Stop Breadcrumbs From Falling Off Your Chicken With One Extra Step
If you’ve ever tried to bread chicken, you know how frustrating it can be when all of your hard work falls off during the cooking process. The crispy, golden crust is what makes breaded chicken so delicious, but if it doesn’t stick properly, you’re left with a disappointing meal. Fortunately, there is a simple solution to keep those breadcrumbs firmly adhered to your chicken. With just one extra step, you can enjoy perfectly coated chicken every time. In this article, we will explore this extra step in detail and guide you through the process to ensure your breaded chicken turns out fantastic.
The Importance of Properly Coating Chicken
Before diving into the solution, let’s understand why it is crucial to coat your chicken properly. When you bread chicken, you create a flavorful and crunchy outer layer that not only adds texture but also helps seal in the moisture of the meat. The breading acts as a protective barrier, preventing the chicken from drying out during the cooking process. It creates a delightful contrast between the tender meat and the crispy exterior. However, when the breading falls off, you lose all these benefits and your chicken can end up dry and disappointing.
Choosing the Right Breading Ingredients
The success of your breaded chicken starts with selecting the right breading ingredients. Traditional options include breadcrumbs, panko, or a mixture of the two. Breadcrumbs are finely ground and have a soft texture, whereas panko, Japanese-style breadcrumbs, are coarser and create a lighter, crunchier coating. Choose whichever texture you prefer or experiment with a combination to find your ideal coating.
The Extra Step: Dipping in an Egg Wash
Now, let’s get to the extra step that will ensure your breadcrumbs stay firmly attached to your chicken. Before you coat your chicken in the breadcrumbs, dip it in an egg wash. An egg wash acts as a natural adhesive, forming a sticky layer that helps the breading adhere to the meat. The egg also helps to create a beautiful, golden crust when cooked.
How to Make an Egg Wash:
To make an egg wash, crack one or two eggs into a shallow bowl or dish. Whisk the eggs until the yolks and whites are fully combined. For added flavor, season the egg wash with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. By seasoning the egg wash, you infuse the outer layer of your chicken with even more deliciousness.
The Breading Process
Now that you have your egg wash ready, it’s time to bread your chicken. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly coated chicken:
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Before breading, season your chicken with salt and pepper. This will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Step 2: Dredge in Flour
Coat your seasoned chicken in flour, ensuring all sides are covered. This will provide a dry surface for the egg wash to adhere to.
Step 3: Dip in Egg Wash
Submerge the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it is completely coated. Allow any excess egg wash to drip off.
Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs
Place your chicken in a bowl of breadcrumbs or panko and press firmly to ensure an even coating. Gently shake off any excess breadcrumbs.
Step 5: Rest and Set the Coating
Allow your breaded chicken to rest for a few minutes before cooking. This will help the breading adhere even better.
Cooking Your Breaded Chicken
With the breadcrumbs securely attached to your chicken, it’s time to cook them to perfection. There are various cooking methods you can employ, including baking, frying, or air-frying. Whichever method you choose, ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure both the chicken and the breading are fully cooked.
Conclusion
By following this simple extra step of dipping your chicken in an egg wash, you can prevent breadcrumbs from falling off during the cooking process. This small adjustment to the breading process will result in beautifully coated chicken that is moist, flavorful, and wonderfully crispy. Whether you’re making chicken tenders, schnitzel, or any other breaded chicken dish, taking the time to use an egg wash will elevate your cooking and impress your taste buds. So, go ahead and give it a try – you’ll never have to worry about losing those delicious breadcrumbs again!
*Source www.foodrepublic.com
