Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe

Mustard Fried Chicken offers a mouthwatering combination of crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy meat with a tangy kick. The secret to this flavorful fried chicken lies in the marinade, where chicken pieces are coated in a zesty mustard mixture. This mustard not only helps to tenderize the meat but also infuses it with a distinct tang that pairs perfectly with the seasoned crust. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a barbecue, or a casual gathering, this fried chicken recipe is sure to steal the spotlight.

The fried chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture that creates a crispy and flavorful crust, while the mustard marinade enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. The result is a satisfying crunch with every bite and a juicy interior that keeps the chicken tender and flavorful. Pair this crispy fried chicken with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that will make everyone ask for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mustard Fried Chicken is a flavorful twist on the classic fried chicken, where mustard adds a tangy and savory element that takes the chicken to the next level. The seasoned crust is perfectly crispy, creating a satisfying texture, while the chicken remains juicy and tender on the inside. The simple yet effective marinade ensures the meat is seasoned all the way through, while the crust locks in all the flavors during frying. It’s a unique take on a Southern classic that you’ll love for its bold flavor and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• Chicken pieces with bones (6 pounds)
• Yellow prepared mustard (1 cup)
• Season salt (1 tablespoon)
• Garlic powder (1 tablespoon)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1 tablespoon)
• Dried parsley flakes (1 tablespoon)

For the Chicken Crust:

• Flour (3 cups)
• Season salt (2 teaspoons)
• Black pepper (2 teaspoons)
• Garlic powder (2 teaspoons)
• Paprika (2 teaspoons)
• Oil for frying

Variations

• Spicy Kick: If you prefer a spicier fried chicken, you can add cayenne pepper to the marinade or the crust mixture to introduce some heat.
• Buttermilk Marinade: For an extra tender texture, you can mix some buttermilk into the mustard marinade. This will make the chicken even juicier and more flavorful.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour.
• Oven-Fried Chicken: If you’re looking to cut back on the oil, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Coat the chicken in the flour mixture and bake it at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through for an even crisp.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix together the yellow mustard, season salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and dried parsley flakes. Place the chicken pieces in the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the mustard mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Crust

In a separate shallow bowl or plate, combine the flour, season salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, remove each piece from the mustard mixture, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Gently shake off any excess flour.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 10-15 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked and crispy, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve the fried chicken hot with your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pat Dry the Chicken: Before marinating, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the mustard mixture adheres better to the surface.
• Frying Temperature: Maintain a steady oil temperature of 350°F to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy without absorbing too much oil. A thermometer is helpful for keeping the oil at the right temperature.
• Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to redistribute within the meat.
• Double Dredging: For an extra crispy coating, you can double dredge the chicken. After the first coating of flour, dip the chicken back into the mustard mixture and then coat it with flour again before frying.

How to Serve

Mustard Fried Chicken pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or a side salad. It also goes perfectly with a drizzle of honey or hot sauce for added flavor. You can serve it as part of a hearty dinner or at a backyard barbecue where everyone can enjoy this crispy, flavorful chicken.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover Mustard Fried Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use an oven or skillet to bring back the crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the coating soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze the fried chicken for up to 2 months. Place the chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F until hot and crispy, about 20-25 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat leftover chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s heated through and the coating becomes crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet with a little oil to retain its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs, but the frying time will be shorter. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pieces.

2. Can I make the marinade without mustard?

Mustard is key to the recipe’s signature flavor, but if you need a substitute, you could try using a combination of mayo, lemon juice, and spices.

3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes or until crispy and fully cooked, turning halfway through for even crisping.

4. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

5. Can I freeze the chicken after it’s been fried?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken after it’s been fried. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

6. Can I use a different oil for frying?

You can use any frying oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.

7. Is the mustard flavor strong in the chicken?

The mustard flavor is noticeable but not overpowering. It provides a tangy undertone that complements the crispy coating and savory seasoning.

8. Can I add other spices to the crust?

Yes, feel free to experiment by adding your favorite spices like onion powder, thyme, or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for added depth of flavor.

9. How can I make the crust even crunchier?

For an extra crispy crust, try double dredging the chicken or using a combination of panko breadcrumbs and flour for the crust.

10. What are the best side dishes to serve with this fried chicken?

Mustard Fried Chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or a simple garden salad. For a bit of heat, you can also serve it with a side of hot sauce or honey.

Conclusion

Mustard Fried Chicken is a flavorful and crispy twist on the classic fried chicken, with a tangy mustard marinade that infuses the meat with delicious flavor. The seasoned crust adds a satisfying crunch while the chicken remains juicy and tender on the inside. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a special gathering, or a casual meal, this recipe will quickly become a new favorite. Try it today and enjoy the unique, irresistible flavor of mustard fried chicken!

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