Pickle-Fried Chicken is a flavorful and unique twist on the classic fried chicken recipe. The tangy brine from the pickles infuses the chicken with a zesty kick, while the crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch. This dish is perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or any occasion where you want to impress with something a little different. Follow this detailed recipe to create mouth-watering Pickle-Fried Chicken at home.
Ingredients for Pickle-Fried Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups dill pickle juice
- 2 cups buttermilk, divided
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Pickle slices, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Pickle-Fried Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the dill pickle juice over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is fully submerged.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk and the eggs until well combined.
- In a third shallow bowl, mix the remaining 1 cup of buttermilk with the cornstarch until smooth.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the pickle juice marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Next, dip the chicken into the buttermilk and egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, dip the chicken into the buttermilk and cornstarch mixture, ensuring a thorough coating.
- Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the coating to set.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve the Pickle-Fried Chicken
- Arrange the fried chicken on a serving platter and garnish with pickle slices, if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes.
About the Main Ingredients
Chicken
Chicken breasts are a versatile and lean protein, making them a popular choice for many dishes. They absorb flavors well, especially when marinated. In this recipe, the chicken is marinated in pickle juice, which not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.
Dill Pickle Juice
Dill pickle juice is the secret ingredient that gives this fried chicken its unique tangy flavor. The acidity in the pickle juice helps to tenderize the chicken while infusing it with a zesty, savory taste. This ingredient transforms a simple fried chicken recipe into something extraordinary.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk is essential in creating a moist and tender chicken coating. Its acidity helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, ensuring a tender bite. Additionally, buttermilk contributes to the rich, crispy crust that makes fried chicken so irresistible.
Spices and Seasonings
The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt adds depth and complexity to the chicken’s coating. These spices complement the tanginess of the pickle juice, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that is both savory and slightly spicy.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch is used in the breading process to enhance the crispiness of the chicken. It helps create a light and airy crust that stays crunchy even after frying. Combined with the flour and buttermilk, cornstarch ensures that the chicken has a perfectly crispy exterior.
Crispy and Tangy Pickle-Fried Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional fried chicken, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for its unique taste and satisfying crunch. Enjoy this dish with your preferred sides and sauces, and savor the delicious combination of tangy and crispy goodness.
