FRIED CHICKEN Meaning and
Definition
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Fried chicken is a popular dish made from chicken that has been coated in a seasoned batter or breading and then deep-fried or pan-fried until it is crispy and golden brown. It is a savory and flavorful dish renowned for its crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat.
To prepare fried chicken, the chicken pieces, usually including the wings, drumsticks, thighs, or breast, are typically marinated or seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, which can vary depending on individual preferences or regional cuisines. The seasoned chicken is then coated in a mixture of flour or breadcrumbs, often combined with additional seasonings, to create a crispy outer layer when fried.
The deep-frying process involves immersing the chicken in hot oil, usually around 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius), until it is fully cooked and achieves a crunchy and golden crust. Pan-frying can also be used, where the chicken is cooked in a shallow amount of oil in a skillet or frying pan. Both methods of frying result in a crispy exterior while ensuring the inside remains moist and tender.
Fried chicken is commonly enjoyed as a main course, often served with side dishes such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, or cornbread. It is a staple in many cuisines worldwide, including American Southern cuisine, Korean fried chicken, Japanese karaage, and more, each with their own unique variations and flavors.
Etymology of FRIED CHICKEN
The word fried chicken can be traced back to its individual parts.
The term fried comes from the Middle English word frien, which means to cook in hot fat or oil. It can be further traced to the Old English word frysan, meaning to fry or to cook in a pan.
The word chicken originates from the Old English word cicen, derived from the West Germanic word kikan, which means chicken. This word has various related forms in different Germanic languages, like kykene in Middle English and chicon in Old French.
The combination of fried and chicken refers to the method of cooking chicken by immersing it in hot oil or fat, resulting in a crispy and flavorful dish known as fried chicken.
