Ultimate Fried Chicken Recipe: Crispy & Juicy Delight

The aroma of sizzling fried chicken wafting through the air is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Imagine biting into that perfectly golden, crispy crust, followed by tender, juicy meat that practically melts in your mouth. It’s a sensory overload that promises love at first crunch.

When I think of my favorite fried chicken recipe, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter and clinking plates filled the air. Whether it was Sunday dinner or a summer picnic, this dish always made a grand entrance and stole the spotlight. The anticipation built as the chicken cooked, creating an undeniable buzz around the table.

I still remember my aunt’s delighted squeal when she tasted this dish for the first time; she declared it “the best fried chicken ever.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: These cuts stay juicy during cooking and have a rich flavor that makes every bite heavenly.

• Buttermilk: Marinating in buttermilk ensures your chicken is extra tender and flavorful; don’t skip this step!

• All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for creating that irresistible crispy coating that we all crave.

• Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to your flour mixture gives you an extra crunch factor that takes this chicken over the top.

• Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): A mix of spices adds depth to the flavor; feel free to adjust according to your taste.

• Salt and Pepper: Simple but necessary seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in this dish.

• Vegetable Oil: Use oil with a high smoke point for frying; peanut or canola oil works great here.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by marinating your chicken thighs and drumsticks in buttermilk for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible. This ensures tenderness and juiciness.

Create Your Coating Mixture: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well mixed. This blend creates a fabulous crunch.

Dredging Time!: Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk bath and let excess drip off before dredging them thoroughly in your flour mixture. Make sure they are completely coated.

Heat Up That Oil!: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to about 1 inch deep. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test by dropping a small amount of flour into the oil; if it sizzles, you’re good!

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry for about 12-15 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Drain and Rest!: Once fried to perfection, remove your chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.

Now you have perfectly crispy fried chicken ready to be devoured! Pair it with some mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a true southern feast!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to enhance flavor and tenderness. Then, coat the chicken thoroughly in flour before frying to achieve that perfect crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding garlic powder or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile of your fried chicken significantly.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for a crispy finish.

I remember making this fried chicken recipe for a family gathering, and everyone raved about it. My cousin even asked for my secret—little did they know it was all about that magical marination!

FAQ

What type of oil is best for frying fried chicken?

Use canola or peanut oil; they tolerate high heat and add great flavor.

Can I use boneless chicken for this fried chicken recipe?

Yes, but bone-in pieces provide more flavor and moisture during cooking.

How do I keep my fried chicken crispy after frying?

Place it on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent sogginess while cooling.

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Fried Chicken

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Fried chicken is a timeless comfort food that combines a crispy, golden crust with juicy, flavorful meat. This recipe brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and summer picnics, ensuring it will steal the spotlight at your table. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that promises to impress everyone—whether for a casual dinner or festive occasion. Let’s dive into making the best fried chicken that will have your taste buds dancing!

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum tenderness.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove chicken from buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture until fully coated.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry chicken pieces for about 12-15 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Author: DANIEL LAWSON
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 95mg