Mustard Fried Chicken – A Tangy, Crispy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Mustard Fried Chicken is a flavor-packed twist on the beloved Southern fried chicken. The key to this dish lies in the marinade, where chicken pieces are soaked in a zesty yellow mustard mixture, which not only infuses the chicken with a tangy flavor but also helps the seasoning adhere perfectly to the chicken. The crispy golden crust, made from a seasoned flour mixture, ensures each bite is satisfying and delicious. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken inside with a crunchy, flavorful coating outside.

Mustard Fried Chicken is ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or when you’re craving a fried chicken dish with a bit more flair. The mustard marinade acts as both a flavor enhancer and a binder for the breading, ensuring that every bite is packed with both flavor and crunch. Whether you’re a fan of traditional fried chicken or looking for a new twist, this Mustard Fried Chicken recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Profile

The mustard marinade brings a tangy depth of flavor to the chicken, elevating the traditional fried chicken experience.

2. Crispy, Golden Crust

The combination of seasoned flour and frying creates an irresistibly crispy crust that’s crunchy and flavorful with every bite.

3. Tender and Juicy Chicken

The chicken stays tender and juicy on the inside, thanks to the mustard marinade, which helps to keep moisture locked in while frying.

4. Easy to Prepare

With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require any special cooking techniques.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday meal, or casual get-together, Mustard Fried Chicken is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

• 6 pounds chicken pieces (with bones)
• 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

Chicken Crust

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons season salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• Oil for frying

Variations

• Spicy Mustard Fried Chicken: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mustard marinade for a spicier kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free while still enjoying the crispy crust.
• Buttermilk Marinade: For a richer flavor, substitute the yellow mustard with buttermilk in the marinade and follow the same steps to create a different variation of fried chicken.
• Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the seasoning mix for added flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix the yellow mustard, season salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and parsley flakes. Place the chicken pieces in the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the flour, season salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

After marinating the chicken, remove the pieces from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Cook for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If the oil is too hot, the crust may burn before the chicken cooks through.
• Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the chicken. After the first coat of flour, dip it back into the mustard marinade and coat it again with the seasoned flour.
• Resting the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even juicier.

How to Serve

Mustard Fried Chicken pairs perfectly with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or a simple green salad. Serve with a side of hot sauce or a creamy dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the chicken has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to ensure the skin remains crispy.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover fried chicken for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the pieces in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven directly from the freezer, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of the reheating process.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts or thighs. However, boneless pieces may cook faster than bone-in chicken, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, for a healthier alternative, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

3. Can I make the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mustard marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just marinate the chicken before frying.

4. What type of oil should I use for frying?

Use oils with high smoke points, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, for frying. Avoid using olive oil as it has a lower smoke point.

5. Can I use a different mustard for the marinade?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of mustard, such as Dijon or spicy brown mustard, for a variation in flavor.

6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

7. Can I freeze the fried chicken?

Yes, fried chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

8. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or hot sauce to the mustard marinade for a spicy kick.

9. Can I make the mustard marinade without parsley?

Yes, you can omit the parsley or substitute it with other herbs like thyme or oregano if you prefer.

10. Can I skip the flour dredging step?

For a lighter, gluten-free version, you can skip the flour dredging and use cornmeal instead, though this will change the texture of the crust.

Conclusion

Mustard Fried Chicken is a deliciously tangy and crispy take on traditional fried chicken. The mustard marinade ensures that the chicken is flavorful, juicy, and tender, while the seasoned flour crust creates the perfect crunchy exterior. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or as part of a larger meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give this flavorful fried chicken a try and enjoy a new twist on a Southern classic!

Print