Today, I’m excited to share a special recipe that’s close to my heart: authentic Puerto Rican fried chicken without flour. This is one of my childhood favorites and brings back so many fond memories. It has also become one of my husband’s and children’s favorite way to eat chicken.
This dish brings together simple ingredients with vibrant flavors, creating a mouth-watering meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. It’s definitely a comfort food, packed with incredible flavor, crunchy on the outside, and wonderfully juicy on the inside. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too!
The two versions of Puerto Rican Fried Chicken
When it comes to Puerto Rican fried chicken, there are two delicious versions: the floured and the non-floured. In my home, we always enjoyed the non-floured version, which is what I’ll be sharing with you today.
The floured chicken, commonly known as chicharrones de pollo, is another delicious variation that I will show you how to make at a later time. It consists of marinated, floured, and deep-fried pieces of chicken, typically made with boneless chicken thighs or broken drumsticks. The name “chicharrones” usually refers to fried pork rinds, but in this context, it signifies the crispy, flavorful chicken pieces.
Both versions have their unique charm and flavor, but today we’ll focus on the non-floured, crispy, and juicy version that I grew up with. This way of making chicken is much easier and less time consuming, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. It usually consists of frying either the chicken thigh or drumstick.🤗
Why Puerto Rican Fried Chicken Without Flour is So Good
1. Bursting with Flavor
This chicken is marinated with a blend of traditional Puerto Rican seasonings like adobo, Sazón, and oregano. These spices soak deep into the meat, making every bite an explosion of flavor. Unlike other fried chicken recipes that rely on a flour coating, this version lets the marinade shine through, giving you a true taste of Puerto Rican goodness.
2. Crispy and Juicy Perfection
You might wonder how it can be crispy without flour, but that’s the magic of this recipe! The marinade helps create a natural crust as the chicken fries, so you still get that satisfying crunch. Inside, the chicken stays juicy and tender. It’s the perfect balance, and I promise you won’t even miss the flour.
3. Simplicity and Authenticity
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is. Just a few ingredients and easy steps, and you’ve got an authentic Puerto Rican dish that brings the island’s flavors right to your kitchen. Plus, less mess and fuss make it a go-to for busy days when you are coming home from work and are looking to make something quick but delicious.
Healthier Alternative
If you’re looking to enjoy fried chicken without the extra calories and carbs from flour, this version is a winner. You get all the crispy, flavorful goodness without the guilt. It’s a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on taste, which is a total win-win. Oh and I almost forgot to mention the most important thing for me is that… It’s GLUTEN FREE!
Family-Friendly
This chicken goes with everything! Pair it with some arroz con gandules, rice and beans, tostones, or a fresh green salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress. It’s such a family-friendly dish, too. Everyone will be coming back for seconds.
Traditional Puerto Rican Fried Chicken
Print Recipe
Equipment
- 1 frying pan
- 1 Bowl
- 1 knife
- 1 tongs
Ingredients
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tsp Adobo
- 1/2 packet Sazon
- 1/2 tsp Oregano
- 1/2 cup oil
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Start by rinsing the chicken drumsticks under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy skin.
- Using a knife, cut 3-4 slits into each chicken drumstick. This will help the chicken cook quicker and also all the yummy seasoning.
Season the Chicken
- In a large bowl, add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl. Combine the adobo, Sazón, and oregano. Using your hand rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. (For best flavor let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.)
Heat the Oil
- In a large frying pan, heat the 1/2 cup of frying oil over medium-high heat. To check if the oil is hot enough, you can place a small side of a drumstick into the oil; if it sizzles a lot the oil is ready.
Fry the Chicken
- Carefully place the marinated chicken drumsticks into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Cooke each side for 2-3 minutes to get a nice crispy layer. Then turn the heat down to a medium low or low, and cook the chicken for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Drain and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the skin to crisp up further.
Video
Notes
- Marinating: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute marination will make a difference.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for perfect fried chicken. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy instead of crunchy.
- Resting: Allowing the chicken to rest after frying helps to keep it juicy and ensures a crispy texture.
So there you have it! Puerto Rican fried chicken without flour is a flavor-packed, crispy, juicy, simple, gluten free, and healthier option that’s perfect for any occasion. Making it for your family not only gives you a delicious meal but also a little taste of Puerto Rican heritage. Give it a try, and let me know what you think. I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your house, too!
