Do You Need Egg To Fry Chicken? Answered (Updated)

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

The tasty chicken, with its **crispy and golden** crust, brings joy that’s simply unbeatable.

But do you need an egg to fry chicken and achieve that crunchy coating? Here’s what I’ve learned.

Can You Fry Chicken Without Egg?

Yes, you can fry chicken without an egg. While the egg [1] is often used as a binding agent for the flour or breadcrumb coating, many alternatives can achieve a similar effect.

Buttermilk, yogurt, or just plain water can help the coating stick to the chicken. 

“The best comfort food will always be greens, cornbread, and fried chicken.”

– Maya Angelou, American Memoirist

The key to achieving a crispy coating without egg is to ensure the chicken is dry before coating it and to fry it in hot oil that’s been adequately heated. 

Read:

• How To Keep Just Egg From Sticking?
• What Is The White Seasoning On Fried Chicken?

4 Best Substitutes For Egg In Fried Chicken

1. Buttermilk: Buttermilk [2] is an excellent substitute for eggs in fried chicken. The buttermilk’s acidity helps tenderize the chicken, while the fat content adds richness to the coating. Plus, it provides a tangy flavor that complements the chicken well.
2. Yogurt: Yogurt can also be used as a substitute for eggs in fried chicken. It helps to tenderize the chicken and adds a creamy flavor to the coating.
3. Milk: Milk is another option as a substitute for fried chicken. Dip the chicken in milk before coating it with your preferred coating mixture.
4. Water: In a pinch, you can use water as a substitute for egg in fried chicken. Just dip the chicken in water before coating it with the coating mixture.

How Do You Fry Chicken Without Egg?

1. Prepare your chicken: Cut your chicken into pieces, season with salt and pepper, and pat dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2. Prepare your coating mixture: Mix your preferred coating mixture, seasoned flour or bread crumbs, with your chosen substitute for egg, such as buttermilk, yogurt, or water.
3. Dredge the chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the coating mixture, and press the mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere.
4. Heat the oil: Heat your oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the chicken: Working in batches, carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes for smaller pieces and up to 20 minutes for larger pieces. Remove the chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain it on a wire rack or paper towel.
6. Serve and enjoy: Serve the chicken hot and crispy, seasoned with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Will Chicken Still Be Crispy Without Egg?

Yes, chicken can still be crispy without an egg. The key to achieving a crispy coating is to ensure the chicken is dry before coating it and to fry it in hot oil that’s been adequately heated. 

“Great fried chicken is all about technique and creativity, not just eggs. Whether you use buttermilk, yogurt, or even just plain water, the key is to experiment and find what works best for you.”

– Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

A substitute for egg, such as buttermilk, yogurt, or water, can also help the coating stick to the chicken.

The coating mixture and frying technique can produce deliciously crispy chicken without an egg.

Can You Taste The Difference Between Fried Chicken With & Without Egg?

While there may be a slight difference in taste between fried chicken with and without egg, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 

Some people may prefer the taste of chicken with egg, as it can add richness and depth to the coating, while others may enjoy the flavor of the coating mixture.

Regardless, both methods can produce equally delicious and satisfying fried chicken. 

FAQs

Final Thoughts

While egg is a common ingredient in many fried chicken recipes, it is not required. Many substitutes can achieve a similar effect, such as buttermilk, yogurt, or even plain water. 

The key to achieving crispy, flavorful fried chicken without using egg is to ensure the chicken is dry before coating it and to fry it in hot oil that’s been adequately heated. 

You can create a deliciously crispy fried chicken that suits your taste preferences by experimenting with different coating mixtures and frying techniques. 

So whether you prefer to use egg or not, you can still enjoy the mouth-watering flavor and crunch of homemade fried chicken.

References:

1. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/glossary/egg-glossary
2. https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/how-to-make-buttermilk