Cook Fried Chicken in Beef Tallow
Deep fryingTallow's high smoke point and stability make it perfect for the longer frying time chicken requires. It creates an exceptionally crispy crust that stays crispy, and the flavor is incomparable to vegetable oil.
What You'll Need
- large cast iron skillet or dutch oven
- thermometer
- tongs
- wire rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brine chicken for 4-24 hours (optional but recommended)
- Make seasoned flour: flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder
- Make buttermilk dredge: buttermilk, egg, hot sauce
- Dip chicken in buttermilk, then flour, then buttermilk, then flour again
- Let breaded chicken rest 15 minutes
- Heat tallow to 350°F in cast iron (2-3 inches deep)
- Fry chicken pieces skin-side down first
- Don't move for 7-8 minutes until golden
- Flip and fry another 7-8 minutes
- Check internal temp reaches 165°F
- Rest on wire rack 5 minutes before serving
Pro Tips
- Room temperature chicken fries more evenly
- Double dredging creates a thicker, crispier crust
- Don't overcrowd—fry in batches
- Maintain oil temperature by adjusting heat
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Oil too hot (burns outside, raw inside)
- Oil too cold (greasy, soggy coating)
- Moving chicken too much
- Not checking internal temperature
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should I cook fried chicken in beef tallow?
For deep frying fried chicken in beef tallow, heat your pan to 350°F. This temperature ensures proper browning without burning.
How long does it take to cook fried chicken in beef tallow?
Fried Chicken typically takes 15-18 minutes (bone-in pieces) when cooking in beef tallow using the deep frying method.
Why is beef tallow good for cooking fried chicken?
Tallow's high smoke point and stability make it perfect for the longer frying time chicken requires. It creates an exceptionally crispy crust that stays crispy, and the flavor is incomparable to vegetable oil.
New to cooking with beef tallow?
Read our guides on this versatile cooking fat and learn to render it at home.