Burning Fried Chicken? Here’s Why and How to Fix It!

Fried chicken is a beloved comfort food, but it can be frustrating when your attempts result in charred or burned results. Understanding the reasons behind burning can help you troubleshoot and achieve golden-brown, crispy fried chicken every time.

The Culprit: Overheating Oil

The most common cause of burning is overheating the oil. Chicken should be fried at a temperature between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the exterior of the chicken will burn before the inside is cooked through.
Tips to prevent overheating:

• Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
• Adjust the heat source as needed to maintain the desired temperature.
• Avoid overloading the fryer with chicken, as this can lower the oil temperature.

Overcrowding the Fryer

When you overcrowd the fryer, the chicken pieces don‘t have enough space to circulate properly. This can lead to uneven cooking and burning.
Tips to avoid overcrowding:

• Fry chicken in batches.
• Use a large enough fryer or pan to accommodate the chicken without crowding.
• Cook the chicken in a single layer, ensuring there is space between each piece.

Improper Breadcrumbs

If your breadcrumbs are too fine or too coarse, they can burn easily. Fine breadcrumbs will absorb too much oil and burn while coarse breadcrumbs may not adhere to the chicken properly, resulting in bare spots that can burn.
Tips for using the right breadcrumbs:

• Use medium-sized breadcrumbs for a crispy coating.
• Season the breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices.
• Shake off excess breadcrumbs before frying to prevent clumping.

Insufficient Seasoning

If your chicken is not seasoned properly, it can burn more easily. The salt and pepper in the seasoning help to draw out the moisture from the chicken, creating a crispy crust.
Tips for proper seasoning:

• Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
• Allow the chicken to rest for 30 minutes before frying to allow the seasoning to penetrate.
• If desired, add additional herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.

Incorrect Frying Time

Over-frying the chicken is another common cause of burning. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
Tips for determining the right frying time:

• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
• For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
• For bone-in, skin-on chicken, cook to an internal temperature of 175°F.

Using the Wrong Oil

The type of oil you use can also impact the burning process. Some oils have a lower smoke point than others, meaning they burn at a lower temperature.
Tips for choosing the right oil:

• Use oils with a high smoke point, such as canola oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil.
• Avoid using olive oil or butter, as they have a lower smoke point and can burn easily.

Other Potential Causes

• Dirty oil: Overused or dirty oil can burn at a lower temperature. Change the oil regularly to prevent burning.
• Old chicken: Fresh chicken is less likely to burn than older chicken. Check the expiration date before frying.
• Not drying the chicken: Excess moisture on the chicken can cause the oil to splatter and burn. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before frying.

Final Note: The Art of Perfect Fried Chicken

Mastering the art of fried chicken takes practice and attention to detail. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can achieve crispy, golden-brown fried chicken that will satisfy your cravings every time.

FAQs

Q: Why does my fried chicken have a bitter taste?
A: This can be caused by overcooking or using oil that is too hot.
Q: How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through without burning?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and cook to the proper temperature.
Q: Can I fry chicken in a non-stick pan?
A: Yes, but be sure to use a high smoke point oil and keep the heat at a medium temperature.
Q: How do I store fried chicken?
A: Store fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I reheat fried chicken?
A: Yes, reheat fried chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.