Adding fried chicken to the menu is a great way to diversify your offering and attract a broader customer base. Chicken is universally popular, appealing to a wide range of customers, including families with young children, teenagers and those looking for a lighter or different protein option.
Here are some top tips from our Area Sales Manager Richard Turner on how to fry delicious chicken using just your Kiremko frying range:
No pressure fryer needed
Traditionally, fried chicken is associated with pressure frying, which seals in moisture. However, according to Richard, more operators are moving towards open frying as it offers a great alternative without the hefty investment in specialised equipment. Your Kiremko frying range is the perfect kit to utilise, cooking chicken to perfection. Richard explains: “Chicken in the pan on a fryer is as good as anything that could be pressure fried. We know, we’ve tried it!” Plus, with Kiremko’s triple filtration system, impurities are filtered out, maintaining oil quality even when frying chicken alongside fish.
Start simple
For shops just starting with chicken, goujons are a popular option and simple to do. “Chicken goujons are the easiest because they cook evenly and stay moist,” says Richard. “Avoid chicken on the bone – it requires longer cooking times.” Instead, he suggests focussing on boneless options like chicken breasts, which you can butterfly and bread for chicken burgers, wraps or use as mini fillets.
Use a quality breader
Richard emphasises the importance of high quality breaders and recommends trusted brands like Roosters from Middleton Foods or Chicken Train from Kerry Foods. He also says a pre-dip is a must to help the breader adhere to the chicken when it hits the pan. It also creates a more substantial-looking product and, with lots of different flavours available, you can vary the profile and the heat of the coating, creating several menu options from one item.
Get creative
There are endless ways to incorporate chicken into your menu. Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Chicken burgers and wraps: A simple chicken fillet can be transformed into a burger or wrap, adding variety to your menu with minimal effort.
- Loaded chips: Try Southern fried chicken goujons over a bed of chips, loaded with cheese or sauces for a hearty meal.
- Popcorn chicken: Bite-sized and shareable, popcorn chicken is a great snack option that is easy to prepare and popular with customers of all ages.
- Combo meals: Compete with fast food chains by offering chicken combo meals with chips, sides and dips, creating a value for money offering.
Temperature control
Regular temperature probing is a must, says Richard, to ensure chicken reaches the required 75°C for safe consumption. Open frying chicken fillets or goujons takes around the same time as fish, meaning you can manage orders efficiently without compromising on food quality.
Prepare ahead
Fried chicken holds well in the hot box, making it easy to prepare a batch ahead for busy periods. This allows you to serve customers quickly while also enticing those who see the fresh, golden chicken displayed in the hot box.