For brine: |
Mix all ingredients except stevia together in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until salt is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Add stevia, if using. For chicken: Strain the spices and dill out of the brine and place it in a bowl with the chicken pieces, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for one hour. Pour chicken pieces into a sieve and drain thoroughly, discarding the brine. Wipe the bowl out with a paper towel. To the bowl, add 1 egg, beaten, and the two tablespoons of cream or almond milk and mix thoroughly. Return chicken pieces to the bowl with the egg/cream mixture and toss chicken to coat completely. In a separate small dish, mix together the arrowroot powder with the spices. Pour the chicken back into the sieve and shake over the sink to drain excess egg/cream mixture. Return chicken to bowl. Sprinkle spice/arrowroot mixture over chicken pieces and toss to thoroughly coat all pieces equally. In a small skillet or pan over medium-high heat, melt enough coconut oil to have a depth of about 3/4 to 1 inch. When oil is shimmering (but not smoking!) carefully add the chicken pieces, being careful not to crowd the pan. You will likely do 3-4 batches, depending on the size of your pan. Fry chicken about 5-6 minutes, turning pieces occasionally to brown evenly. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Keep warm until all chicken has been cooked. |