Fast And Easy Fried Chicken

Are you craving a delicious homemade dinner but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen? Look no further than this recipe for Fast and Easy Fried Chicken. This crispy and juicy fried chicken will have your whole family coming back for seconds. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.

**Ingredients:**

– 8 pieces of bone-in, skin-on chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Vegetable oil for frying

**Instructions:**

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the flour coating adhere better to the chicken.

2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture all over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the seasoned chicken sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

3. Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour with a little more of the seasoning mixture. Dredge each piece of seasoned chicken in the flour mixture, pressing down to coat thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.

4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the seasoned flour into the oil. If it sizzles and starts bubbling immediately, the oil is hot enough for frying.

5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin-side down. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to fry the chicken in batches depending on the size of your skillet. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).

6. Drain and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or a plate lined with paper towels. This will help drain any excess oil and keep the chicken crisp. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum juiciness.

7. Enjoy: Serve your Fast and Easy Fried Chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weekend get-together with friends. Get ready for compliments and empty plates!

This Fast and Easy Fried Chicken recipe is a surefire way to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. The combination of crispy coating and tender meat is simply irresistible. Try it out for a hassle-free and delicious meal that will quickly become a family favorite.