What to Season Fried Chicken With?
Introduction
Fried chicken – the classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you’re a Southern aficionado or a global foodie, seasoned fried chicken is a staple that can brighten up any meal. But when it comes to seasoning, the world of possibilities can be overwhelming. With the right combination of herbs, spices, and other seasonings, you can elevate your fried chicken game and create a dish that’ll leave everyone wanting more. In this article, we’ll explore the most popular ways to season fried chicken, from simple to complex, and provide you with tips and tricks to help you achieve a flawless fried chicken experience.
BASIC SEASONINGS
Of course, when it comes to seasoned fried chicken, you can’t go wrong with the basics. Here are some classic flavor combinations that never fail:
- Garlic and Paprika**}: Mix minced garlic with smoked or sweet paprika for a savory-sweet flavor profile. Simple, yet effective.
- Oregano and Thyme**}> Blend dried oregano and thyme for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor that pairs well with herbal notes.
- Black Pepper and Salt: The classic seasoning duo that forms the foundation of many fried chicken recipes Don’t skip these two essential salt and pepper.
HERBS AND ZESTS
Now that you’ve got the basics covered, it’s time to add some extra oomph to your fried chicken with herbs and zests. Here are some popular pairings:
- Italian Seasoning**, Basil, and Lemon Zest**: Mix dried Italian seasoning with fresh or dried basil and lemon zest for a bright, citrusy note.
- Cilantro Lime**}: Combine chopped fresh cilantro with lime zest and juice (optional) for a fresh Mexican-inspired flavor.
SPICE-TACULAR OPTIONS
For an extra kick, try adding a dash of heat to your fried chicken:
- Cayenne Pepper and Ginger**: Mix ground cayenne with minced ginger for a spicy-sweet flavor.
- Smoked Gouda and Chili Flakes**: Combine grated smoked gouda with chili flakes for an umami-rich, tongue-tingling experience>
FOOD-SCIENCE FRIENDLY SEASONINGS
Who says seasonings have to break the bank? Here are some inexpensive, food-science-favored options:
- Potash**: A natural mineral from the potassium family, potash is a game-changer for dry-fried chicken. Mix potash with flour or cereal crumbs for a crispy, tender patty.
TABLE OF SEASONING COMBINATIONS
Here are some pre-mixed seasoning blend combinations to get you started:
| Seasoing Combination | Description | Image |
|---|
- Southern Comfort : Garlic, Paprika, Thyme, Black Pepper, Salt | Buttermilk Fried Chicken
- Buffalo Style : Cayenne Pepper, Ranch Dressing Mix, Garlic Salt | Spicy Fried Chicken
- Citrus-Herb : Lemon Zest, Italian Seasoning, Garlic, Salt | Herbs de Provence Fried Chicken