If you’re craving a dish that’s crispy, tangy, and bursting with flavor, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe. The magic lies in a vibrant mustard marinade that tenderizes the chicken and infuses each bite with a subtle kick, while the herbed, seasoned flour coating delivers a crunchy, golden crust that’s impossible to resist. It’s comfort food elevated with a zesty twist, perfect for family dinners or impressing friends with something a little different but utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe balances flavors and textures skillfully. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the mustard bringing that signature tang, or the blend of spices creating a savory, aromatic crust that makes every bite sing.
- 6 pounds chicken pieces with bones: Using drumsticks and thighs gives you juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender during frying.
- 1 cup yellow prepared mustard: The star marinade ingredient adds tanginess and helps the seasoning stick to the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon season salt: Enhances overall taste with a balanced salty and savory note.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, slightly pungent undertone.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper: Gives the perfect touch of heat to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes: Introduces a mild herbal freshness.
- 3 cups flour: Creates the crispy coating essential for that delightful crunch.
- 2 teaspoons season salt: Sprinkled into the flour for extra seasoning in every bite.
- 2 teaspoons black pepper: Balances the flour mixture with a bit of spicy depth.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Boosts flavor inside the crunchy crust.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Intensifies color and smoky notes in the coating.
How to Make Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by creating the marinade, combining yellow mustard with season salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and parsley flakes in a large bowl. This mixture not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses it with a bright, savory flavor that will shine through the crispy crust. Toss the chicken pieces in the marinade until each ones is thoroughly coated, then cover and refrigerate for at least two hours. For the best results, letting the chicken soak overnight allows those bold flavors to fully develop.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
While the chicken marinates, mix the flour with season salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a large shallow dish. This seasoned flour blend is where the crispy, golden crust begins. Each spice adds depth—paprika brings color, garlic powder amps up flavor, and the pepper gives a little kick. When the chicken is ready, dredge each piece well, making sure to shake off any excess flour so the crust stays light and crunchy, not clumpy.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat your oil to about 350°F or 175°C—using a deep fryer or a large skillet works just fine. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, taking care not to crowd the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and cause soggy crusts. Fry the chicken for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally so each side crisps evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken turns a gorgeous golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken and let it rest on paper towels to drain any excess oil, preserving that perfect crunch.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe hot and fresh, savoring the juicy meat and crispy coating at its peak. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces or sides to round out the meal beautifully.
How to Serve Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a dusting of smoked paprika adds a splash of color and an extra hint of flavor. A wedge of lemon on the side provides a delightful citrus brightness that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with classic comfort sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or a crisp coleslaw. For a lighter option, a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans make excellent contributors to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken on rustic wooden boards with dipping bowls of honey mustard or spicy aioli. Or create a casual picnic vibe by plating with pickles and fresh buns to make mini fried chicken sandwiches. The mustard marinade gives the dish a vibrant personality that shines in inventive presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover mustard fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To preserve its crispiness, place a paper towel underneath the chicken to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the chicken, cool it completely first. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Frozen fried chicken keeps well for up to three months, making it perfect for quick meals later on.
Reheating
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F to warm the chicken evenly while restoring its crispy crust. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the coating soggy. Reheating in a skillet over medium heat also works well for maintaining that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mustard for this Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe?
Definitely! While yellow prepared mustard is traditional and adds a mild tang, you can experiment with Dijon or spicy brown mustard for a bolder flavor. Just remember that stronger mustards will change the dish’s overall taste profile.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
Marinating overnight is ideal because it allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, making the chicken more tender and flavorful. However, if you’re short on time, two hours in the marinade will still deliver delicious results.
What oil is best for frying the chicken?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils handle the frying temperature well without imparting unwanted flavors and help achieve that perfect crispy crust.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or rice flour. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but your chicken will still be crispy and tasty.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 165°F (75°C). The chicken should also have clear juices and no pink near the bone, ensuring it’s safe and ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it combines the comfort of classic fried chicken with an exciting, tangy twist. It’s surprisingly simple yet packed with flavor, making it an awesome dish to share with loved ones any day of the week. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just discover your new signature fried chicken dish!
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Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Crispy, flavorful mustard fried chicken that’s marinated in a tangy mustard blend and perfectly seasoned flour, then fried to golden brown perfection. This classic Southern-inspired dish offers juicy, tender chicken with a savory crust that’s sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 6 pounds chicken pieces with bones (drumsticks, thighs, etc.)
- 1 cup yellow prepared mustard
- 1 tablespoon season salt
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
Coating
- 3 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons season salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine yellow mustard, 1 tablespoon season salt, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 tablespoon black pepper, and dried parsley flakes. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until each piece is completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
- Prepare the Flour Coating: In a large shallow dish or bowl, combine flour with 2 teaspoons season salt, 2 teaspoons black pepper, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, and 2 teaspoons paprika. Stir to evenly mix the seasoning with the flour.
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. One piece at a time, thoroughly coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour to ensure an even crust.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the chicken pieces for even frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding to maintain oil temperature. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve an even golden brown crust and to cook through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried chicken pieces from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease and keep the crust crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the mustard fried chicken hot alongside your favorite sides and dipping sauces for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Make sure oil temperature is steady at 350°F (175°C) for best frying results.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet to prevent soggy crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
