Meat & Poultry: Resting Fried Chicken on a Rack, Not Paper Towels
Resting fried chicken on a rack instead of paper towels is a game-changer for home cooks aiming to achieve crispy, juicy perfection. This technique allows the chicken to maintain its crunch while redistributing its juices for a moister bite. Contrary to popular belief, paper towels can actually lead to sogginess as they trap steam and moisture against the chicken. By resting your fried chicken on a rack, you allow air to circulate around each piece, ensuring that the skin stays crisp while the chicken cools slightly, allowing the juices to settle back into the meat. This method is particularly beneficial for dishes like Southern-style fried chicken, where texture and moisture are key. Moreover, it simplifies clean-up and avoids the greasy mess often associated with paper towels. Let's dive into why this technique works so well and how you can master it at home.
Notes
The science behind resting fried chicken on a rack is simple: air circulation is key to maintaining crisp skin. While resting, the chicken's internal temperature continues to rise slightly, redistributing juices for a succulent result. A common mistake is to cover the chicken with foil or a lid, which can trap moisture and lead to sogginess. Always ensure the rack is placed over a sheet pan to catch any grease. For make-ahead meals, resting on a rack and then storing in a warm oven is ideal for maintaining texture. Avoid resting for too long, though, as prolonged resting can lead to dryness.
Steps
- 1 Prepare a wire rack by placing it over a baking sheet to catch any grease drippings.
- 2 Immediately after frying, transfer the chicken pieces to the rack.
- 3 Ensure the pieces are not touching each other to allow for proper air circulation.
- 4 Let the chicken rest on the rack for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
- 5 Avoid stacking the chicken pieces during resting to maintain crispiness.
- 6 Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before resting.
- 7 If preparing in advance, rest the chicken on the rack and store in a low oven set to 200°F to keep warm.
- 8 For extra crispiness, you can return the chicken to a preheated 350°F oven for 5 minutes before serving.
Ingredients to explore
Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is a winter squash variety known for its distinctive teardrop shape and deep ridges resembling the texture of an acorn shell. Originating in the Americas, it has been cultivated for centuries and is a staple in autumn cuisine. The flesh is sweet and nutty with a hint of earthiness, offering a delightful contrast to savory dishes. Its texture is dense yet tender when cooked, making it ideal for roasting or pureeing. In cooking, acorn squash holds its shape well and absorbs flavors from herbs and spices, enhancing both its taste and versatility in recipes.
2% Milk
Creamy and just a touch lighter than whole milk, 2% milk offers a perfect balance of richness and reduced fat. Its smooth texture and subtle sweetness make it a delightful choice for sipping or cooking.
Recipes to try
Pepper Jack Stuffed Meatloaf with Salsa Glaze
A savory meatloaf stuffed with gooey pepper jack cheese and topped with a tangy, zesty salsa glaze that'll have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
Shrimp and Chorizo Rice Skillet
A zesty, one-pan wonder where plump shrimp and smoky chorizo mingle with fragrant rice, creating a fiesta in every bite.