Chicken Fried Ribs: The Ultimate Crispy Southern Comfort Dish

Chicken Fried Ribs: A Crispy, Juicy Crowd-Pleaser

Key Information

Prep Time: 20-30 minutes

Cook Time: 10-20 minutes

Total Time: 2-2.5 hours

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Intermediate

Dietary: Not Vegetarian, Potentially Gluten-Free Option

Equipment Needed

• Large baking sheet
• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cooking thermometer
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Wire rack or paper towels

Ingredients

• 1 rack pork spare ribs (2.5-3.5 lbs)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour alternative)
• 2-3 eggs
• 4-6 cups canola oil
• 1-2 tbsp rib rub
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Optional: BBQ or Cajun seasoning

Method

1. Prepare the Ribs

• Coat ribs with rib rub and salt
• Wrap tightly in foil
• Bake at 350°F for 1.5 hours until tender
• Cool and separate into individual pieces

2. Create Dredging Station

• Mix flour with seasonings in the first bowl
• Whisk eggs with water in the second bowl
• Set up double-dredging for extra crunch

3. Coat the Ribs

• Dredge each rib in seasoned flour
• Dip in egg wash
• Coat again in flour mixture

4. Fry to Perfection

• Heat oil to 350-365°F
• Fry ribs in small batches
• Cook 5-10 minutes until golden brown
• Drain on wire rack

Crucial Tips

• Maintain consistent oil temperature
• Don’t overcrowd the fryer
• Let ribs cool slightly before baking
• Pat ribs dry before dredging

Storage

• Refrigerate up to 3 days
• Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes
• Freeze individual pieces for later

Variations

• Try beef ribs or country-style cuts
• Experiment with different spice blends
• Use air fryer for lighter version
• Pair with whiskey glaze or white BBQ sauce

Pro Moves

• Double dredging creates extra crispy coating
• Use meat thermometer to ensure 165°F internal temp
• Let ribs rest between cooking stages
• Serve immediately for maximum crunch

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping pre-cooking stage
• Wet ribs = soggy coating
• Oil too cool = greasy result
• Overcrowding fryer

Flavor Boosters

• Smoked paprika in flour coating
• Cayenne for heat
• Fresh herbs as garnish
• Craft beer pairing

Why You’ll Love This

These chicken fried ribs are a game-changer. Imagine fall-apart tender meat wrapped in a shatteringly crisp coating that’ll make your taste buds dance. It’s Southern comfort food taken to the next level – perfect for game day, backyard parties, or when you just need some serious meat therapy.

The magic is in the technique: par-cooking ensures tenderness, while the double-dredge creates a coating so crisp it’ll make a sound when you bite into it. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a culinary experience.