A Homemade Keel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe & 5 Best Variations

Keel breast fried chicken is classic Southern comfort food. In this article, we will explore the process of making the Keel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe.

We’ll guide you through the required ingredients, preparation techniques, cooking instructions, and tips for serving.

By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to create this delectable dish in your kitchen.

What Is The Keel Breast Fried?

The term “keel breast” in the context of fried chicken typically refers to the chicken breast meat, which is sometimes called the “keel” or “keel bone” due to its boat-shaped appearance.

Chicken Fried Chicken,” which is a popular dish in Southern cuisine. Chicken Fried Chicken typically involves boneless chicken breast fillets pounded thin, breaded, and fried to crispy and golden brown perfection.

How Long Will It Take To Prepare?

• Marinate Time: 1 hour to overnight (for best results)
• Preparation Time: Approximately 20 minutes (including coating the chicken)
• Breading Time: 10-15 minutes (may vary depending on the quantity)
• Frying Time: About 12-16 minutes (6-8 minutes per side)
• Total Time: 2 hours to overnight (mainly due to marinating) + 45-50 minutes (preparation, breading, frying)
• Serving: This recipe typically serves four people, but you can adjust the quantities as needed.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate (frying can be challenging if you’re not experienced)

How Do You Make Keel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe?

Essential Ingredients For Keel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe:

For the chicken:

• Four boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 1 cup buttermilk
• One teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• One teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

Essential Instructions For TheKeel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe:

Step 1

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl.

Step 2

Add the chicken breasts to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.

Step 3

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally, overnight. Marinating overnight will yield the best results.

Step 4

Prepare the Coating:

Combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a separate bowl. Mix well to create your seasoned coating.

Step 5

Coat the Chicken:

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Step 6

Dip each chicken breast into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. Press the flour onto the chicken to adhere.

Step 7

Double Coating (Optional):

You can repeat the dipping and coating process for an extra crispy crust. Dip the floured chicken back into the buttermilk mixture and then into the flour mixture again.

Step 8

Heat the Oil:

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about 1-2 inches of the bottom of the pan. Heat the oil to around 350-375°F (175-190°C) over medium-high heat.

Step 9

Fry the Chicken:

Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and make the chicken less crispy.

Step 10

Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 11

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to turn the chicken halfway through the frying process carefully.

Step 12

Drain and Serve:

Once the chicken is cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve your Keel Breast Fried Chicken hot and enjoy!

Additional Tips For Keel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe:

• Brining for Moisture: If you have the time, consider brining the chicken breasts before marinating them in buttermilk. Brining involves soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution to enhance moisture and tenderness.
• Let Excess Drip Off: When coating the chicken with flour, allow excess buttermilk to drip off before placing it into the flour mixture. This will prevent a thick, clumpy coating.
• Rest Before Frying: After coating the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes on a wire rack. This allows the coating to adhere better and ensures a crispier result.
• Use a Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption.
• Reheat for Crispy Leftovers: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness. A few minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) can do wonders.
• Customize Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture according to your taste preferences. Add more or less specific spices to tailor the flavor to your liking.

Precautions For Keel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe:

• Hot Oil Safety: Be extremely cautious when working with hot oil. Use a deep, heavy pot to minimize the risk of splattering. Never leave hot oil unattended, and keep a lid nearby to smother any potential flames.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Overcrowding the frying pan can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy and golden brown.
• Handle Chicken Safely: Practice good hygiene and safety when handling raw chicken. Wash your hands and utensils thoroughly to avoid cross-contamination.
• Dispose of Oil Properly: Allow the oil to cool completely after frying. Transfer it to a suitable container and dispose of it properly, following local regulations or guidelines.
• Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher within reach and know how to use it in case of a cooking-related fire. Never use water to extinguish an oil fire.

Nutrition Facts Of Keel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe

5 Best Variations Of Keel Breast Fried Chicken Recipe

1. Spicy Buffalo Keel Breast Fried Chicken:

After frying your Keel breast chicken, toss the pieces in a homemade or store-bought Buffalo sauce. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic Buffalo chicken experience.

2. Honey Mustard Glazed Keel Breast Fried Chicken:

Make a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze by mixing honey, Dijon mustard, and a dash of apple cider vinegar. After frying the chicken, brush each piece generously with the ice for a flavorful twist.

3. Southern-style Buttermilk Ranch Keel Breast Fried Chicken:

Add ranch seasoning to your flour mixture for a tangy and herby flavor. After frying, serve with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.

4. Cajun Spice Keel Breast Fried Chicken:

Season the flour mixture with Cajun spices, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and thyme, to give your fried chicken a spicy and bold kick.

5. Garlic Parmesan Keel Breast Fried Chicken:

Mix grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, and parsley into your flour mixture for a cheesy and aromatic coating. After frying, sprinkle the chicken with more grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Keel Breast Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that involves marinating chicken breasts, coating them with a flavorful mixture, and frying them to golden perfection.

You can create a crispy and delicious meal by following the recipe and tips provided.

Additionally, you can explore various flavor variations to cater to your taste preferences.

People Frequently Ask Questions

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

For frying, you can use vegetables, canola, peanuts, or any oil with a high smoke point. Choose an oil that you prefer and is suitable for deep frying.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut into the thickest part of a chicken breast to ensure no pink and the juices run clear.

What sides go well with Keel Breast Fried Chicken?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, and gravy. You can also serve it with macaroni and cheese, cornbread, or a fresh garden salad.

How do I store leftover fried chicken?

Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure to check the labels of other ingredients for gluten content.

Is it possible to make Keel Breast Fried Chicken without buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt, sour cream, or even milk with a squeeze of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tangy flavor of buttermilk.