Food has a magical way of bringing people together, turning strangers into family and meals into memories. When the table is set, it speaks a universal language, and during the festive season, that connection feels even stronger.
In South Africa, the December holidays are not just about Christmas but also about celebrating unity. It is a time when people reflect on the importance of togetherness, bridging divides, and creating shared traditions.
No festive celebration in Mzansi feels complete without the timeless joy of fried chicken. Whether served straight from the pot or paired with a smoky braai, chicken is a culinary tradition that has been uniting loved ones for generations.
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Zintle Mayekiso, a student chef at the International Hotel School from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, says fried chicken is the perfect dish for any occasion, even during the holiday season. It even makes those cousins who only eat white meat feel extra special, she jokes.
The family bond
Mayekiso recalls how chicken brought joy two years ago, even when many were unemployed. Its affordability made Christmas special.
“Those who couldn’t buy it reared their own, Chicken isn’t just affordable; it saves time and electricity. It’s quick to prepare, even for unexpected guests,” she adds.
“That crispy layer after frying takes me back to childhood Christmases, sharing meals with cousins and creating memories.”
Her grandparents, she remembers never bought chicken. “They reared their own, making every meal special. Turning a tough bird into tender, golden-crispy fried chicken was pure joy. It brought everyone together”
Spice up your holiday table
“With just the right blend of spices and a touch of creativity, chicken is so versatile – you can truly make it your own,” Mayekiso says. “Whether it’s sweet and savoury, sticky with sauce, dry and spiced, or served in a thick relish gravy, it’s quick and easy to prepare.”
Mayekiso’s buttery crispy fried chicken promises to bring people together. Perfectly golden and tender, it is simple yet impressive. Gather your ingredients and make this festive favourite part of your holiday tradition.
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Chef Zintle Mayekiso’s Buttery Crispy Fried Chicken
Ingredients
- 1.5kg chicken pieces
- Your preferred spice mix
- 2 cups amasi (or plain yoghurt mixed with ¼ cup milk)
- 2 cups flour
- 2 tbsp paprika (for seasoning and colour)
- Salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups flour
- Oil for frying
Instructions
STEP 1: Pour amasi (or plain yoghurt with a splash of milk) into a shallow bowl. Dip each chicken piece into the mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
STEP 2: In a resealable bag, combine flour, paprika, salt, and your preferred spice mix. Shake to mix well.
STEP 3: Place the soaked chicken into the bag, seal it, and shake thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly.
STEP 4: Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet and let it rest, covered, for a few minutes.
STEP 5: Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Brown the chicken on both sides, then reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 30 minutes.
STEP 6: Remove the cover, increase the heat, and fry the chicken until it’s extra crispy.
STEP 7: Drain the chicken on paper towels before serving.
This crispy fried chicken is guaranteed to impress at any holiday feast.
