Crispy Chicken Cornstarch: The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Crunchy Chicken

Chicken Cornstarch is a universal favorite, known for its delightful crunch and tender, juicy interior. While many recipes focus on flour as the main coating, using cornstarch can elevate your fried chicken to new heights. This article will delve into the benefits of using cornstarch, tips for achieving that perfect crispy texture, and delicious recipes that showcase this technique.

Why Use Cornstarch for Crispy Chicken?

Cornstarch is a fine, powdery starch derived from corn kernels. It’s a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, often used for frying, thickening sauces, and coating meats. Here are some reasons why cornstarch is a fantastic choice for crispy chicken:

1. Increased Crispiness: Cornstarch forms a light, crisp coating that fries up beautifully. It creates a crunchier texture than flour because it has a lower protein content and absorbs moisture efficiently.
2. Less Greasy: Chicken coated with cornstarch tends to be less greasy than flour-coated chicken. The cornstarch creates a barrier that helps prevent excess oil absorption during frying.
3. Versatility: Cornstarch can be mixed with various seasonings to enhance flavor while maintaining that crispy exterior. It works well in various cuisines, from Southern fried chicken to Asian stir-fries.
4. Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten sensitivities, cornstarch is a great alternative to flour, making it possible to enjoy crispy chicken without the gluten.

Preparing the Chicken

To make the best crispy chicken, starting with the right chicken pieces and preparing them properly is essential. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Selecting Your Chicken

Choose your favorite chicken parts: breasts, thighs, wings, or drumsticks. Bone-in pieces often yield juicier results, while boneless options cook faster. Whichever you choose, ensure the chicken is fresh and properly thawed if previously frozen.

Marinating the Chicken

Ingredients for Marinade:

• 1 cup buttermilk or yogurt (for tenderness)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best results.

Drying the Chicken

Before coating your chicken, remove it from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because excess moisture can prevent the coating from adhering properly and achieving that desired crispiness.

Coating the Chicken with Cornstarch

Ingredients for the Coating:

• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: other spices like cayenne pepper, cumin, or Italian seasoning for added flavor

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, and any additional spices you desire.
2. Dredge each piece of dried chicken in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated. Shake off any excess cornstarch and set aside on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the coating adhere better.

Frying Techniques for Crispy Chicken

Deep Frying

1. Heat the Oil: Fill a deep frying pan or pot with enough oil to submerge the chicken. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy.
2. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
3. Drain the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Air Frying

For a healthier version, try air frying your cornstarch-coated chicken.

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil for extra crispiness. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Baking

For a lower-fat option, you can bake your crispy chicken:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This allows air circulation around the chicken, ensuring even cooking.
3. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken on the wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

Delicious Recipes Featuring Crispy Chicken Cornstarch

Now that you have mastered the art of crispy chicken using cornstarch, here are a few delicious recipes to try:

1. Crispy Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• Marinade (as outlined above)
• Coating mixture (as outlined above)
• Dipping sauces (ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken tenders as directed.
2. Coat them with the cornstarch mixture and fry or bake.
3. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

2. Sweet and Sour Crispy Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Marinade (as outlined above)
• Coating mixture (as outlined above)
• 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Marinate and coat the chicken as directed.
2. Fry the chicken until crispy and golden.
3. Toss the crispy chicken in sweet and sour sauce just before serving. Serve over rice or noodles.

3. Crispy Chicken Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken thighs, sliced thinly
• Marinade (as outlined above)
• Coating mixture (as outlined above)
• Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• Soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for flavor

Instructions:

1. Marinate and coat the chicken as directed.
2. Stir-fry the chicken in a hot pan until cooked through.
3. Add the vegetables and sauce, cooking until vegetables are tender. Serve with rice or noodles.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Chicken

• Use High-Quality Oil: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying.
• Control the Temperature: Keep the oil temperature steady to ensure even cooking. If the temperature drops too low, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Conclusion

Crispy chicken using cornstarch is a game changer in the kitchen, offering a deliciously crunchy texture that’s hard to resist. With the right techniques and recipes, you can create mouthwatering chicken dishes that will impress your family and friends. Whether you choose to fry, air fry, or bake, the secret to perfect crispy chicken lies in the cornstarch coating.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, visit Recipesify.

External Links for Further Reading

• How to Fry Chicken Perfectly – Serious Eats
• Cornstarch Cooking Tips – The Spruce Eats
• Healthy Cooking with Cornstarch – Healthline