Make Little House on the Prairie Fried Chicken at Home
The waves of the future seem to be ever-changing, but one thing remains constant: our love for comfort food. And as someone who considers themselves a fried chicken fanatic, there’s nothing quite like a good old-fashioned recipe that reminds us of simpler times. That’s why I’m excited to share with you my Little House on the Prairie Fried Chicken Recipe.
If you’re familiar with the Little House on the Prairie television series or books, then you know how important food was to Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family. The recipes they served were often simple, but they were made with care and quality ingredients. This Little House on the Prairie Fried Chicken Recipe is no exception.
This recipe is inspired by Melissa Gilbert, who played Laura in the television series, and her cookbook called “My Prairie Cookbook: Memories and Frontier Food from My Little House to Yours.” It’s a classic Southern-style fried chicken recipe that has been passed down for generations and adapted for modern kitchens.
What makes it unique is that it includes a touch of cinnamon in the seasoning blend, which gives the chicken a subtle warmth and depth of flavor. And when paired with crispy, golden-brown skin and tender meat underneath, it’s sure to impress even fans of Colonel Sanders’ KFC.
So are you ready to transport yourself back to the days of the Little House on the Prairie with some true fried chicken goodness? Then let’s dive into this recipe and get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fried chicken fanatic, you won’t be able to resist this delicious recipe for “Fried Chicken (Little House on the Prairie)”! This recipe is a true homage to the famous television series and the little house books that inspired it.
But what sets this fried chicken recipe apart from other recipes is its unique twist – cinnamon! Yes, you read that right – cinnamon. The addition of cinnamon to this recipe not only adds an aromatic flavor but also complements the crispy and savory taste of the fried chicken.
Aside from being a nod to the iconic show, this dish is guaranteed to impress your guests with its juicy meat and crispy exterior. The combination of flour and spices create a perfect crust that’s both crunchy and delectable. Your family members and friends will undoubtedly crave for more!
Moreover, this recipe uses cider vinegar, which adds a subtle tanginess to balance the richness of the dish. This ingredient is a secret weapon that perfectly compliments the spiced crust.
Don’t just take my word for it! Melissa Gilbert, who played Laura Ingalls in “Little House on the Prairie,” even featured this recipe in her cookbook. So, if you’re ready to take your fried chicken game to a new wave future, then give this “Fried Chicken (Little House on the Prairie)” recipe a try!
Ingredient List
Before you start cooking, make sure to gather all the ingredients for this delicious Fried Chicken (Little House on the Prairie) Recipe. Here are the necessary ingredients:
For the chicken marinade:
- 1 cup cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 5 cups water
- 2 lbs chicken breast
For the flour mix:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
For frying the chicken:
- 6 cups of vegetable oil
For the pan gravy:
- 1/4 cup of the leftover oil from frying
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
All these items can be easily found in your pantry or at any grocery store. Remember to check if you have them beforehand in case you need to purchase something. Keep in mind that quality ingredients yield quality results, and this recipe is no exception. Make sure to choose fresh and high-quality chicken breast to ensure the best end result.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start frying up some delicious chicken. This recipe is relatively easy but requires a bit of patience.
Steps to Follow:
Step 1: Prep and Mix
- Start by washing your chicken pieces thoroughly and patting them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Mix it well.
- Sprinkle the mixture liberally on both sides of the chicken pieces, pressing it onto the meat.
Step 2: Fry
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Add your well-seasoned chicken pieces into the oil one at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry each piece for around 5-7 minutes on each side, adding additional oil or turning down the heat as needed, until they are crispy golden-brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Make Pan Gravy (Optional)
- Once all the chicken is cooked, use the same pan to make some delicious pan gravy.
- Remove any burnt bits from the skillet and place it over medium heat.
- Whisk in some additional flour, then pour in some milk or water along with cider vinegar.
- Stir constantly and cook until the gravy thickens up.
Enjoy Your Fried Chicken
Once you have made your crisp and succulent fried chicken, pair it with some classic Southern-style sides such as mashed potatoes, macaroni salad, steamed greens or cornbread. Or alternatively serve them up as finger food at your next outdoor gathering.
This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special – Little House on the Prairie style!
Substitutions and Variations
While the traditional recipe for Little House on the Prairie Fried Chicken calls for specific ingredients, there are a few substitutions and variations you can make to accommodate your tastes and dietary restrictions.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option or simply want to mix things up, consider swapping out the flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornmeal. This will give the fried chicken a unique texture and flavor.
For those who prefer a tangier taste, substitute some of the water in the brine with cider vinegar to add an acidic kick to your chicken. You can also experiment with different spices to create your own signature flavor, such as adding ginger or cumin to your flour mixture.
If you’re looking to make this traditional fried chicken recipe with a healthier twist, use skinless chicken breasts instead of drumsticks or thighs, and try baking them in the oven instead of frying. This will eliminate some of the excess oil from the dish while still retaining its classic flavor.
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a touch of sweetness to your cinnamon chicken recipe by using maple syrup instead of sugar in your brine. This little tweak will add a new dimension of flavor that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
No matter what substitutions or variations you choose to make, just remember that experimentation is key. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply a fried chicken fanatic, trying out new ingredients and techniques is the wave future of prairie food.
Serving and Pairing
Once the fried chicken is ready, the next step is to figure out how to serve it in the best possible way. This mouth-watering dish packs a punch of flavor and can be served with a variety of side dishes to complete the meal.
One classic pairing for this recipe is mashed potatoes — the creamy texture of the potatoes compliments the crispiness of the chicken so well, it’s quite irresistible. Another option is to pair it with a fresh and crisp garden salad, piled high with leafy greens, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and topped with a tangy dressing.
For those who prefer a more traditional southern-style meal, serving this fried chicken with macaroni and cheese can satisfy your craving. The golden crust on top of the macaroni and cheese beautifully complements the crispy texture of the fried chicken.
If you’re looking for something different, you can also try serving fried chicken with corn on the cob or buttery biscuits drizzled with honey. You could even go one step further by adding some collard greens or baked beans into your plate. These flavors are sure to take your taste buds on a ride they won’t forget.
For drinks, sodas like Coke or Pepsi could bring you back in time like you were sitting down to dinner at Nellie Oleson’s house right in Walnut Grove. However, some cold iced tea or beer might be as refreshing!
Whichever side you choose to pair this amazing fried chicken recipe will leave your guests wanting more. So why not grab your apron and put up your sleeves? It’s time to enjoy some authentic Little House on the Prairie cuisine!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about fried chicken is that it can keep well for a few days, making it an ideal dish to make ahead of time for events and gatherings. Fried chicken is typically at its best on the day it’s made, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
If you’re looking to make fried chicken ahead of time, the good news is that you can absolutely do so. Once the chicken has been fried, let it cool down completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. This will allow the skin to stay crispy and prevent sogginess.
When you’re ready to serve, there are a few ways to reheat your chicken that will help preserve its texture and flavor. First, avoid using the microwave as it can leave the skin soggy and rubbery. Instead, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated all the way through.
Alternatively, you can choose to re-fry your fried chicken in hot oil for a few minutes on each side until heated through again. This method will bring back some of the crispy texture lost during refrigeration and reheating but may not be as healthy as baking.
It’s important to note that storing your leftover chicken with a paper towel can help absorb any excess moisture, which will help maintain its crispy texture.
Overall, these make-ahead, storing and reheating tips will come handy when dealing with prairie-inspired comfort food classics like this recipe for fried chicken from Little House on the Prairie.
Tips for Perfect Results
As a fried chicken fanatic, I have tried countless recipes and experimented with various techniques to achieve perfectly crispy, juicy chicken. Whether you’re cooking for a party or just craving comfort food, here are my top tips for making the best Little House on the Prairie-inspired fried chicken.
1. Use the right flour
For the crispiest crust, I recommend using all-purpose flour. This type of flour has enough gluten to provide structure for the coating without creating a tough, chewy texture. Make sure to season your flour with salt (and other desired spices) before dredging your chicken to give it a well-rounded flavor.
2. Brine your chicken
Brining is the process of soaking meat in saltwater before cooking it. Not only does this help the chicken retain moisture, but it also adds flavor to every bite. For this recipe, I suggest mixing one cup of cider vinegar with four cups of water and adding two tablespoons of salt. Soak your chicken pieces in this mixture for at least an hour before frying.
3. Use bone-in chicken
Chicken breast may be convenient and easy to handle, but there’s no substitute for bone-in chicken when making true fried chicken. The bones help the meat cook more evenly and add extra flavor to the final product.
4. Get your oil hot
To achieve that perfect golden exterior, you want to make sure your oil is hot enough before adding your chicken. Heat up enough oil in a deep skillet or pot until it reaches 350-375°F (177-191°C). A good way to check if the oil is ready is to drop a pinch of flour into the pan – if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go.
5. Don’t overcrowd the pan
It might be tempting to throw all your chicken pieces into the pan at once, but this will only bring down the temperature of your oil and prevent the crust from getting crispy. Work in batches if needed and leave plenty of space between each piece.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be enjoying finger-licking good fried chicken that would make even Colonel Sanders jealous. Happy cooking!
FAQ
As you try out this classic Little House on the Prairie recipe, you may run into some questions or uncertainties. But no need to fret! We’ve got you covered with our frequently asked questions section. Here, you can find answers to common inquiries and cooking concerns. So, read on and cook with confidence!
How did Paula Patton fry chicken?
In a recent cooking video, Patton, who shares custody of her son Julian with her former spouse, singer Robin Thicke, was captured cleaning and preparing chicken by rinsing it thoroughly, covering it in flour, and frying it in avocado oil. Additionally, she seasoned it with Lawry’s seasoned salt, paprika, and pepper for an extra burst of flavor. This cooking method is sure to create a tasty and crispy dish.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Little House on the Prairie Fried Chicken recipe is a must-try for any fried chicken fanatic. This recipe has been around for decades and has become a staple in many households. As Melissa Gilbert, who played Laura Ingalls on the television series, put it: “It’s one of those things that you just don’t mess with. It’s perfect.”
This recipe is not just about the food itself, but it also represents a wave of nostalgia and a connection to a simpler time. As you cook this dish, you can imagine what life was like for Laura and her family in the late 1800s.
Moreover, this recipe offers versatility, as you can adjust the ingredients to your liking and experiment with different spices and variations. It can be served with mashed potatoes or paired with a refreshing salad for a light & healthy meal. The possibilities are endless!
So next time you’re in the mood for some true fried chicken, skip the KFC and opt for the Little House on the Prairie Fried Chicken instead. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later.
Fried Chicken (Little House on the Prairie) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 frying chicken, cut into pieces
- salt
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 2/3 cup flour
- oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and sprinkle with vinegar and salt.
- Cover with cold water and set aside (I put it in the fridge) for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- After 30 minutes (or so) heat the oil in a frying pan (I use a cast iron skillet) over medium/high heat. Let the oil come up 1/4 to 1/2 way up the sides of the pan.
- Drain chicken and, one at a time, coat with flour.
- Fry the chicken in hot oil until brown on all sides.
- You can either finish the chicken in oven or lower the heat, so it doesn't burn, and cook the chicken through in the pan.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!