Tucky chicken is a humble, old-school fried chicken recipe that delivers big crunch and comfort with very simple ingredients. Boneless chicken breasts are coated in a seasoned cracker crust, then fried until golden and crisp on the outside while staying juicy inside. It’s nostalgic, satisfying, and perfect when you want classic fried chicken flavor without complicated steps.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s easy, affordable, and incredibly crispy. The saltine cracker coating creates a light but crunchy crust that fries beautifully without getting greasy. There’s no long marinating time or fancy breading, just pantry staples and solid technique. It’s family-friendly, great for weeknight dinners, and works just as well for casual gatherings or comfort food cravings.

Tucky Chicken

Tucky chicken is one of those recipes that feels like it came straight from a handwritten recipe card.

It’s simple, practical, and designed to make the most of what’s already in the pantry.

Instead of breadcrumbs, this recipe uses crushed saltine crackers, which fry up crisp and golden.

The crackers add a subtle saltiness that seasons the chicken from the outside in.

Potato flakes may seem unexpected, but they add lightness and help the coating stick evenly.

A small amount of flour binds everything together, creating a crust that holds up well in hot oil.

Seasoned salt and black pepper keep the flavor familiar and comforting.

Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps cooking time manageable and ensures even frying.

Dipping the chicken in egg before coating helps the crumbs cling tightly to the meat.

Shaking the chicken in a bag evenly coats every piece without mess.

Maintaining the right oil temperature is key to achieving that perfect crunch.

Turning the chicken occasionally ensures even browning without burning.

The result is chicken that’s crisp on the outside and tender inside.

This recipe pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or green beans.

If you love straightforward fried chicken with a nostalgic feel, Tucky chicken delivers every time.

Servings & Time

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes

• Total Time: About 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves

• 30 saltine crackers

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons dry potato flakes

• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 large egg

• 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Place the saltine crackers in a large resealable plastic bag and crush into coarse crumbs using a rolling pin.

2. Add the flour, potato flakes, seasoned salt, and black pepper to the bag. Seal and shake until well combined.

3. Beat the egg in a shallow bowl.

4. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, coating both sides.

5. Transfer the chicken to the bag with the cracker mixture, seal, and shake gently until evenly coated.

6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy saucepan to 350°F (175°C).

7. Fry the chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 15 to 20 minutes.

8. Remove and drain briefly on paper towels before serving.

Tips

• Even Cooking: Pound thicker chicken breasts slightly for uniform thickness.

• Extra Crunch: Let coated chicken rest for 5 minutes before frying.

• Oil Test: Drop a crumb into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.

• Oven Finish: If browning too quickly, finish cooking in a 350°F oven.

• Storage: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated up to 2 days.