Real Simple Fried Chicken
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
45 mins
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Servings
4 servings
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Calories
526 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Real Simple Fried Chicken
Description
This recipe calls for seasoning cut-up chicken pieces with salt and black pepper before coating them evenly with self-rising flour. The chicken is fried in heated peanut oil, starting skin-side down to develop a pale golden crust. After initial browning, the pieces are flipped and cooked on the other side, then turned once more to cook through on medium-low heat with the pan covered. This method ensures a crispy exterior and moist meat inside.
The simple seasoning allows the quality of the chicken and coating to shine without complex spice blends. Peanut oil is recommended for its high smoke point and ability to maintain consistent frying temperature without burning.
Fried chicken like this serves well with classic sides or as a main dish on its own. Leftover pieces keep for a day or two refrigerated and can be reheated gently in a low oven to maintain crispness without drying out. Adding additional seasoning such as cayenne or hot sauce is optional but the recipe’s core flavor is plain and versatile.
For best results, don't overcrowd the pan when frying and adjust heat as needed to prevent burning or undercooking.
Ingredients
- 1 chicken cut up, for frying
- salt
- black pepper
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour
- peanut oil
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a shallow pan.
- Liberally salt and pepper the chicken on both sides.
- Sprinkle flour over the chicken in the pan. Toss the chicken until well coated with flour.
- Meanwhile, heat the peanut oil in a large iron skillet.
- Place the chicken pieces skin side down in the hot oil. Cook for approximately 10 minutes or until the skin is pale golden brown.
- Turn the chicken over and cook for 10 minutes on the second side.
- Turn chicken pieces once more and reduce the heat to medium low. Cover and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove cooked chicken to a paper towel lined plate or a rack set in a baking pan and allow it to drain for about 5 minutes.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat in a 250°F oven for about 15 minutes to restore crispness.
- Peanut oil is preferred due to its high smoke point which helps avoid burning the coating.
- Stick to salt and pepper for a simple, authentic flavor, but additional seasonings like cayenne can be added if desired.
- Maintain consistent frying temperature by not overcrowding the pan and adjusting the heat as needed during cooking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 526 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 | |
| Calories | 526kcal | 26% |
| Carbohydrates | 11g | 4% |
| Protein | 37g | 74% |
| Fat | 36g | 55% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 143mg | 48% |
| Sodium | 134mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 376mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 267IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 23mg | 2% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.