Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or large frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1 ½ inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), or until a small amount of flour dropped into the oil sizzles immediately.
Dredge the Chicken:
Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks, then set aside.
Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, skin-side down if using bone-in chicken. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. Fry the chicken for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy. For boneless breasts, cook for around 6-7 minutes per side.
Drain and Rest:
Once the chicken is crispy and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C), remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving: Tuscan Fried Chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad. For an authentic touch, drizzle the chicken with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Storage: Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to preserve its crispy texture.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the fried chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat by baking in the oven from frozen, for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully heated through.
Variants:
Spicy Tuscan Fried Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra spicy kick. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or pepperoncini vinegar over the finished chicken for added heat and flavor.
Herb-Infused Chicken: For an even more herbaceous twist, you can experiment with different fresh herbs such as basil, sage, or oregano in the marinade or coating mixture. The more herbs, the more flavor!
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour, and use gluten-free cornmeal for the coating. The result will still be crispy and delicious.
FAQ:
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work well for this recipe. You can fry them for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F/75°C).
What’s the best oil for frying Tuscan Fried Chicken?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all excellent choices for frying due to their high smoke points. You want to avoid oils that burn at lower temperatures, like olive oil, as it can affect the flavor and crispiness.
How do I make sure the chicken stays crispy after frying?
After frying, place the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes, which helps the coating set and keeps it crispy. If you’re serving the chicken later, reheating it in the oven will help maintain its crunch.
Can I bake this chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. To get a crispy exterior, brush the chicken with a little olive oil before baking.
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use chicken wings, drumsticks, or even chicken tenders for a different take on Tuscan Fried Chicken. Adjust the cooking times based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
Tuscan Fried Chicken brings the best of Italian flavors to a comfort food classic. With the aromatic herbs and zesty lemon infusion, it’s a dish that’s bound to be a hit at your next meal. Whether served with a side of roasted vegetables or fresh greens, this crispy, juicy fried chicken is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of Tuscany from the comfort of your own home. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family—this recipe is too good to keep to yourself!
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