If I could at least re-make a close to similar taste of Jollibee’s Chickenjoy in my own kitchen, would I dare try? Heck, yeah! And so, I will. And so, I did.
Jollibee has long convinced me as a kid that its Langhap Sarap Chickenjoy Fried Chicken has got to be one of the best chicken recipes ever cooked in the whole wide world. I suppose many Filipinos would agree with me on that. The ‘I Love You Sabado’ commercials of the giant food chain may have played a big part in the brainwash… but, it worked (and for a long time, too!). In fact, it took years before I finally opened my options (and palate) to the chicken of McDonald’s and KFC. They do have their differences. But what’s never gonna’ change is how I will always reminisce the wonders of being a child having a Jolly Chickenjoy and a small service of cupped rice neatly packed in a styro-foam as I ate those mouth-watering chicken legs and breast with gusto, content and pride. Priceless!
Now that I’m all grown up though, it’s about time I make my own fried chicken. Inspired and guided with that memory of eating the juiciest, tastiest Jolly Fried Chicken, CookingLikeAPro share this recipe with you.
Jolly Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken cut
- 1-2 tsp Salt
- 1-2 tsp Freshly ground black pepper
*Adjust depending on your preference
Jollibee Fried Chicken Wannabe Coating:
- ½ cup Rice flour
- ½ cup Cornstarch
- ½ tbsp Five spice powder
- ½ tbsp Garlic powder
- ½ tbsp Onion powder
- ½ tsp Salt
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Let the chucks sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Mix all the ingredients for coating on a large bowl. Make sure to combine them evenly.
- Start coating the chicken one by one. Make sure that all surface of the chicken is covered, including the inner portions under the skin.
- Shake off excess powder mixture from the chicken.
- Heat the oil for frying.
- When ready, fry the chicken under medium heat.
In our case, we didn’t deep fry our chucks because it seems to be too excessive. Just make sure that at least half of chicken is covered by the oil.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan with the chucks. Give them enough space to cook and breathe.
- Drain as they cook.
- Serve while hot.
Video
Notes
About Jolly Fried Chicken
The third Toronto Jollibee location recently opened at 79 Billy Bishop Way, with a shorter line compared to the Scarborough opening. Despite the wait, the food was deemed worth it. Tips for minimizing wait times include starting early, choosing the optimal location, and being prepared for a line, as making reservations in advance is advisable.
Jollibee, originating from the Philippines, is renowned for its signature fried chicken, described as tender, juicy, and uniquely flavorful. The brand’s mission is to spread the joy of fried chicken globally, with over 3,000 locations in the Philippines and a presence in various countries. Jollibee’s fried chicken, hand-breaded and extra crispy, is a highlight, often accompanied by gravy and rice.
In addition to fried chicken, Jollibee offers other popular dishes like banana ketchup-fried rice, spaghetti flavored with banana ketchup, ham, and cheese, and a fried pie with mangoes. The brand has expanded its presence in the US, recently opening a store in Houston, Texas. The iconic fried chicken is known for its special batter, yielding extra crispiness, and is often served with rice and gravy.
Jollibee’s international success is evident through its over 1,500 locations in the United States, becoming a staple in American fast food since the 1950s. It is owned by Jollibee Foods Corporation and operates in South America, the Philippines, and the Middle East. The brand’s popularity continues to grow globally, with a commitment to diversity reflected in its multicultural branding.
Tips and Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Jolly Fried Chicken
While Jolly Fried Chicken keeps their signature seasoning top secret, I’ve experimented at home to try to mimic their flavor profile. Here are some of my top tips:
Marinate overnight in buttermilk. Soaking the chicken in tangy buttermilk tenderizes the meat and helps it stay juicy when fried. Make sure to marinate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours.
Use a blend of spices. I like to use a mixture of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Adjust amounts to your taste.
Keep the oil hot. Fry between 350-375°F to get a crispy exterior without overcooking. Use a thermometer to monitor temperature.
Fry in batches. Don’t crowd the pan. Fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature.
Let rest before serving. Allow chicken to rest 5-10 minutes after frying so juices can redistribute.
FAQs About Jolly Fried Chicken
Here are answers to some common questions about making fried chicken Jolly style:
What cut of chicken works best? Chicken thighs or drumsticks are ideal because they stay juicier than breast meat. Skin-on, bone-in cuts add flavor.
What oil should I use? Peanut, vegetable, or canola oil work well. Avoid olive oil as it has a low smoke point.
How long does it take to fry? Around 12-15 minutes total. Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side until chicken is cooked through and coating is crispy.
Can I reheat leftover fried chicken? Yes, baked in a 350°F Best Dutch Oven for Sourdough Bread Baking for 15 minutes is best to maintain texture and moisture.
How long does fried chicken last? 3-4 days refrigerated. Reheat within this time for best quality.
Serving Suggestions for Jolly Fried Chicken
Jolly Fried Chicken is so flavorful and versatile – here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
On a sandwich – Tuck fried chicken tenders or thighs into a brioche bun with pickles, slaw, and your favorite sauce.
With waffles – No better brunch pairing than fried chicken and waffles! Add syrup, hot sauce, or honey.
Over a salad – Turn leftover fried chicken into a protein-packed salad topper. Goes great over greens with ranch or vinaigrette.
In a bowl – Shred or chop fried chicken and serve over rice, grains, or noodles for a hearty meal.
As an appetizer – Cut fried chicken into bites and serve with ranch, honey mustard or BBQ sauce for dipping.
However you choose to serve it, Jolly Fried Chicken is guaranteed to satisfy your crispy, juicy fried chicken cravings. The secret is in the buttermilk marinade and signature seasoning blend. I hope these tips help you recreate the magic at home. Let me know if you have any other questions about making this delicious fried chicken!
In conclusion, Jolly Fried Chicken is one of the most delicious fried chicken recipes I’ve ever tasted. With its tender, flavorful meat and crispy coating with signature seasoning, nothing else compares. I hope the cooking tips and serving suggestions in this post will help you recreate the amazing flavors of Jolly Fried Chicken right at home. Give the recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Wishing you success with making this mouthwateringly crispy, juicy fried chicken. When prepared properly, using a buttermilk marinade and special blend of spices, Jolly Fried Chicken achieves the perfect balance of juicy meat encased in a crispy, craggy coating. Let the post’s tips guide you to fried chicken bliss. I can’t wait for you to sink your teeth into the magic of this chicken. Now get cooking and enjoy this iconic crispy, zesty fried chicken.
