Fried chicken, known locally as "Chicken Inasal" or simply "Fried Chicken," is a staple at Filipino gatherings, street food stalls, and family meals. The use of fish sauce and cornstarch reflects the Filipino love for umami seasoning and extra‑crisp textures, making it a beloved comfort food across the Philippines.

In the Visayas, chicken is often marinated with soy sauce and calamansi; in Luzon, garlic and pepper dominate; in Mindanao, a hint of chili or coconut milk may be added. The core technique of a double coating—batter then flour—remains consistent.

It is typically served hot with steamed rice, a side of pickled vegetables (atsara), and a dipping sauce of vinegar with garlic and chilies. It also appears on buffet tables during fiestas and birthday celebrations.

Fried chicken is a go‑to dish for birthdays, fiestas, Christmas Eve (Noche Buena), and family reunions. Its crunchy texture and satisfying flavor make it a crowd‑pleaser for any festive gathering.

The combination of fish sauce, cornstarch, and a brief rest creates a uniquely airy yet crunchy crust that stays crisp even after cooling. This technique sets Filipino fried chicken apart from other Asian fried chicken styles.

Common errors include overcrowding the pan, which drops oil temperature; not letting the batter rest, resulting in a soggy coating; and over‑cooking the chicken, which makes it dry. Keep oil at 165‑175 °C and fry in small batches for best results.

Cornstarch creates a lighter, more delicate crust that stays crisp longer. It also helps seal the moisture inside the chicken, keeping the meat juicy while the exterior turns golden.

Yes. After frying, let the chicken cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven (350°F) for 10‑12 minutes to restore crispness.

The crust should be uniformly golden‑brown, slightly glossy, and crackle when tapped. Inside, the meat should be white with clear juices and register 170 °F on a thermometer.

The YouTube channel Kuya Fern's Cooking focuses on Filipino home‑cooking tutorials, offering step‑by‑step guides for classic dishes, street‑food favorites, and everyday family meals with practical tips for home cooks.

Kuya Fern's Cooking emphasizes clear safety reminders, such as hand‑washing and oil‑splatter protection, and often includes cost‑effective ingredient swaps and detailed timing notes, making the recipes especially accessible for beginners.