Quick and Easy Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe

This mustard fried chicken recipe is one I go back to again and again. It pairs meaty, juicy chicken thighs with a crispy mustard coating to create a meal that's chef's kiss good. Pair it with your favorite sauce, and you'll have everything you'll need for a gameday snack, a potluck, or just a tasty family dinner!

This Mustard Fried Chicken Is My Favorite Kind Of Fried Chicken

Let's be honest, you can't really go wrong with fried chicken. From sticky Korean chicken to beautiful buttermilk fried chicken, it is all finger-licking good! 

But, honestly, I think this mustard fried chicken may be my all-time favorite kind of fried chicken. The trick is in the mustard which works as a binder and gives the coating an unbeatable crisp.

I cook this recipe every time I have my friends and family over for football, and it's usually gone before the end of the first quarter - always a good sign of a great game day snack!

So, if you're looking for a recipe that will be a party pleaser, look no further. Everyone - yes, even the kids - will love this mustard fried chicken recipe. They always do it at my house anyway.

Ingredients for Mustard Fried Chicken

• 4 chicken thighs - bone-in and skin-on thighs are best for juicy, tender chicken with a lovely crispy crust. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer.
• Seasoned salt mix - I use 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt.
• ⅓ cup mustard - I like to use yellow mustard, but you can use Dijon mustard, brown mustard, or honey mustard for a different flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoon dried parsley - to add a touch of freshness to balance out the spice.
• 1 cup of flour - all purpose flour works perfectly and will give your chicken pieces a beautiful crispy coating.
• 1 to 2 cups of vegetable oil - for frying chicken. Vegetable oil is the best oil because it has a higher smoke point so it doesn't burn when deep frying.

How To Make Mustard Fried Chicken

Step 1: Make your seasoning salt

This is what's going to give your chicken all its flavor, so it's a crucial first step. To make your season salt. Just mix the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to do it.

Step 2: Season the chicken

Put your chicken pieces in a large bowl, add the mustard and half of the season salt mixture. Toss the chicken in it until it's well coated with the mustard and seasoning. Then, cover the bowl and let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 20 minutes (up to overnight if you have time).

Step 3: Make the crispy coating

In a large bowl, combine the all purpose flour, the remaining seasoning mixture, and dried parsley. Then, add the chicken pieces to the seasoned flour mix and make sure every fold is completely coated for an even crunch.

Step 4: Cook the chicken

Add a few inches of oil to a large pot. Set the burner up to medium-high heat and heat oil to 325°F (160°C). Make sure the oil reaches this temp because it's very important for getting a perfect crisp. Fry the chicken on both sides until they are a deep golden brown and are nice and crisp.

Step 5: Check the temperature

When the chicken is done, the internal temperature should be 165°F/74°C, so check with an instant-read thermometer. If you don't have a meat thermometer, just make sure the juices run clear, and you are good to go!

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Remove the chicken from the oil and drain it on a cooling rack or on a plate with paper towels. Serve with your choice of sauce, and enjoy!

Expert Tips to Make the Best Recipe

• Make sure you heat the oil up before frying the chicken. If the oil is cold, when you add the chicken, it will become greasy and soggy, but hot oil will give you that amazing golden brown crunch.
• Give the chicken enough room to fry evenly. If you have a small pot, fry just a piece or two at a time before frying the next batch. This will ensure the pieces don't stick together while they cook to leave you with beautifully crispy fried chicken.
• Don't overcoat the chicken, or you will have a clumpy breading that's not as crispy.

Storing and Reheating Instructions

Store your fried chicken in the fridge: This chicken is best enjoyed right after frying, but you can store any leftover chicken in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Store your fried chicken in the freezer: You can also store this fried chicken in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure you let it cool completely, then you can store it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

How to reheat your fried chicken: To reheat the chicken, put them in the oven on a baking sheet for 10 minutes at 375°F. You can also reheat it in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 400°F.

Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe FAQS

Can I Use Chicken breasts Instead of Chicken Thighs?

Yes, if you prefer chicken breast to thighs, you can follow this recipe exactly as is, and it will turn out equally delicious!

Can I Make Additions/Substitutions to the Seasoning Blend?

Of course, while my seasoning salt blend has all my favorite seasonings and spices, it is a really versatile recipe. Onion powder, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika can all add a different element of flavor to your spice blend and give your mustard fried chicken an extra kick.

What is the best oil to use for fried chicken?

I like to use vegetable oil, but peanut oil or any other neutral oil that has a high smoke point makes a great oil for frying chicken.

More Chicken Recipes

• Chicken cobbler
• Chicken tocino
• BBQ Boneless Wings
• Crustless Chicken pot pie
• Breaded chicken wings
• Crock Pot garlic parmesan chicken