Creating a dish of crispy chicken with French fries at home is a classic, beloved recipe that’s both comforting and delicious. Here’s how to make it, ensuring your chicken is juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, paired with golden, crispy French fries.
Ingredients:
FOR THE CRISPY CHICKEN:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Olive oil, for brushing
FOR THE FRENCH FRIES:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled
- Cold water, for soaking
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
PREPARE THE CHICKEN:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with this mixture.
- Pan Sear: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet. Cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Bake: Flip the chicken thighs so they are skin-side up and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
PREPARE THE FRENCH FRIES:
- Cut and Soak Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into thin strips, about 1/4 inch wide. Soak the potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps in getting them crispier.
- Dry Potatoes: After soaking, drain the water and pat the potatoes dry with paper towels. Removing as much moisture as possible is key to crispy fries.
- Heat Oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- Fry in Batches: Fry the potato strips in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil’s temperature and make the fries soggy. Fry until golden and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per batch.
- Drain and Season: Transfer the fries to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season with salt while still hot.
Serve:
Arrange the crispy chicken thighs and golden French fries on a serving platter. You might want to serve this classic dish with ketchup, mayo, or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. A side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad can add a refreshing contrast to the meal.
This crispy chicken with French fries recipe is perfect for a weekend treat, game day, or whenever you crave something deeply satisfying and deliciously comforting. Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!