When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as iconic as Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe. Loved across America and beyond, this crispy, golden delicacy is a must-try for any home cook. With this easy recipe, you’ll learn the secrets to achieving a perfectly seasoned crust and tender, juicy meat inside. Whether for family dinners, picnics, or game day feasts, Fried Chicken always hits the spot.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, or a mix)
For the Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken (Minimum 2 Hours)
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Prepare the Coating (5 Minutes)
- In a large shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Coat the Chicken (10 Minutes)
- Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating. Place coated pieces on a wire rack to rest for 10 minutes.
Fry the Chicken (15–20 Minutes)
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 6–8 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Place fried chicken on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Crispy: Achieve a golden, crunchy crust every time.
- Juicy and Flavorful: Buttermilk marinade ensures tender, well-seasoned meat.
- Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s perfect for any occasion.
What makes fried chicken crispy?
The combination of flour, cornstarch, and baking powder creates a light, crispy coating. Letting the chicken rest after dredging ensures the coating sticks during frying.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! Place the coated chicken on a greased wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40–45 minutes.
What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils with high smoke points, like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, are ideal for frying.
Can I freeze fried chicken?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
What pairs well with fried chicken?
Classic sides include coleslaw, mashed potatoes, cornbread, and green beans.
This Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe is everything you’ve been craving—perfectly seasoned, golden brown, and oh-so-juicy. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
📣 Try it today and share your crispy creations! What’s your favorite side dish with fried chicken? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your photos. Let’s keep the comfort food vibes going!
