Growing up in Chicago, my kitchen was always bustling with the comforting aroma of sizzling delights, especially when my babcia was in town. She had this magical way of turning the simplest ingredients into a feast fit for royalty. One of my fondest memories is of her teaching me the art of frying—her hands deftly working the dough, while I watched in awe. Fast forward to today, with two kids of my own, Ella and Peter, I find myself reminiscing about those warm, crispy bites. But as a mom navigating the world of dietary needs, I’ve had to tweak some of those beloved recipes. Enter my crispy gluten-free fried creation. It’s a nod to my Polish roots, with a modern twist that fits our family’s lifestyle perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crispy gluten-free fried dish is everything you want in a comfort food—crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for those who need to avoid gluten but still crave that satisfying crunch. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a spontaneous family gathering. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s both delicious and accommodating to various dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1 cup gluten-free flour blend
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Gradually add the sparkling water to the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth batter.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each chicken tender into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and carefully place it into the hot oil.
- Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per batch.
- Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
For the crispiest results, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A thermometer can help ensure it’s at the right temperature. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fried chicken. If you’re new to gluten-free cooking, remember that the batter might behave slightly differently than traditional flour batters, but don’t worry—it’ll still be delicious!
When I make this recipe, my go-to tool is the Silicone Utensils Set. They make flipping and handling the chicken a breeze without scratching my pans. And for perfectly even cuts, I rely on my trusty MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife. It’s sharp, sturdy, and makes prep work feel like a breeze.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re not a fan of chicken, this batter works beautifully with fish or vegetables. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. If you’re avoiding cornstarch, arrowroot powder is a great substitute that will still give you that desired crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy gluten-free fried chicken pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a true comfort food experience, serve it with mashed potatoes or coleslaw. A cold glass of lemonade or iced tea makes an ideal beverage companion, balancing the savory flavors with a refreshing touch.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using. Fried chicken can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain its crispiness.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are great for frying as they have high smoke points and won’t impart any unwanted flavors to your dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a piece of crispy fried chicken, especially when it’s gluten-free and made with love. I hope this recipe brings a little bit of my family’s kitchen to yours, filling it with laughter, warmth, and the irresistible smell of something delicious frying up. Don’t forget to share your creations with us!
👉 I hope you loved making this crispy gluten-free fried chicken—it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re getting a hug from the inside. For more delightful recipes, check out my Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan, Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Classic Coleslaw. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group—and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken: 8 Irresistible Recipes
A deliciously crispy gluten-free fried chicken that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Gradually add the sparkling water to the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth batter.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each chicken tender into the batter, allowing excess to drip off, and carefully place it into the hot oil.
- Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per batch.
- Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.