Introduction

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—broast chicken is a favorite among fried chicken lovers. But what makes it different from the regular deep-fried version? Broasting is a unique cooking method that combines pressure frying with deep frying, resulting in a deliciously crispy texture while keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

This article dives deep into what makes broast chicken special, how it’s prepared, and how it differs from traditional fried chicken. If you’ve ever wondered whether KFC serves broasted chicken or how you can make it at home, you’re in the right place!

The Broasting Process Explained

Combining Pressure Cooking and Deep Frying

Broasting is a specialized cooking technique that combines pressure cooking and deep frying. Unlike traditional frying, where chicken is submerged in hot oil, broasting involves a pressure fryer, which locks in moisture while creating a crispy outer layer.

Here’s how it works:

1. The chicken is first marinated with a blend of spices to enhance flavor.
2. It’s then coated with a seasoned flour mixture, creating a crunchy exterior.
3. The coated chicken is placed in a pressure fryer, which cooks it at high pressure and temperature.
4. The result? A golden, crispy coating while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Benefits of Broasting

Compared to regular fried chicken, broasting offers several advantages:

✅ Less oil absorption – Pressure frying reduces oil penetration, making it a healthier alternative.
✅ Faster cooking time – The high-pressure environment speeds up cooking without drying out the meat.
✅ Consistent texture – The process ensures even cooking, giving you a crispy crust and juicy inside.

Many restaurants and fast-food chains use broasting to maintain consistency in flavor and texture, making it a popular choice worldwide.

Broast Chicken vs. Fried Chicken

Key Differences in Cooking Methods

While both broasting and frying involve hot oil, the main difference lies in the cooking process.

• Fried Chicken: Chicken pieces are fully submerged in hot oil and cooked in an open fryer. This method creates a crispy exterior but can lead to excess oil absorption.
• Broast Chicken: Uses a pressure fryer, sealing in moisture while ensuring a crispy texture. The pressurized environment speeds up cooking while reducing oil penetration.

Taste and Texture Comparison

The cooking technique significantly affects the final taste and texture of the chicken.

Feature	Broast Chicken	Fried Chicken
Crunchiness	Crispy, but not greasy	Extra crispy but can be greasy
Moisture	Juicy and tender inside	Can dry out if overcooked
Flavor Absorption	Deeply infused flavors from pressure cooking	Mostly on the outer layer
Oil Content	Less oil due to pressure frying	More oil absorbed into the meat

Nutritional Differences

For those watching their diet, chicken is often a better choice than traditional fried chicken.

• Since broasting uses less oil, it generally has fewer calories and less fat compared to deep-fried chicken.
• The pressurized cooking process reduces oil absorption, making it slightly healthier than open-fried alternatives.
• However, the nutritional difference depends on factors like the type of oil used and portion sizes.

How to Make Broast Chicken at Home

Nothing beats the satisfaction of making restaurant-quality broast chicken in your own kitchen. While broasting traditionally requires a pressure fryer, there are alternative methods for home cooks to achieve similar results.

Essential Equipment Needed

To make authentic chicken, you’ll need some key tools:

✔️ Pressure Fryer – The best way to achieve authentic broasting results. It locks in moisture while crisping the coating.
✔️ Deep Fryer or Heavy-Duty Pot – If you don’t have a pressure fryer, a deep fryer or Dutch oven can work, though the results may vary.
✔️ Thermometer – Ensures precise oil temperature for optimal frying.
✔️ Marination Bowl – Helps coat the chicken evenly with seasonings.

💡 Tip: If you don’t have a pressure fryer, use a deep fryer with a lid to retain some moisture while cooking.

Ingredients for Crispy Broast Chicken

For the Marinade:

• 1 kg chicken (cut into pieces)
• 1 cup buttermilk (for extra tenderness)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme

For Frying:

• 1 liter cooking oil (vegetable or canola)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1️⃣ Wash and pat dry the chicken pieces.
2️⃣ In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and lemon juice.
3️⃣ Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
4️⃣ Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for the best flavor).

💡 Why marinate? Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with rich flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1️⃣ In another bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, white pepper, chili powder, oregano, and thyme.
2️⃣ Take the marinated chicken and coat each piece thoroughly in the dry mixture.
3️⃣ Let the coated chicken rest for 10-15 minutes to help the flour adhere better.

💡 Cornstarch and baking powder enhance crispiness by creating a light, airy texture.

Step 3: Broast the Chicken

If Using a Pressure Fryer:
1️⃣ Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) in the pressure fryer.
2️⃣ Carefully place the coated chicken inside, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer.
3️⃣ Close the lid and cook under pressure for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
4️⃣ Remove and drain on a wire rack.

💡 Pressure frying reduces oil absorption while cooking the chicken faster.

If Using a Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot:
1️⃣ Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
2️⃣ Fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
3️⃣ Drain on a wire rack to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Your homemade chicken is now ready to enjoy! Serve it with:

Fries – A classic side that pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Garlic Bread – Ideal for soaking up any leftover seasoning.
Garlic Mayo or Spicy Ketchup – The perfect dips for extra flavor.

Alternative Cooking Methods (Without a Pressure Fryer)

If you don’t have a pressure fryer, here are some ways to get close to the same results:

Oven-Baked Broast Chicken: Coat the chicken and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air-Fried Broast Chicken: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 20 minutes, flipping once. Spray lightly with oil for crispiness.
Shallow Frying Method: Use less oil and cook in a pan over medium heat, covering with a lid to trap moisture.

💡 While these methods may not achieve the exact texture of broasting, they’re great alternatives for a healthier version!

More Details on the Origins of Broast Chicken

The concept of broast chicken originated in the 1950s when L.A.M. Phelan, an American inventor, developed the first pressure fryer under the Broaster Company brand. His goal was to create a cooking method that could produce crispy fried chicken faster while keeping it juicy inside. The result? A game-changing technique that revolutionized fast food!

As the Broaster Company patented its process, restaurants worldwide began adopting pressure frying to offer a quicker, tastier, and less oily version of fried chicken. Today, broast chicken is a global favorite, especially in the Middle East, South Asia, and the United States.

💡 Fun Fact: Although many fast-food chains use pressure fryers, only those licensed by the Broaster Company can legally call their product broast chicken.

Why is Broast Chicken So Popular?

So, what makes broast chicken so irresistible? Let’s break down why people love this dish:

✔ Crispy Yet Light Coating: Unlike traditional deep-fried chicken, broasting doesn’t leave the meat feeling heavy or greasy. The pressure-frying technique creates a perfect crunch without excessive oil absorption.

✔ Moist and Tender Inside: The sealed pressure environment traps moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out. Every bite remains juicy, flavorful, and well-seasoned.

✔ Rich, Infused Flavor: Because the marinade is locked inside during cooking, the spices and seasonings penetrate deeper, resulting in bold and consistent flavors.

✔ Faster Cooking Time: A traditional deep-fryer requires 20+ minutes to cook chicken thoroughly. In contrast, a pressure fryer takes only 8-10 minutes, making broasting a quick and efficient method.

✔ A Healthier Alternative to Fried Chicken: Since the oil does not seep as deeply into the meat, broast chicken is slightly healthier than traditional fried chicken. This makes it a better option for those who love crispy chicken but want to reduce excessive oil intake.

Broast Chicken Around the World: Different Regional Variations

While the basic broasting technique remains the same, different countries add their own twists to make it unique!

Saudi Arabian Broast Chicken – Known for its spicy marinade and garlic sauce, this version is a favorite among fast-food lovers in the Middle East. Served with fries, coleslaw, and pickled veggies, it’s a staple in countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Kuwait.

Pakistani & Indian Broast Chicken – In South Asia, broast chicken is often spicier, with extra chili powder, cumin, and garam masala. It’s usually served with green chutney, paratha (flatbread), and raita (yogurt sauce) for an added flavor punch.

American Broast Chicken – The original version developed by the Broaster Company. It’s commonly served with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits in classic American diners.

Turkish Broast Chicken – Features a lighter seasoning mix with hints of sumac and oregano. Often paired with rice, grilled vegetables, and yogurt-based dips.

Filipino Broast Chicken – Known locally as Fried Chicken ala Max’s, this variation uses banana ketchup as a marinade, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor.

💡 Tip: When traveling, always look for local variations of broast chicken! Each region adds a unique flavor twist, making it a must-try dish wherever you go.

How to Achieve the Perfect Crunch in Homemade Broast Chicken

Making broast chicken at home? Here are expert tips to get the perfect crispy-yet-juicy texture:

🔹 Use Cornstarch & Baking Powder: Adding cornstarch to the flour coating lightens the crust, while baking powder creates tiny air pockets that enhance crispiness.

🔹 Double Coating for Extra Crunch: Dip the chicken in the marinade, coat it in the flour mix, then repeat for a thicker, crunchier crust.

🔹 Let the Coating Rest: After dredging the chicken in flour, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before frying. This helps the flour stick better, preventing the coating from falling off during frying.

🔹 Preheat the Oil to the Right Temperature: The ideal frying temperature is 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the outer crust will burn before the inside cooks. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil, making it greasy.

🔹 Never Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry in small batches! Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, unevenly cooked chicken.

💡 Follow these steps, and your homemade broast chicken will be just as good as the restaurant version!

The Ultimate Broast Chicken Meal: Perfect Side Dishes

Want to serve broast chicken like a pro? Pair it with the right sides for an unforgettable meal!

Crispy French Fries: The classic companion for broast chicken! Opt for seasoned or curly fries for extra flavor.
Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy side that balances out the richness of the chicken.
Garlic Butter Bread: Adds a savory touch and soaks up all the delicious juices.
Spiced Rice or Pilaf: A great alternative to fries, especially in Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisine.
Garlic Mayo or Spicy Ketchup: The perfect dipping sauces to enhance the chicken’s flavor.

💡 Mix and match these sides to create the perfect broast chicken meal!

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Broast Chicken

chicken offers everything you love about fried chicken—but even better! Its crispy, golden exterior combined with juicy, flavorful meat makes it a top-tier chicken dish. Plus, with less oil absorption, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken.

Whether you’re ordering from a restaurant or making it at home, broast chicken is a must-try for every food lover!

Frequently Asked Questions About Broast Chicken

What is Chicken Broast?

Broast chicken is a pressure-fried chicken that combines the best of deep frying and pressure cooking. It’s different from traditional fried chicken because it’s cooked in a sealed, pressurized fryer, which helps retain moisture while creating a crispy, golden-brown crust.

Unlike standard deep-fried chicken, broasting results in less oil absorption, making the meat juicier and more flavorful without being greasy.

What is the Difference Between Broasted and Fried Chicken?

Both broast chicken and fried chicken involve frying, but the cooking process and results differ:

Feature	Broast Chicken	Fried Chicken
Cooking Method	Pressure frying	Open deep frying
Oil Absorption	Less oil penetrates the chicken	More oil is absorbed
Texture	Crispy but not too greasy	Crunchy but can be oily
Juiciness	Retains more moisture	Can be dry if overcooked
Cooking Time	Faster due to pressure	Takes longer to cook thoroughly

Broasting helps the chicken cook evenly, keeping the inside moist while forming a crunchy, flavorful crust on the outside.

💡 Think of it as the best of both worlds: the juiciness of roasted chicken with the crispiness of fried chicken!

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Is KFC Fried or Broasted?

KFC uses a pressure frying technique that is similar to broasting. However, since “Broaster” is a trademarked term, KFC does not use it. Instead, KFC pressure-fries its chicken using proprietary seasoning and methods, making it different from traditional broasted chicken.

💡 So while KFC chicken is not officially “broasted,” its cooking process is very close to broasting!

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Why Do They Call It Broasted Chicken?

The term Broasted comes from the Broaster Company, a brand that invented and patented the pressure frying technique in the 1950s. The company developed special Broaster fryers that combined pressure cooking and deep frying into a single process.

Since Broaster is a registered trademark, restaurants that don’t use the official Broaster equipment and ingredients cannot legally call their chicken “broasted.” However, many still refer to pressure-fried chicken as broast chicken because of its unique cooking method.

Can I Make Broasted Chicken Without a Pressure Fryer?

Yes! While using a pressure fryer is the best way to get authentic broast chicken, there are alternative methods:

Deep Frying + Covering: Use a deep fryer or a heavy pot with a lid to retain some moisture while frying.
Oven Baking: Bake coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Frying: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping once. Spray lightly with oil for crispiness.

While these methods won’t give you 100% authentic broasting results, they will still create a crispy and juicy chicken similar to broasting.

Conclusion: Why Broast Chicken Stands Out

chicken isn’t just another type of fried chicken—it’s a unique cooking method that delivers the best of both worlds: a crispy, golden crust with tender and juicy meat inside. By combining pressure cooking with deep frying, broasting locks in flavors while keeping the chicken from absorbing too much oil.

In this guide, we explored:

✅ What makes broast chicken different from regular fried chicken
✅ How the broasting process works and why it’s better
✅ Step-by-step instructions to make broast chicken at home
✅ The best places around the world to enjoy authentic broast chicken

Whether you’re cooking at home or looking for the best broast chicken spot near you, you now have everything you need to enjoy this delicious dish!

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Final Takeaways:

Broasting is a healthier and tastier alternative to deep-fried chicken.
Using a pressure fryer is the key to getting that signature crispy-yet-juicy texture.
You can still make broast-style chicken at home using a deep fryer, air fryer, or oven.
The best places to try authentic broast chicken include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Pakistan, India, and the USA.

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Your Turn!

Have you ever tried broast chicken? If so, where did you have the best one? Let us know in the comments!

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