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chicken skin chicharon recipe

Chicken Skin Chicharon

A twist to a classic snack featuring chicken skin that is deep fried and pairs well with a vinegar-based dip.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine Filipino
Servings 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds chicken skin
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/4 cup vinegar
  • 4 cloves garlic peeled and pounded
  • 1/2 tsp peppercorns cracked
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup lard or canola oil add more if needed

Instructions
 

  • In a pot over medium heat, combine chicken skin, water, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, and salt.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil then lower the heat and continue to cook it until the skins render fat and are softened but not falling apart.
  • With a slotted spoon, remove the skins from the pot.
  • Remove any stray peppercorns, garlic, and bay leaves, and discard.
  • Arrange the skins in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Place the tray in the refrigerator, uncovered, for about 1 hour or until completely it is cold.
  • Using a spoon, gently scrape away any subcutaneous fat.
  • Cut the skin into about 4-inch pieces.
  • In a 180 F oven, bake skins for about 2 to 3 hours or until dry with just a bit of flexibility.
  • In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 3-inches deep of lard or canola oil to 350 to 375 F.
  • Add chicken skins and deep-fry until they begin to puff and start to float. Do not overcrowd the pan and cook in batches as needed.
  • With a slotted spoon, remove from heat and drain on paper towels. Serve with spiced vinegar.

Notes

  • Alternatively, you can dry the chicken skins in the refrigerator instead of in the oven. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and refrigerate, uncovered, overnight.
  • Lard is one of the best oils for deep-frying with a 375 F smoke point.
  • If you prefer not to use lard, substitute it with other high-smoke point oils such as canola, safflower, or grapeseed oil.