Fried chicken is a timeless comfort food that brings people together with its crispy exterior and juicy interior. A critical element in achieving that signature crunch is the egg wash. This article explores everything you need to know about making fried chicken with an egg wash. From the perfect ingredients to step-by-step instructions, tips, and frequently asked questions, you’ll leave here ready to cook your best batch yet.

Ingredients for the Perfect Fried Chicken Egg Wash Recipe

To make delicious Southern fried chicken, you’ll need a combination of simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what goes into the recipe:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 whole fryer chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 3 cups buttermilk
• 1 tsp seasoned salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Optional: 1 tsp hot sauce (for a spicy kick)

For the Seasoned Flour

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp seasoned salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For the Egg Wash

• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp hot sauce
• ½ tsp seasoned salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For Frying

• 6–8 cups vegetable oil or peanut oil

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fried Chicken Egg Wash Recipe

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Marinate:
   • Season the chicken pieces with 1 tsp seasoned salt and ½ tsp black pepper.
   • Place them in a large bowl and cover with 2½ cups of buttermilk.
   • Add a dash of hot sauce if desired.
   • Cover and refrigerate overnight (minimum 4 hours) to tenderize and infuse flavor.
2. Remove from Marinade:
   • Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard the marinade.

2. Prepare the Coating Station

1. Seasoned Flour:
   • In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Egg Wash:
   • In another shallow dish, whisk eggs, ½ cup buttermilk, hot sauce, seasoned salt, and black pepper until smooth.

3. Coat the Chicken

1. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.
2. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Return the chicken to the flour mixture, pressing lightly to create a thick, crispy coating.
4. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet to rest for 30 minutes. This helps the breading adhere during frying.

4. Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet to 350°F. Use a fry thermometer to maintain the temperature.
2. Fry chicken pieces in batches, starting with dark meat (which takes longer to cook).
3. Cook for 10–15 minutes per side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Transfer cooked chicken to a wire rack over a baking sheet. Keep it warm in a 200°F oven while frying the remaining pieces.

5. Rest and Serve

• Allow fried chicken to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Pair it with homestyle sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits for the ultimate meal.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving (1 piece of fried chicken):

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken

• Season Every Layer: Flavor each step, from the chicken to the egg wash to the flour coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep oil between 325°F–350°F. Adjust the heat as needed.
• Set the Breading: Rest breaded chicken for 30 minutes before frying for a crispy coating.
• Use Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture enhances the crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an egg wash do for fried chicken?

Egg wash acts as an adhesive, helping the flour coating stick to the chicken. It also adds richness to the crust.

Can I make fried chicken without buttermilk?

Yes! Use whole milk mixed with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk.

What oil is best for frying chicken?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, such as peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil, work best.

How can I keep fried chicken crispy?

Place fried chicken on a wire rack to drain excess oil and prevent sogginess. Avoid paper towels.

Can I freeze fried chicken?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer for the best results.

Reviews and Community Praise

Our fried chicken recipe has garnered rave reviews:

• “This is the best fried chicken I’ve ever made! The egg wash made the crust perfectly crispy.” – Sarah M.
• “The seasoning layers are a game-changer. Everyone loved it at dinner!” – James T.

Southern-Style Sides to Serve with Fried Chicken

Complete your meal with these classic sides:

• Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
• Homestyle Green Beans and Potatoes
• Fluffy Southern Biscuits
• Double Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese

Conclusion

Mastering fried chicken with an egg wash is all about attention to detail: seasoning every layer, using the right ingredients, and frying with care. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a weekend cookout, this recipe is sure to impress. Serve it alongside your favorite Southern sides for an unforgettable feast.