Classic Fried Chicken

Let’s face it—everyone has their secrets when it comes to making the perfect fried chicken. But we don’t! We’re down to outright spell out our pro tips to help you hatch some ideas!

PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES

COOK TIME: 14–18 MINUTES

YIELD: 4 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups distilled vinegar

• 2 cups water

• 2 tablespoons salt, divided

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (wings, breasts, drumsticks and thighs)

• 2 cups flour

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 tablespoon cayenne

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• Oil, for frying

Preparation

Combine vinegar, water, salt and sugar and whisk until both the salt and sugar are dissolved. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the vinegar solution over the top.

Spectrum

Culinary Oils

In another bowl, combine the remaining dry ingredients and mix. Toss each piece of chicken in the flour mixture until coated, then dip into the vinegar solution again, and then back in the flour mixture. Transfer each piece to a tray.

In a Dutch oven or large cast-iron pan, add oil to a depth of at least 2 inches, then heat to 315°F. Add the dredged chicken to the oil and fry to internal temperature of 165°F, about 14–18 minutes. Fry chicken in batches as needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Transfer to a rack to drain for 5 minutes before serving.

FRY AWAY with these specialty ingredients!

Spectrum's specialty oils are your perfect partner in cooking! Made with high-quality, wholesome ingredients and suited for for medium to high-heat cooking, they're great for stir-frying, sautéing and more.

Diamond Nut Coatings

Do you go nuts for formidable crisp and crunch? When you’re trying to keep your carb count to a minimum, coat your chicken in Diamond Nut Coatings , a breadcrumb alternative made with a blend of ground walnuts and pecans. Available in multiple flavors, it works as a great topping for a mac and cheese side, too!

Just About Foods Chickpea Crumbs

Just About Foods’ Chickpea Crumbs exist to grant your wish for healthy breading alternatives! Made from only organic chickpea crumbs and salt, these deliciously crunchy tidbits absorb less oil than other breading methods and are an easy grain-free substitute for breadcrumbs in any recipe.