The magic of Filipino Fried Chicken lies in its marination – a rich, tangy, and savory blend of buttermilk, soy sauce, and fish sauce that tenderizes the meat and infuses every bite with flavor. The double coating of flour and cornstarch ensures that golden, shatteringly crisp crust Filipinos adore.
This dish is a celebration of comfort food with a cultural twist, perfect for pairing with steaming white rice, a drizzle of gravy, or a simple vinegar dip for that authentic street-food feel. Whether for a family dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Full Recipe:
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2 lbs bone-in chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)
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2 cups buttermilk
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon fish sauce
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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½ cup cornstarch
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Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk well.
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Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
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In another bowl, mix flour and cornstarch. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge in the flour mixture until well coated.
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Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat (350°F / 175°C).
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Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
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Drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Serve hot with rice, gravy, or dipping sauce of choice.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time) | Cooking Time: 15 minutes per batch | Total Time: ~30 minutes active cooking
Kcal: ~420 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Filipino Fried Chicken: A Crispy, Flavorful Delight
Filipino fried chicken is a beloved dish that holds a special place in the hearts of many. Known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s a dish that brings people together, whether for family gatherings, celebrations, or as a comforting weeknight meal. This article will dive deep into the history, unique preparation methods, flavor profile, and best practices for making the ultimate Filipino fried chicken at home.
The Origins and Cultural Significance of Filipino Fried Chicken
Fried chicken has a long history in the Philippines, influenced by various cultures over the centuries. The Spanish introduced fried food to the islands during their colonization, and American influence further popularized fried chicken in the 20th century. However, Filipino fried chicken has a distinctive twist, characterized by its deliciously crispy coating, a result of marinating and a perfect flour-cornstarch mix.
In the Philippines, fried chicken is often considered a special dish, typically enjoyed during family gatherings, birthdays, or special occasions. It is commonly served in restaurants, from local fast food chains like Jollibee to more upscale Filipino eateries, and is often paired with steamed rice or a side of gravy. The dish is more than just a meal; it is an expression of Filipino hospitality, a symbol of warmth and togetherness.
The Unique Flavor Profile of Filipino Fried Chicken
One of the standout features of Filipino fried chicken is its flavor profile. What sets it apart from other fried chicken recipes is the marinade, which typically includes ingredients like soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic, and black pepper. This marinade infuses the chicken with savory, umami-rich flavors, making each bite both tender and flavorful. The addition of fish sauce, a staple in Filipino cuisine, gives the chicken a distinct depth that elevates its taste.
The marinade’s balance of salty, tangy, and savory notes is key to achieving the perfect Filipino fried chicken. The buttermilk or milk often used in the marinade helps tenderize the meat, ensuring the chicken remains juicy while the exterior gets delightfully crispy when fried.
Preparation Techniques for Perfect Filipino Fried Chicken
The preparation of Filipino fried chicken involves several key steps to ensure a crispy, flavorful result. First, marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor. The chicken is typically soaked in a mixture of buttermilk, soy sauce, fish sauce, and various spices. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, ensuring it cooks up juicy and succulent on the inside.
Once marinated, the chicken is coated in a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch. The combination of these two ingredients is essential to achieving that signature crispy, golden-brown coating that Filipino fried chicken is known for. The cornstarch helps create an extra crispy exterior, while the flour provides the structure for the coating to adhere to the chicken.
Frying the chicken is another important step. The oil temperature should be maintained at a steady 350°F (175°C) to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly. The chicken is fried in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can cause the oil temperature to drop and result in greasy, soggy chicken. The goal is to achieve a crispy, golden exterior with tender, juicy meat on the inside.
Serving Filipino Fried Chicken
In the Philippines, fried chicken is often served with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich, savory flavor. A classic pairing is steamed white rice, which acts as a neutral base to balance the boldness of the fried chicken. The rice soaks up the savory juices from the chicken, making each bite more satisfying.
Another popular accompaniment is gravy. The creamy, rich sauce complements the crispiness of the chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor. Some people prefer a vinegar-based dipping sauce, which provides a tangy contrast to the savory fried chicken. Additionally, Filipino fried chicken is sometimes served with pickled vegetables, which add a refreshing crunch and help cut through the richness of the chicken.
For a more festive meal, Filipino fried chicken can also be paired with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or fried plantains, depending on personal preference and the occasion. The versatility of the dish makes it easy to customize and serve alongside a variety of side dishes, ensuring that there’s something for everyone at the table.
Why Filipino Fried Chicken Is a Favorite
There are several reasons why Filipino fried chicken has become such a favorite. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The unique marinade and crispy coating make each bite a delightful experience, with the perfect balance of tender meat and crunchy exterior. The dish also has a comforting, homey quality that resonates with people across generations.
Filipino fried chicken is also incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as a casual meal at home, served at a family gathering, or even enjoyed as takeout from your favorite local eatery. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a go-to choice for many.
Moreover, the dish has a cultural significance that ties people together. Whether it’s a weekend meal with family or a celebratory feast, Filipino fried chicken brings people together to enjoy great food and create lasting memories.
Tips for Making the Best Filipino Fried Chicken at Home
To make the best Filipino fried chicken at home, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, marinate the chicken for several hours or even overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it will absorb. This step is essential for achieving that delicious, savory flavor that Filipino fried chicken is known for.
Next, don’t skip the flour and cornstarch mixture. This is what gives the chicken its signature crispiness. Be sure to coat the chicken thoroughly, pressing the mixture onto the surface to ensure that it sticks. This will result in a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up well during frying.
When frying the chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough to create that golden, crispy crust. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the chicken may burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. Maintaining a steady temperature is key to achieving the perfect fried chicken.
Lastly, be sure to let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack or paper towels after frying to allow any excess oil to drain off. This helps keep the chicken crispy and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Mastering
Filipino fried chicken is a delicious, flavorful dish that’s beloved for good reason. Its perfect balance of savory flavors, crispy coating, and tender meat make it a standout in Filipino cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying it with a side of rice and gravy or serving it up with a variety of sides, Filipino fried chicken is sure to impress.
By following the right preparation techniques, using quality ingredients, and perfecting the frying process, you can easily recreate this Filipino favorite in your own kitchen. With its versatility, rich flavors, and cultural significance, Filipino fried chicken is truly a dish worth mastering, whether for a special occasion or as a comforting weeknight meal.