Can you fry chicken in olive oil? Ok, I’ll share how to make a delicious dish of fried chicken in olive oil. This dish is also known as pollo fritto all’olio d’oliva in Italian, and it is a simple but tasty way to enjoy chicken.
The frying process involves using cold pressed, high smoke point, vegetable oil, such as high quality extra virgin olive oil, to deep fry the chicken pieces until they are golden and crispy. The olive oil adds a rich and fruity flavor to the chicken, and it also contains healthy monounsaturated fats that are good for your heart.
However, not every type of olive oil is suitable for frying. You should avoid using low quality or refined olive oil, as they have lower smoke points and can burn easily, producing harmful compounds and ruining the taste of your dish. You can also use other oils that have high smoke points, such as canola oil or avocado oil, but they will not give the same flavor as olive oil.
Cooking process：
Step 1:
Wash and pat dry the chicken pieces. You can use any part of the chicken, such as breast, thigh, drumstick, or wing, however you can also cut them into smaller pieces if you prefer .
Step 2:
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other herbs or spices you like. You can also add some lemon juice or zest for a tangy flavor. Massage the seasonings well into the chicken and let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 3:
Coat the chicken pieces with some all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a crispy crust and prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan. You can also use cornstarch, rice flour, or breadcrumbs for a different texture.
Step 4:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil, which should be around 180°C (350°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread or flour into it. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
Step 5:
Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil, one by one, leaving some space between them. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and make the chicken soggy. You may need to fry the chicken in batches, depending on the size of your pan.
Step 6:
Fry the chicken pieces for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden and crispy on both sides. You can use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken, which should be at least 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part. Alternatively, you can cut a piece of chicken and see if the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Step 7:
Transfer the fried chicken pieces to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil. You can also sprinkle some more salt, pepper, or herbs over the chicken while it is still hot, for extra flavor.
Step 8:
Enjoy your fried chicken in olive oil with some fresh salad, bread, or rice. You can also drizzle some lemon juice or vinegar over the chicken for a zesty kick.
Fantastic! We are almost done.
Step 9:
Choose a large and beautiful plate to serve your fried chicken in olive oil.
Step 10:
Arrange the fried chicken pieces on the plate in a neat and attractive way. You can place them in a circle, a pyramid, or a line, depending on your preference.
Step 11:
Garnish the fried chicken with some fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or rosemary. You can also add some lemon wedges, cherry tomatoes, or olives for some extra color and flavor.
Step 12:
Serve your fried chicken in olive oil with a smile and a compliment. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.”
Nutritional value:
It’s not only delicious, but also healthy, according to some scientific studies. Another study by the Harvard School of Public Health in 2019 found that eating fried chicken in olive oil can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, compared to eating fried chicken in other oils.
Fried chicken in olive oil is a high-protein, low-carb dish that can provide you with essential amino acids, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Olive oil is also rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E, which can lower your cholesterol, protect your cells from oxidative stress, and improve your skin health.
Needing attention:
● Be careful when handling hot oil, as it can cause burns or fires if not handled properly. You should wear gloves, apron, and goggles to protect yourself from oil splatters. You should also keep a lid, a fire extinguisher, or some baking soda nearby, in case the oil catches fire. Do not use water to put out oil fires, as this will make them worse.
● Choose the right type and amount of oil for frying. You should use high quality extra virgin olive oil, as it has a high smoke point and a rich flavor. You should also use enough oil to cover the chicken pieces, but not too much, as this will waste oil and make the dish greasy. You can reuse the oil for frying other foods, but make sure to strain it and store it in a cool and dark place.
● Do not fry the chicken for too long or too short, as this will affect the texture and taste of the dish. You should fry the chicken until it is golden and crispy on the outside, and juicy and tender on the inside. You should also check the temperature and doneness of the chicken, using a thermometer or a knife. You can also adjust the heat of the stove, depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
The source of this dish:
Fried chicken in olive oil is a traditional dish from Italy, especially from the regions of Tuscany and Umbria. It is said that this dish was invented by the peasants who used olive oil to fry their chickens, as it was cheaper and more available than butter or lard. This dish is also known as pollo alla cacciatora (hunter’s style chicken), as it was often prepared by hunters who cooked their game in the field.
Fried chicken in olive oil is a popular and well-liked dish among many people, both in Italy and abroad. It is praised for its crispy and juicy texture, its rich and fruity flavor, and its simplicity and versatility. Many people enjoy this dish as a comfort food, a family meal, or a festive dish. Some famous chefs and celebrities who have endorsed this dish include Jamie Oliver, Gordon Ramsay, and Oprah Winfrey.
What are some tips for marinating chicken in olive oil?
Marinating chicken in olive oil can make your dish more moist and tasty. Here are some things you can do to marinate chicken in olive oil:
①Pick a good olive oil that has a high smoke point and a nice flavor. You can also add some lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices to make the oil more flavorful.
②Make some holes in the chicken with a fork or a knife before you put it in the oil. This will help the oil go inside the chicken and make it softer.
③Put the chicken and the oil in a dish or a bag, and make sure the chicken is covered with the oil.
④And put the chicken and the oil in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, or up to 8 hours. The longer you leave it, the more flavor the chicken will get. But don’t leave it for more than 24 hours, because the chicken will get too soft.
Related dishes:
Chicken Piccata;
Chicken Shawarma;
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