If you’re craving a taste of the South, look no further than this recipe for crispy fried chicken. Made with locally sourced Plum Creek Farms Chicken and a blend of savory spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- Plum Creek Farms Chicken (any cut you prefer)
- 3 1/2 teaspoons sea salt, divided
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup Heavenly Waffles Original mixture (or your favorite pancake/waffle mix)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1 cup lard for frying
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for the final step of baking the chicken.
- Season the Plum Creek Farms Chicken pieces with 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Prepare the dredging stations: On the first plate or shallow pan, whisk together the all-purpose flour, remaining 2 teaspoons of sea salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to create the seasoned flour mixture.
- In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and hot sauce to create the egg wash.
- On another plate or shallow pan, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of Heavenly Waffles Original mixture (or your preferred pancake/waffle mix) to create the final flour mixture.
- Dredge each seasoned chicken piece first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it in the flour/waffle mix, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Allow the coated chicken to rest on a baking sheet while you finish coating the remaining pieces, allowing the breading to set.
- In a 12-inch cast iron skillet, heat the lard over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully lower the coated chicken pieces into the hot lard, frying them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the breading is golden brown and crispy, using tongs to carefully turn the pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Once fried, transfer the chicken pieces to a sheet pan fitted with an oven-safe rack, allowing any excess oil to drain.
- Bake the fried chicken in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to ensure it is fully cooked and crispy.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve your crispy Southern-style fried chicken alongside your favorite sides and enjoy a taste of the South right at home.
With this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the irresistible flavor and crunch of classic Southern fried chicken, perfect for any occasion. Gather your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this comforting and satisfying dish from Ellsworth Crossing.
