Yes, you can add baking powder to flour for fried chicken. Using baking powder in your flour mixture can help create a lighter and crispier coating on the fried chicken.
When you add baking powder to the flour, it produces carbon dioxide gas upon contact with moisture (such as the moisture on the chicken's surface). This gas creates small air pockets in the flour coating, resulting in a lighter, more delicate texture once the chicken is fried.
Here's a simple way to prepare the flour mixture for fried chicken, including baking powder:
Ingredients:
- Chicken pieces (e.g., drumsticks, thighs, wings, etc.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: Other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, etc.
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with baking powder. A common ratio is 1 teaspoon of baking powder per 1 cup of flour, but you can adjust this based on your preference.
Season the flour mixture with salt, black pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste.
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Dredge the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure they are evenly coated. You can also shake off any excess flour.
Allow the breaded chicken to rest for a few minutes before frying to let the coating adhere well.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to about 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C).
Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they are not overcrowded in the frying pan, for even cooking.
Fry until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Once done, transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil.
Adding baking powder to the flour for fried chicken can elevate the texture and overall quality of the dish. Enjoy your delicious homemade fried chicken!