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Max's style Fried Chicken

Max’s Fried Chicken is known for its unbreaded crispy skin, deep-fried to golden perfection after being steamed with herbs. Unlike heavily battered fried chicken, this version highlights the natural flavor of the chicken, enhanced by aromatics like bay leaves, salt, pepper, and cilantro.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 2 people

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole spring chicken cornish game hen
  • ▢6 pieces dried bay leaves
  • ▢1/4 cup chopped cilantro or parsley
  • ▢4 cups water
  • ▢3 cups cooking oil
  • ▢2 tsp salt
  • ▢1 tsp ground black pepper

Method
 

Step 1: Steam the Chicken
  1. Pour 4 cups of water into a steamer and bring to a boil.
  2. Add bay leaves and chopped cilantro/parsley.
  3. Place the chicken in the steamer and cook for 45 minutes.
  4. 💡 This step makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Let It Rest
  1. Remove the chicken from the steamer.
  2. Allow it to drain and cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
  1. Rub the chicken all over with salt and black pepper.
  2. 💡 This ensures the flavor reaches the skin and meat.
Step 4: Deep Fry to Golden Perfection
  1. Heat 3 cups of cooking oil in a deep pot or fryer.
  2. When the oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully lower the chicken.
  3. Deep-fry for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
  4. If the chicken isn’t fully submerged, flip halfway and fry each side for 12 minutes.
Step 5: Drain & Serve
  1. Remove the chicken and allow excess oil to drip.
  2. Slice and serve with fried kamote and banana ketchup or Worcestershire sauce.