Chicken Crack Seasoning Recipe

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I first discovered this Chicken Crack Seasoning when experimenting with homemade fried chicken for my family, and let me tell you—it was a hit! The name “chicken crack” might sound intense, but I promise, it’s all about how addictive and irresistible this seasoning blend is. With the perfect balance of savory, smoky, and just a hint of spice, your kitchen will soon become everyone’s favorite fried chicken spot.

How to make Chicken Crack Seasoning

Chicken Crack Seasoning is a popular fried chicken coating mix and seasoning blend renowned for its addictive flavor—hence the name “Chicken Crack.” It’s typically a seasoned flour mix that’s used to dredge chicken before frying, giving it a crispy, golden crust with bold, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch or potato starch

Core Spices:

• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder

Flavor Building:

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano, or parsley)

Seasonings:

• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon MSG

Instructions to Make Chicken Crack Seasoning

1. Start with the dry mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and cornstarch (or potato starch). Mix thoroughly to ensure an even distribution.
2. Add the spices and seasonings: Incorporate all the spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, black pepper, etc.) into the dry base. Stir well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Store your seasoning: Once fully combined, transfer the dry seasoning mix to an airtight container (like a glass jar or zip-top bag). Keep it in a cool, dry place. This mix can stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Crack Seasoning

• Adjust the spice levels to your taste: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne or smoked paprika to suit your preference for spicier or milder seasoning.
• Experiment with herbs and blends: You can play with different herbs based on your flavor preferences—rosemary, sage, or dill can add unique twists.
• Double-batch the seasoning: Make a larger batch of this seasoning and store it so it’s ready whenever the craving hits. It works great on fish and roasted vegetables, too!
• Rest the coated chicken: After coating the chicken in your seasoning mix, let it sit on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off during cooking.
• Choose the right oil: Use oils with a high smoke point such as peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil.

Ingredients Substitutes

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand for your Chicken Crack Seasoning? No worries! The beauty of making a homemade seasoning blend is that it’s flexible and can be tweaked based on what you have in your pantry.

Flour Substitutes

The flour serves as the base for creating a crispy coating for the chicken. If you don’t have all-purpose flour, here are some other options:

• Cornstarch or Rice Flour (1:1 substitution): Perfect for an even crispier texture. You can substitute all of the flour with these if you’re aiming for a lighter, crunchier crust.
• Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: If you’re avoiding gluten, most gluten-free blends will work just as well as traditional flour.
• Self-Rising Flour: Use self-rising flour if that’s all you have. Keep in mind that you may need less salt since self-rising flour already includes some.
• Almond Flour or Coconut Flour (low-carb option): These can be used for keto-friendly versions, although the texture won’t be the same as classic fried chicken.

Cornstarch Substitute

Cornstarch is commonly used to add that signature crispiness to the chicken. If you don’t have it, try these options:

• Potato Starch (1:1 substitution): Potato starch is an excellent substitute and actually gives an even crispier result in many cases.
• Arrowroot Powder (1:1 substitution): A great gluten-free option that also performs like cornstarch.
• Tapioca Starch (1:1 substitution): Another gluten-free alternative for creating that crunchy coating.
• Omit it: If none of these are available, simply increase the flour by the same amount. While the coating won’t be as light and crispy, it will still work.

Paprika Alternatives

Paprika adds flavor, a hint of sweetness, and a nice red hue to your seasoning. If you’ve run out, here’s what you can use instead:

• Smoked Paprika (1:1 substitution): If you have smoked paprika, it’s an excellent substitute and adds a smoky twist.
• Chili Powder: Chili powder can work as a substitute, though it’s spicier and darker in color.
• Cayenne Pepper (in small amounts): Cayenne can replace paprika in a pinch, but use much less as it’s significantly spicier.
• Ancho Chili Powder or Red Pepper Flakes: Ancho chili powder gives a mild smoky flavor, while red pepper flakes add a more intense heat.

Garlic Powder Substitute

Garlic powder adds a key savory element. If you don’t have it:

• Fresh Garlic (1 clove ≈ 1/4 tsp powder): Mince fresh garlic and mix it directly into the wet dredge instead of the dry seasoning.
• Granulated Garlic: It’s essentially the same as garlic powder, just slightly coarser in texture.
• Onion Powder: While it has a slightly different flavor, onion powder can still add a similar savory quality.
• Garlic Salt: Use garlic salt, but adjust the amount of regular salt in your seasoning to balance the flavors.

Onion Powder Substitute

If you’re out of onion powder, consider these options:

• Finely Minced Fresh Onion: Just like with garlic, you can mix freshly minced onion into the wet dredge.
• Dried Minced Onion or Onion Flakes: These work well as a substitute; you can grind them into a finer consistency for an even substitution.
• Shallot Powder: If you happen to have shallot powder, it’s a great alternative with a slightly sweeter taste.

Cayenne Pepper or Chili Powder Alternatives

Cayenne adds heat, but you can swap it out for other spicy ingredients:

• Red Pepper Flakes: Crush further if needed and use as a 1:1 substitute for a similar level of heat.
• Hot Sauce: If you don’t mind adding heat in liquid form, mix hot sauce into your wet dredge.
• Paprika (for mild flavor): If you don’t want heat, paprika can replace cayenne for color without the spiciness.

Salt Substitutes

Salt is key for bringing out flavor, but you have options:

• Seasoned Salt or Garlic Salt: Adjust the amount of other seasonings accordingly.
• Soy Sauce or Liquid Aminos: Add into the wet dredge as a source of saltiness.
• Celery Salt: Adds an herbal, slightly salty flavor.

Black Pepper Substitute

Black pepper adds a mild heat and sharpness. If you’re out, try:

• White Pepper: It has a similar heat but is milder and less sharp in taste.
• Cayenne Pepper (in small amounts): Use sparingly for heat, as cayenne is spicier.
• Red Chili Powder: Another option for adding some heat.

Dried Herb Alternatives

If you don’t have thyme, oregano, or parsley, other dried herbs can work:

• Basil, Dill, or Rosemary: These herbs can provide their own unique twists on the flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A pre-mixed blend of herbs can replace individual ones.

Sugar Substitute

Sugar adds just a hint of sweetness to balance the seasoning. You can use:

• Honey or Maple Syrup: Mix a small amount into the wet dredge.
• Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar: Adds a slightly caramelized flavor.
• Skip it: You can omit the sugar entirely if you prefer a strictly savory mix.

Final Thoughts

Making Chicken Crack Seasoning is all about flexibility and flavor tailoring. With these substitutes, you can adjust the recipe to fit what’s in your pantry while still creating a delicious, crispy coating that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds!

More On Seasonings:

• Wingstop Hot Honey Rub Review
• Wingstop Hot Honey Rub Review
• Wingstop Louisiana Rub Review
• Smoky Chipotle Rub Review