Easy Crisco Fried Chicken is a timeless, Southern-inspired dish that delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s hard to resist. This classic recipe uses Crisco shortening for frying, which helps achieve a perfect, non-greasy crunch on the outside while keeping the chicken tender and moist on the inside. With a simple seasoning blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, this fried chicken is both delicious and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a picnic, or craving some comfort food, this Easy Crisco Fried Chicken recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Pair it with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits for a complete, hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (breasts, thighs, wings, drumsticks)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- Crisco shortening, for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the Flour:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the chicken into the egg wash, then back into the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating. Place the coated chicken on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.
- Heat the Crisco:
- In a large, deep skillet or cast-iron pan, melt enough Crisco shortening to fill about 1 inch deep. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle and turn golden brown in about 1 minute.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, skin side down, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Adjust the heat as needed to maintain the oil temperature.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Easy Crisco Fried Chicken is a classic recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, providing a deliciously crispy crust and juicy, flavorful meat. It’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
