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chicken crackling

How to Make Chicken Cracklings / Rinds

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken skin from thighs or breasts, with excess fat trimmed
  • Kosher salt
  • Seasonings of choice e.g., garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, or dry rubs
  • Water optional for rendering fat evenly

Instructions
 

  • Gather and Freeze Skins: Accumulate chicken skins over time by storing them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, defrost them in a colander to drain excess water.
  • Dry the Skins: Pat the skins completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
  • Season the Skins: Lay each skin flat on a cutting board and sprinkle both sides with your preferred seasonings. For best results, stack seasoned skins to save space and maintain their shape during cooking.

Cooking Methods

    1. Pan-Frying:

    • Use a large, non-stick frying pan.
    • Lay the skins fat-side down in a cold pan. Slowly heat to medium, allowing the fat to render out.
    • Add a splash of water to help render more fat and ensure even cooking.
    • Flip the skins occasionally until they’re golden brown and crispy.
    • Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

    2. Oven-Baking:

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Place skins on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
    • Top with another sheet of parchment and a second baking tray to keep the skins flat.
    • Bake for 20–30 minutes or until deep golden brown.

    3. Air Frying:

    • Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
    • Lay skins flat in the basket and use parchment paper with a ceramic plate to prevent curling.
    • Air fry for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.