You've gotta try smashed fried chicken! It's a Southern classic with a unique twist. The secret's in the technique – you smash the chicken after frying for a crispy, crunchy skin. The meat stays juicy and tender inside. There are lots of tasty variations, with spicy sambal chili paste and crispy fried shallots taking it over the top. Pair it with mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a perfect comfort food meal. It's easy to make at home, and you'll love the bold, mouthwatering flavors. Get ready for your new favorite fried chicken dish! If you’re looking for a new twist on a classic dish, this smashed fried chicken recipe is a must-try. The combination of crispy, crunchy skin and juicy, tender meat is unbeatable. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving some comfort food, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices and seasonings. Try out this crispy fried chicken recipe and prepare to be amazed by the delicious results!
Key Takeaways
- Smashed fried chicken is a unique fried chicken dish that originated from Southern cooking and Indonesian cuisine.
- The technique involves smashing the fried chicken pieces to enhance the crunchiness of the skin and tenderness of the meat.
- The recipe typically includes a spice-infused marinade, proper frying technique, and optional accompaniments like sambal chili paste and crispy fried shallots.
- Smashed fried chicken is a beloved comfort food worldwide, known for its contrast between the crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- The cooking process emphasizes techniques like maintaining optimal frying temperature and proper timing to achieve the desired texture and flavor.
History
The origins of smashed fried chicken can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when Southern cooks began experimenting with new techniques to create a crispier, more flavorful fried chicken.
They discovered that by smashing the chicken pieces after frying, the meat became more tender and the skin even crunchier. This innovative approach quickly gained popularity and became known as "smashed fried chicken" or "Ayam Penyet" in Indonesia.
The process of smashing the chicken is said to have evolved from traditional Indonesian cooking methods, where cooks would pound meat to tenderize it.
As the dish spread across Southeast Asia, local variations emerged, with different seasoning blends and cooking styles. In Indonesia, Ayam Penyet often features a spicy sambal sauce that perfectly complements the crispy, smashed chicken.
Today, smashed fried chicken has become a beloved comfort food, enjoyed by people of all ages.
The unique combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and bold flavors has made this dish a true crowd-pleaser, with variations popping up in restaurants and home kitchens around the world.
Recipe
Smashed Fried Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic fried chicken dish. The technique of smashing the chicken pieces before frying creates a unique, crispy texture that sets this recipe apart. The combination of the juicy, tender chicken interior and the shatteringly crisp exterior is simply irresistible.
This dish is a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family. The recipe is straightforward, but the results are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven with 2-3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Dredge the chicken thighs in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat them evenly. Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently smash each chicken thigh, flattening them slightly. This will help create the signature crispy texture.
Carefully add the smashed chicken thighs to the hot oil and fry for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.
For best results, serve the smashed fried chicken immediately, while it's hot and crispy. The contrast of the crunchy exterior and the juicy, tender interior is a true delight. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple salad.
Cooking Steps
First, let's marinate the chicken in a delightful spice mixture.
Next, you'll fry the chicken to golden perfection in hot oil.
Now, it's time to get hands-on – use a pestle to smash the fried chicken for a unique texture.
Serve it up with a zesty sambal chili paste and garnish with crispy fried shallots for an unforgettable experience.
Step 1. Marinate Chicken in Spice Mixture
Start by gathering a few simple ingredients for the spice mixture. You'll need garlic, ginger, coriander, cumin, and a few other aromatic spices. Give them a good mince or grate to release their bold flavors.
Now, add the spices to a bowl with some soy sauce, chili paste, and a splash of lime juice. Stir everything together until it forms a thick, flavorful marinade.
Next, add the chicken pieces to the bowl and use your hands to massage the marinade all over them. Make sure each piece is fully coated.
Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This allows the chicken to soak up all that wonderful seasoning.
When you're ready to fry, the chicken will be infused with an irresistible blend of savory, spicy, and tangy notes. Get ready for the smash-tastic fried chicken of your dreams!
Step 2. Fry Chicken in Hot Oil
Once the chicken has marinated, it's time to fry it up to perfection. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach 350°F, so use a food thermometer to monitor the temperature.
When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it's golden brown and crispy. Be careful – the oil will be very hot! Flip the chicken gently with tongs to avoid splashing.
Once the chicken is fried to a lovely golden brown, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess oil. Let the chicken cool for a minute or two, then use the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher to gently smash each piece.
This will create the signature "smashed" look and texture. Serve the smashed fried chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your perfectly crispy and flavorful ayam penyet!
Step 3. Smash Fried Chicken With Pestle
After frying the chicken to a lovely golden brown, it's time to smash each piece.
Grab a sturdy wooden pestle and position it over one of the fried chicken thighs. Apply firm, steady pressure and firmly smash down on the chicken, flattening it to about half its original thickness. You'll hear a satisfying crunch as the crust gives way.
Repeat this process with the remaining pieces of chicken, one by one.
The smashing action tenderizes the meat and creates an irresistible texture. The crispy skin gets delightfully crackly, while the interior stays juicy and tender.
Be sure to work carefully, as the hot oil can cause the chicken to splatter.
Once all the pieces are smashed, you're ready to serve this incredible Ayam Penyet.
Garnish with fresh herbs, spicy sambal, and steamed rice for a complete and authentic Indonesian meal. The combination of crunchy skin and succulent meat is sure to wow your family and friends.
Step 4. Serve With Sambal Chili Paste
To complete the meal, you'll want to prepare a vibrant sambal chili paste. This spicy condiment adds a delightful kick to the smashed fried chicken.
Start by gathering a few simple ingredients – fresh chilies, garlic, shallots, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
Roughly chop the chilies, garlic, and shallots, then combine them in a mortar. Use a pestle to mash and grind the ingredients into a coarse paste. This manual process helps release the flavors and aromas, creating a more authentic sambal.
Once you've achieved the desired texture, stir in a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more chilies for extra heat or lime for tartness.
Serve the vibrant sambal chili paste alongside the crispy, smashed fried chicken. The bold, spicy notes of the sambal perfectly complement the juicy, peppery chicken.
Enjoy this flavorful and truly satisfying meal!
Step 5. Garnish With Fried Shallots
In addition to the vibrant sambal chili paste, you'll want to prepare a batch of crispy fried shallots to garnish your smashed fried chicken. Slicing the shallots thinly is the key to achieving the perfect texture.
Once you've sliced them, rinse the shallots in cold water to remove any excess starch, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
Next, heat a few inches of oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the shallot slices and fry them until they're golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
Be sure to stir the shallots frequently to ensure even cooking. Drain the fried shallots on a paper towel-lined plate, and sprinkle them with a pinch of salt.
The crunchy, caramelized shallots will add a wonderful flavor and texture contrast to the juicy, tender smashed fried chicken.
Sprinkle them generously over the top of your dish for a truly irresistible presentation.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the key to mastering smashed fried chicken lies in striking the right balance between crispy skin and juicy meat. Once you've nailed the technique, you'll be able to whip up this tasty dish with ease.
The crispy, golden-brown exterior gives way to the tender, flavorful interior, creating a truly satisfying experience.
Don't be intimidated by the frying process – with a little practice, you'll be a pro in no time. Remember to handle the hot oil with care, and pay close attention to the cooking time to ensure your chicken is cooked through.
When it's all said and done, you'll be rewarded with a plate of irresistible smashed fried chicken that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Serve it up with your favorite sides for a complete and delicious meal. Get ready to savor every juicy, crunchy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ayam Penyet a Halal Dish?
Yes, ayam penyet is a halal dish. As long as the chicken is sourced from halal-certified suppliers and prepared in accordance with Islamic dietary guidelines, you can enjoy this delicious fried chicken dish without any concerns about its halal status.
Can Ayam Penyet Be Made Vegetarian?
Yes, you can certainly make a vegetarian version of this dish. Simply substitute the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative, and follow the same preparation method. The savory flavors can still be achieved without the animal protein.
How Long Does Ayam Penyet Keep?
Freshly made dishes typically last 3-4 days in the fridge. However, the exact shelf life of ayam penyet depends on how it's stored and prepared. To maximize its freshness, consume it within a couple of days for best quality and flavor.
Can Ayam Penyet Be Frozen?
Yes, you can freeze ayam penyet. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It'll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What Are the Health Benefits of Ayam Penyet?
You may enjoy the health benefits of this dish, as it's a good source of protein and can provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, the frying process may increase the fat and calorie content, so moderation is key.
Rina is passionate about the rich and diverse flavors of Indonesian cuisine. From fragrant nasi goreng to spicy rendang, Rina brings Indonesia’s vibrant and bold tastes to the Cook if Ya table. Her recipes are rooted in tradition but accessible to home cooks exploring Southeast Asian flavors.
