs.
- Is there a gluten-free option? Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour, and ensure your cornmeal or cornstarch is gluten-free.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
- What dipping sauces go well with this dish? Classic choices like ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy aioli pair wonderfully with the crispy chicken.
Crispy & Crunchy Boneless Fried Chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion, from casual family dinners to game day gatherings. With its juicy interior and irresistibly crunchy exterior, this chicken is bound to become a hit in your household. Serve it up with your favorite sides and watch it disappear faster than you can say “fried chicken.”