We Found the Perfect Fried Chicken Technique

Summary

This video dives deep into the art and science of perfecting fried chicken. The process starts with marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of seasonings, followed by a carefully crafted dredging technique using a flour blend, cornstarch, and MSG to create a light, crispy crust. The chicken is then fried at a low temperature to avoid over-crisping the coating. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly balanced texture. The video also highlights the importance of clean oil and precise timing, as well as the addition of a hot honey glaze to finish the dish.

Takeaways

• 😀 A lot of science and artistry go into perfecting fried chicken, and it's not just about the cooking process but also about developing the right textures and flavors.
• 😀 The marinade for the chicken breast consists of SRPA, dry dredge, combo dashi powder (MSG), and French's mustard, and it should marinate for 12 hours to establish a good crust base.
• 😀 Turning the chicken over 60 times in the dredge ensures a fine network of craggy bits and a light, crispy crust.
• 😀 A crucial part of the process is to avoid pressing the chicken too hard into the dredge, as this could affect the airiness and texture of the final product.
• 😀 The flour mixture used in the dredge includes T starch, corn flour, MSG, baking powder, and spice salt, creating the perfect lightness for the crust.
• 😀 The wet batter, which includes whole egg, contributes to the crispy texture, while the excess moisture on the chicken should always be tapped off before dipping.
• 😀 Clean oil and proper temperature (around 160°C) are key to achieving the perfect fried chicken without burning the crust.
• 😀 It's essential not to disturb the chicken while it cooks to avoid damaging the crust, which should remain light and delicate.
• 😀 A hot honey glaze with infused seasoning and acidity finishes the fried chicken, providing a balance of sweetness and tang that complements the crispy crust.
• 😀 The final product should have a light, crispy coating that stays intact while keeping the chicken inside moist and juicy.
• 😀 The process of perfecting fried chicken requires patience, and the best fried chicken comes from a combination of both science and practical experience.

Q & A

What is the purpose of marinating the chicken for 12 hours?

Marinating the chicken for 12 hours allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, while also helping to form an initial crust on the chicken, setting the foundation for the texture during frying.

What is the significance of using SRPA, dashy powder (MSG), and French mustard in the marinade?

The combination of SRPA, dashy powder (MSG), and French mustard enhances the flavor profile of the chicken, with MSG boosting the umami taste and mustard providing acidity and depth.

Why is it important to flip the chicken 60 times during the dredging process?

Flipping the chicken 60 times ensures that the dry dredge creates a fine, airy coating that contributes to the crispy and light texture of the fried chicken.

What ingredients are in the dry dredge mixture, and what role do they play?

The dry dredge contains cornstarch, baking powder, MSG, and spices. These ingredients work together to create a light, crispy crust while also enhancing the flavor of the chicken.

How does the wet dredge differ from the dry dredge, and why is it essential?

The wet dredge contains egg, which helps bind the dry dredge to the chicken. This step creates a smooth, cohesive coating that adheres to the meat, ensuring a perfect, crispy crust once fried.

Why is it crucial to tap off excess moisture after dipping the chicken into the wet dredge?

Tapping off excess moisture prevents the batter from becoming too thick or cakey, which could affect the final texture, ensuring a light and crisp fried crust.

What is the ideal frying temperature for chicken breast, and why is it set to 160°C?

The ideal frying temperature for chicken breast is 160°C. This low heat ensures that the chicken cooks through without over-crisping the batter, leading to a tender interior and crispy exterior.

Why is it important not to disturb the chicken while it’s frying?

Disturbing the chicken during frying can damage the delicate crust that’s forming. It’s essential to leave the chicken undisturbed to preserve its texture and ensure even frying.

How does using clean oil affect the quality of the fried chicken?

Using clean oil is essential for frying because it ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and consistently, while also preventing off-flavors from developing, keeping the batter crisp and light.

What role does the hot honey glaze play in the final fried chicken dish?

The hot honey glaze adds a sweet, savory, and slightly acidic flavor to the fried chicken, enhancing the overall taste and helping to keep the crust intact without making it soggy.