Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for crispy fried chicken:
Ingredients:
-
For the marinade:
- 4 chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
-
For the coating:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
-
For frying:
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Add the chicken pieces and mix well, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally, overnight. This will help tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to create a thick, even coating. Set aside on a rack or plate.
3. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, pour enough oil to cover the bottom by about 1–2 inches (for deep frying).
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of flour into it—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
4. Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Fry for about 10–12 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and an internal thermometer reads 165°F (75°C).
5. Drain and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For extra crispy chicken, double coat by dipping the chicken in the flour mixture again after the first coat.
- You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for extra flavor.
- Serve your fried chicken with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for the perfect meal!
Enjoy your crispy fried chicken! 🍗