Batter-Dipped Crunchy Fried Chicken

Julie B's Hive's Note:

"365 Ways to Cook Chicken" and this is just one of them. Poaching cuts down on frying time later. I like to buy family packs of drumsticks and have them on hand over the weekend-makes for great snacking!

• Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 1 hrs

Ingredients:

Servings: 8

• 6 lbs chicken pieces, cut-up
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon celery seed
• 1 1/2 quarts vegetable oil (for frying)
• 2 cups pancake mix
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, well beaten

Directions:

1. Place chicken pieces in a large saucepan or flameproof casserole. Add 2 cups water, bay leaves, cloves, garlic, and celery seed. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 45 minutes, until chicken is tender. Remove chicken from stock. Strain and reserve 1 1/3 cups of the stock. Refrigerate chicken for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan or deep-fat fryer, heat all but 2 tablespoons vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine pancake mix, paprika, salt, pepper, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, eggs, and reserved chicken stock. Generously coat each piece of chicken with batter.
3. Fry chicken in batches without crowding 7-10 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Reviews

[redsonya1201]

I really enjoyed this recipe. Family liked it and it was easy to make. A keeper!

[2Bleu]

This is a very unique recipe that got mixed reviews at our dinner table (3, 4, and a 5). It was rated from "it's okay" to "this is as tender as KFC". The batter (we used Hungry Jack complete buttermilk pancake mix) has a nice and semi-sweet flavor to it. I did add poultry seasoning to the simmer and more garlic because we all love garlic. I love recipes that give a unique twist to everyday cooking techniques, and this one is easy-to-do and produces very tender chicken. I would recommend trying it for that alone. :)