Englishs Fried Chicken Recipe brings a comforting, hearty twist to a classic favorite. Unlike its Southern American cousin, this version often features a more subtly seasoned coating, using herbs like thyme, sage, and parsley, paired with a light dusting of flour or breadcrumbs.
The result is a crisp, golden crust that encases juicy, tender chicken—perfect for a cozy meal at home. While it’s traditionally pan-fried rather than deep-fried, the flavor is just as rich and satisfying.
Served hot with chips, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad, Englishs Fried Chicken Recipe is a beloved dish that combines traditional British flavors with the irresistible texture of a good fry.
Whether for a Sunday lunch or a midweek treat, this recipe is sure to become a comforting favorite at your table.
How To Prepare Englishs Fried Chicken Recipe?
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: about 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: English‑inspired Comfort Food
Yield: Serves 4
Equipment
- Cast‑iron skillet or deep frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Wire rack
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1½ cups all‑purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Peanut or vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
I rinse the chicken pieces and pat them dry, then soak them in buttermilk for at least 3 hours (overnight if I plan ahead). That tang and tenderness make a world of difference.
2. Season the Flour
In a bowl, I mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper until the flavors are well blended.
3. Coat the Chicken
I let the excess buttermilk drip off the chicken before dredging it in the flour mix, ensuring each piece gets a generous, even coating. I shake off the excess so the crust stays just right.
4. Heat the Oil
I heat about 2 inches of oil in my cast‑iron skillet to 350 °F (175 °C). I test readiness with a pinch of flour—it sizzles right away if the oil’s hot enough.
5. Fry to Golden Perfection
I gently place chicken pieces skin‑side down, working in small batches. I fry each piece for about 10 minutes per side until the crust turns golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain & Rest
Once cooked, I transfer the pieces to a wire rack over paper towels. Then I let them rest for 5 minutes—this keeps the crust crisp and lets flavors settle.
Special note
This Englishs Fried Chicken Recipe is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, right after frying. For maximum flavor, always marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight.
Use fresh oil and control the frying temperature for even browning. Don’t skip resting the chicken—it keeps the coating crisp and delicious.
Nutrition Facts For Englishs Fried Chicken Recipe
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330–650 kcal |
| Protein | 30–50 g |
| Fat | 13–31 g (with minimal saturates depending on oil and skin) |
| Carbs | 20–35 g |
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Englishs Fried Chicken Recipe, I love pairing it with classic comfort sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, or crisp coleslaw
For a lighter touch, a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness of the chicken perfectly. Don’t forget warm biscuits or cornbread for that true Southern-style finish.
Hosting, serve it with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy mayo, or tangy BBQ to let everyone customize their plate. This crispy fried chicken truly shines with both hearty and fresh accompaniments.
Hints And Tips For Successful Cookie Baking
Sure! While this is a fried chicken recipe (not cookies), I understand you’re asking for baking-style hints and tips to ensure success—especially if you’re oven-finishing or baking the chicken instead of deep-frying. Here are 3 helpful hints and tips to make your Englishs Fried Chicken Recipe turn out perfectly every time:
Hints
1. Buttermilk is a game-changer
Marinate your chicken in buttermilk for at least 3 hours. It tenderizes the meat and adds a tangy depth of flavor you won’t get otherwise.
2. Let the coating rest
After dredging the chicken in seasoned flour, let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This helps the coating stick better and crisp up evenly during frying.
3. Don’t skip the seasoning
Always season both the marinade and the flour mixture. Layers of seasoning ensure every bite is flavorful, not just the crust.
Tips
1. Maintain oil temperature
Keep your oil between 325–350°F (165–175°C). Too hot, and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too cool, and it turns greasy.
2. Use a wire rack, not paper towels
After frying, rest chicken on a wire rack. This prevents soggy bottoms and keeps the crust perfectly crisp.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan
Fry in small batches. Overcrowding lowers oil temperature and leads to uneven cooking or greasy chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can! Boneless thighs or breasts work well, but reduce the cooking time slightly since they cook faster. Bone-in pieces tend to stay juicier and add more flavor, though.
What oil is best for frying this chicken?
I recommend using oils with a high smoke point like peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil. These give you a crispy finish without burning or overpowering the chicken’s flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should also run clear, and the crust will be golden brown.
Can I make this fried chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can fry it ahead and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. This helps retain the crispiness without drying it out.
Why does my coating fall off when frying?
It usually happens when the chicken is too wet or the oil isn’t hot enough. Let the coated chicken rest before frying and make sure your oil is properly preheated.
Conclusion
Englishs Fried Chicken Recipe is a comforting dish that combines crisp texture with classic, savory flavors.
Its simple herbs and golden coating make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a relaxed weekend meal.
Easy to prepare and always satisfying, this recipe brings a touch of British charm to your table. Serve it hot and enjoy a timeless favorite that never disappoints.