Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful Marinade

If you’re looking for a fried chicken recipe that’s full of flavor and has a crispy, golden crust, Mustard Fried Chicken is the answer! The tangy mustard marinade infuses the chicken with a unique, zesty flavor that perfectly complements the savory seasonings in the crust. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a picnic, or just because you love fried chicken, this dish is sure to impress. The crispy, crunchy crust holds up well, making every bite a perfect balance of flavor and texture. This recipe will make your fried chicken experience stand out, with the mustard adding a unique twist to a classic favorite!

The mustard marinade adds a tangy kick to the chicken, making it more flavorful than traditional fried chicken recipes. It also helps tenderize the meat.

2. Crispy, Golden Crust

The seasoned flour crust gives the chicken that perfect crispy texture that everyone loves. It’s golden, crunchy, and stays crispy even after cooling.

3. Simple Ingredients

All the ingredients are easy to find in your kitchen. No complicated seasonings or expensive ingredients, just pantry staples that bring big flavor.

4. Moist and Juicy Chicken

Thanks to the mustard marinade, the chicken stays juicy and tender on the inside while the outside remains crispy and flavorful.

5. Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a weekend treat, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this fried chicken recipe is versatile and will satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade:

6 pounds chicken pieces with bones
1 cup yellow prepared mustard
1 tablespoon seasoned salt
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes

Chicken Crust:

3 cups flour
2 teaspoons seasoned 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 chili powder to the marinade for an extra spicy kick.
Boneless Option: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer a quicker cooking time or want to avoid bones.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
Baking Option: If you prefer baking over frying, place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix together the mustard, seasoned salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and dried parsley flakes. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating

In a separate shallow bowl, combine the flour, seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, remove each piece from the mustard marinade and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated, pressing the flour mixture onto the chicken to form a thick crust.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the oil. Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer the pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve the fried chicken hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F) to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy. You can use a thermometer to check the oil temperature.
Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. If you’re short on time, marinating for at least 2 hours will still give great results.
Crispy Coating: To get an extra crispy coating, double coat the chicken. After dredging the chicken in the flour, dip it back into the mustard marinade and then coat it in flour again before frying.
Resting After Frying: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure the chicken stays moist.

How to Serve

Classic Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a classic Southern-style meal.
Dipping Sauces: Offer dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
With a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter, balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven to keep the crust crispy.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooled fried chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer the chicken to a freezer bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used, but adjust the frying time accordingly since boneless chicken cooks faster.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F for fully cooked chicken.

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

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

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

Yes, you can use Dijon mustard, spicy brown mustard, or even honey mustard for a different flavor profile.

5. How can I make the chicken less greasy?

Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, and make sure the oil is at the right temperature to prevent the chicken from absorbing excess oil.

6. Can I use chicken tenders instead of whole pieces?

Yes, chicken tenders cook more quickly and will still absorb the great flavors of the mustard marinade.

7. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight will give even more flavor.

8. Can I make this recipe without frying?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for a healthier alternative, but it may not have the same crispy texture as frying.

9. Can I freeze the marinated chicken before cooking it?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before frying.

10. What can I serve with mustard fried chicken?

You can serve it with mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Mustard Fried Chicken is a delicious and flavorful twist on traditional fried chicken. The mustard marinade ensures the chicken is tender and juicy while the crispy coating adds the perfect crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy crispy, flavorful fried chicken that’s full of personality!