Crispy fried chicken

Step-by-step recipe

Step 1:

Place the chicken pieces on a cutting board. Trim off any excess fat if necessary, but leave the skin on—it's what creates that crispy crust.

Step 2:

Rub the chicken generously with salt and pepper on all sides, working the spices into the meat. This is a simple but crucial step for rich flavor.

Step 3:

Place the pan over medium heat, add vegetable oil, and let it heat thoroughly. Proper heat is essential for an even, non-stick crust.

Step 4:

Place the chicken skin-side down in the pan. Leave it undisturbed for 5–7 minutes—this will allow the crust to brown and crisp. Cover the pan with a plate and place a makeshift weight, such as a ladle of water, on top.

Step 5:

Carefully turn the chicken thighs and drumsticks over with a wooden spatula. Continue frying, covering them with a plate with a weight.

Step 6:

Remove the lid, increase the heat and fry the chicken for another 5 minutes on each side – this will make the crust even crispier and the meat fully cooked.

Cooking tips

Use bone-in chicken with skin—without this, you won't get a truly crispy crust.

Don't turn the chicken over too early: let it "grip" to the surface of the pan.

If you love the flavor of garlic, add a couple of cloves to the pan during the sautéing stage—this will enhance the flavor without detracting from the simplicity of the recipe.

Serve hot as a standalone dish or with a light side dish. This is one of the most popular home-cooked recipes.