How to Double Fry Chicken for Maximum Crunch and Juiciness

Crispy, juicy fried chicken is one of life’s greatest pleasures. But with traditional single-frying, it can be hard to get the right balance of soft, juicy meat wrapped in a very crunchy coating. That’s where double-frying chicken comes in—it gives the chicken levels of crispiness and juicyness that will make your taste buds sing!

In this comprehensive guide we’ll explain what double frying is why it works so well, how to do it properly, and share tips for frying chicken like a pro. Let’s get cracking to unlock the secrets to the crispiest, crunchiest fried chicken you’ve ever tasted!

What is Double Frying Chicken?

Double frying chicken refers to frying the chicken in two separate stages

1. The first fry cooks the chicken through and begins crisping the coating.

2. After resting, the chicken is fried again at a higher temperature to achieve an insanely crispy crust.

This two-step process cooks the chicken all the way through without drying it out too much and also makes the crunch factor higher. This makes chicken that is moist and tender on the inside and very crispy and crackly on the outside.

Why Double Fry Chicken?

You have a lot more control over the doneness and texture of chicken when you fry it twice instead of once. Here’s why it works so well:

• The first fry at a lower temp cooks the chicken through gently without over-browning it.

• The rest period allows moisture to continue evaporating from the skin and coating.

• The second fry at a higher temp quickly crisps up the exterior.

• Less oil is absorbed during the shorter second fry, keeping it extra crispy.

Single frying can’t achieve the same level of crunch while keeping the meat as moist. It also tends to absorb more oil. Double frying is the fried chicken secret you’ve been missing!

How to Double Fry Chicken Step-By-Step

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked, shatteringly crisp double fried chicken every time:

Prep the Chicken

• Pat chicken dry – this helps the coating stick.

• Generously season with salt, pepper, spices, etc.

• You can marinate it beforehand for extra flavor.

Make the Coating

• Whisk together flour, spices, etc. for dredging.

• Make any wet batter if using.

• Set up breading station with dry mix, wet batter, more dry mix.

Coat the Chicken

• Dredge chicken pieces in flour mix, wet batter, then back into flour.

• Press coating on firmly so it adheres.

First Fry

• Heat oil to 275-300°F in deep fryer or heavy pot.

• Fry chicken 8-12 minutes until cooked through (165°F internal temp).

Rest

• Drain chicken on a wire rack and let rest 10+ minutes.

• Residual heat keeps cooking and moisture evaporates.

Second Fry

• Reheat oil to 350-375°F.

• Fry chicken 2-4 more minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve

• Drain chicken on wire rack again to remove excess oil.

• Enjoy immediately! The crispy coating will impress.

Tips for Double Frying Chicken Like a Pro

To master the technique, keep these tips in mind:

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken works best – bones distribute heat, skin crisps up. Go for thighs or drumsticks.

• Use oil with a high smoke point like peanut or vegetable oil.

• Let oil return to temp between fries – don’t rush it.

• Don’t overcrowd the pot – fry in batches for even cooking.

• Use a thermometer to accurately monitor oil temp.

• Let chicken rest before second fry – don’t skip this step!

• Keep chicken warm after frying so the crust stays crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between single and double fried chicken?

Double frying makes the coating insanely crispy compared to single frying. The two-step process controls the temperature better for maximum crunch.

Can I reuse the oil for both fries?

Yes, just strain out any debris after the first fry. Reusing oil is more efficient.

My chicken browned too fast on the first fry – what do I do?

Lower the oil temp slightly if it browns too quickly. The first fry should gently cook it through without much browning.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after frying?

Drain chicken well on a rack after frying. Keep it warm in a low oven without covering it to keep the crust crispy.

Can I double fry frozen chicken?

It’s best not to – the uneven cooking can make it less crispy. Always thaw chicken fully before frying.

How long does double fried chicken last?

Properly stored in the fridge, double fried chicken will stay fresh 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture.

Get Crackin’ on Your Best Fried Chicken Ever!

There you have the insider tips and techniques to make the crispiest, crunchiest, juiciest fried chicken you’ve ever tasted! Satisfy your fried chicken craving by double frying for finger lickin’ perfection. Now get crackin’ to enjoy this greaseless southern favorite!