Cooking fried chicken breasts can be tricky, especially when you’re dealing with lean cuts. The problem is, lean chicken breasts tend to dry out while they cook, and by the time they’re done, the texture becomes chalky. It’s a frustrating issue because no one likes to bite into a dry piece of meat, especially when you’re expecting something tender and juicy.
But, after a lot of trial and error, I stumbled upon a method that really works, allowing me to fry full breasts in a matter of minutes, while still keeping the meat exceptionally tasty, tender, and, of course, juicy.
What makes this method so special is that it allows you to fry the full chicken breasts without worrying about them being undercooked or turning out dry. It’s quick and efficient, and the results are always satisfying. The chicken breasts cook through quickly, and you don’t have to worry about that dreaded dry texture. It’s a method that, thankfully, works every time, ensuring you get a delicious, juicy chicken every time you fry it.
What Makes This Fried Chicken Breast So Special?
- The recipe works by combining three things that help create an amazingly tender and juicy fried chicken breast. The best part is that you can cook it whole in a matter of minutes, keeping it deliciously tender.
- The breast is scored into small squares, which allows for easy heat penetration and ensures that the meat cooks quickly and evenly, giving you that perfect texture.
- Dredging the chicken in eggs creates a protective layer that keeps the meat moist and prevents overheating, ensuring that every bite stays juicy and flavorful.
- Marination with ingredients like sour cream and mustard helps to tenderize the chicken while adding amazing flavor. You can even substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer.
Perfect Sides to Serve with Fried Chicken Breast
One of my absolute favorite side dishes to serve with fried chicken breasts is simple mashed potatoes. All you need to do is boil potatoes, then drain them, leaving about two tablespoons of liquid. After that, add butter, salt, and pepper to taste, and mash them with a fork.
You’ll want to keep some chunks in your mashed potatoes because that adds more texture and makes them even better. To elevate the dish, you can add bacon bits, sauteed onions, mushrooms, and some fresh chopped herbs for extra flavor.
Another great option is smothered cabbage—it pairs so well with the fried chicken breast. If you want something a bit more leaner, a mixed vegetable stir-fry is a quick and healthy choice. You could also try roasted vegetables or roasted beets with carrots and feta, which are fantastic as a side. If you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent, Hungarian sauteed potatoes make a delicious accompaniment to your meal.
How To Know When Your Chicken Breasts Are Done
The safe way to know when your chicken breasts are done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken to check its internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for perfect doneness. A meat thermometer helps you avoid cutting inside the chicken to check for doneness, which can cause you to lose the juices that keep the meat moist and tender.
Trust me, don’t skip this step. When you cut the chicken breast before it has had a chance to rest, you lose those essential juices that make it so juicy and flavorful. Invest in a meat thermometer for the best cooking results every time.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- 1 tsp Dijoin mustard (optional)
- 3 Tbsp sour cream (optional)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- vegetable oil (for frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Fried Chicken Breast
- Dry the chicken breasts using paper towels and place them shiny side down on a cutting board.
- Cut off chicken tenders and set them aside. Use a sharp knife to score the chicken breasts top to bottom and side to side, about half an inch deep, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Cover the chicken with Saran wrap and gently pound the meat using a tenderizer to ensure uniform thickness.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine sour cream and mustard, then rub the mixture over the chicken breasts, making sure it gets into every crevice. Cover and place the chicken in a bowl in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
- Whisk the egg in a medium bowl and set aside. Spread the flour on a large plate and set aside.
- Heat a skillet with cooking oil until it just covers the bottom. Dip the chicken breasts into the egg mixture, then coat with flour on both sides. Shake off excess flour before placing the chicken in the skillet.
- Fry the chicken breasts in batches: the first batch will be three chicken breasts, and the second batch will be the fourth chicken breast and the tenders. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, uncovered, until deep golden brown. Serve hot with your favorite side dish or use it to make delicious chicken sandwiches.
Pan Fried Chicken Breasts Video
FAQ
What is the best way to fry chicken breast?
For juicy, flavorful chicken breast, use a spice blend for seasoning, coat with seasoned flour or breadcrumbs, and pan-fry in hot oil until golden crisp. Maintain medium heat to avoid overcooking and lock in moisture. Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe, tender results.
How to make crispy batter for chicken breast?
To make a crispy batter for chicken breast, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and seasoning. Add cold water or sparkling water for a light, airy texture. Dip the chicken in the batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated, then fry in hot oil for a perfectly crispy, golden finish.
What is the secret to good fried chicken?
The secret to good fried chicken lies in a flavorful marinade, using buttermilk or brine to tenderize the meat. Coat with a seasoned flour mixture and fry in hot oil, maintaining the right temperature for a crispy, golden crust while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
What are the 5 ingredients in fried chicken?
The 5 main ingredients in fried chicken are chicken pieces, flour, eggs, seasoning (salt, pepper, spices), and cooking oil. The flour and seasoning create a crispy coating, while eggs help it stick. Deep-frying in hot oil gives the chicken its golden, crunchy texture.
