Breading is a common and delicious technique used in cooking chicken, fish, and other meats. It involves coating the protein in seasoned flour, dipping it in a liquid (such as milk or eggs), and then coating it with breadcrumbs before frying or baking. However, some recipes suggest breading the chicken twice, which begs the question: is it really necessary, or just an extra step?
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits (and drawbacks) of double breading chicken. We’ll examine how double breading affects the texture, flavor, and cook time of the chicken, as well as what types of dishes are best suited for this technique. So, if you’re a fan of breaded chicken, read on to find out if you should be breading twice!
A Brief History of Double Breading Chicken
Double breading chicken, also known as double-dipping or double-coating, is a cooking technique that has been around for a long time. The origins of double breading can be traced back to Southern cuisine where fried chicken is a staple food. The traditional method of double breading chicken involves dipping the chicken in seasoned flour, then dipping it in a mixture of beaten eggs and milk, and finally coating it again with seasoned flour or breadcrumbs before it is fried.
The technique of double breading chicken became popular in the 20th century, during the rise of fast food chains. Fast food restaurants like KFC and Popeye’s loved the additional layer of crispy coating the double breading provided. It has since become a classic method of preparing fried chicken, and has even spread to other types of meats and vegetables. However, despite its popularity, some people question whether double breading chicken is really necessary.
Comparing Single and Double-Breaded Chicken
When it comes to breading chicken, the age-old debate between single and double-breading rages on. While single-breading involves coating the chicken in a layer of seasoned flour or breadcrumbs, double-breading involves dipping the chicken in egg wash and breadcrumbs twice.
Supporters of single-breading argue that it results in a lighter, crispier texture that allows the flavors of the chicken to shine through. However, double-breading proponents point out that the extra layer of crumbs creates a thicker, crunchier coating that retains more moisture and flavor. Ultimately, the choice between single and double-breading comes down to personal preference and the desired outcome based on the recipe. It’s worth trying both methods to see which suits your taste buds best, as each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
Benefits of Double Breading Chicken
Double breading is a technique that requires coating chicken in flour, dipping it in egg wash, and then coating it again in flour before frying or baking. Many chefs swear by this technique and claim that it results in significantly juicier and more flavorful chicken. The benefits of double breading are numerous. Firstly, it creates a thicker, more consistent crust that provides a satisfying crunch with each bite. The added layer of coating also helps to seal in moisture, ensuring that the chicken stays tender and juicy throughout the cooking process.
Double breading also allows you to experiment with a wider variety of flavors and textures. By incorporating different seasonings and spices into each layer of breading, you can create a more complex flavor profile and tailor your chicken to your specific tastes. Additionally, double breading can be a great way to disguise any mistakes or imperfections in your initial breading. Overall, while it may require a bit of extra effort, double breading is well worth the end result – perfectly crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken that will leave everyone at the table satisfied.
Potential Drawbacks of Double Breading Chicken
While double breading chicken may seem like a surefire way to get crispy, flavorful chicken, there are potential drawbacks to this technique. One major issue is that it can lead to an excessively thick coating. When the breading is too thick, it can overwhelm the flavor of the chicken and result in a texture that is too heavy and dense. Additionally, a thick coating can absorb more oil during frying, making the chicken greasier and less healthy.
Another potential drawback of double breading is that it can be time-consuming and can require more ingredients. Double breading chicken requires two separate bowls of egg and flour (or other breading ingredients), which can be messy and can result in wasted ingredients. Additionally, if the chicken is not properly dried between breading layers, it can clump together and create an uneven coating, resulting in a less attractive final product. Ultimately, while double breading can result in delicious and crispy chicken, it may not always be worth the extra time and effort required.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Double Breading Chicken
Double breading chicken is an excellent way to achieve a crispy, golden crust that holds up well. However, it can be tricky to perfect this technique. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your double-breaded chicken comes out perfectly every time.
First, it’s essential to properly season your chicken before breading it. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides, or add your favourite spices to infuse the meat with more flavour. Additionally, patting the chicken dry with paper towels before breading helps the coating adhere better. Finally, using one hand for wet ingredients (such as buttermilk or egg) and the other hand for dry ingredients helps avoid making a sticky mess. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to perfectly double breaded chicken in no time.
Best Seasonings to Use for Double Breading Chicken
When it comes to double breading chicken, choosing the right seasoning can make a world of difference in the flavor profile of your dish. While classic seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder are always a safe bet, adding a touch of creativity to your recipe can elevate it to new heights.
One popular seasoning for double breaded chicken is paprika. This spice adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that complements the crispy texture of the breading. Another great option is cayenne pepper, which adds a bit of heat for those who love a spicy kick. Other herbs and spices like thyme, oregano, and parsley can bring a fresh element to the dish. Ultimately, the best seasoning for your double breaded chicken depends on your personal preferences and the flavor profile you’re aiming to achieve.
Recipes for Delicious Double-Breaded Chicken Meals
Double-breading chicken is a great way to achieve that crispy, crunchy texture that we all crave. It adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The good news is that it’s easy to achieve and there are a multitude of delicious recipes that you can try.
One recipe you can try is the classic double-breaded fried chicken. Simply dredge the chicken in seasoned flour, dip it in an egg wash, and then coat it with seasoned breadcrumbs. Fry it until it’s golden brown and serve it with your favorite sides. Another option is to make double-breaded chicken nuggets by cutting chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, then breading them twice and baking them in the oven. These are perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. So go ahead, try out these recipes and enjoy the deliciousness of double-breaded chicken in your own home!
Wrapping Up
Breading chicken twice can result in a crispier and more flavorful fried chicken. The double coating of flour, egg, and breadcrumb adds an extra layer of crunch to the texture of the chicken while also enhancing the taste. However, it is important to note that breading chicken twice is not necessary for all types of fried chicken. It is best suited for thicker cuts of chicken or when making Southern-style fried chicken.
In summary, breading chicken twice can be a great technique to use when frying chicken. It can elevate the flavor and texture of the dish, providing a delicious and satisfying meal. However, it is not a required step in all fried chicken recipes, and it may not be worth the extra effort for some dishes. Ultimately, the choice to bread chicken twice or not will depend on the desired outcome and personal preference.