There’s just something magical about a plate of crispy fried chicken, isn’t there? For me, it brings back memories of family gatherings where the kitchen was filled with laughter and the mouthwatering aroma of golden-fried goodness wafting through the air. I remember my grandma making her famous fried chicken every Sunday. She had a secret spice blend that always left us guessing, and each bite of that crunchy exterior followed by the juicy, tender chicken inside was nothing short of heavenly.
This crispy fried chicken recipe pays homage to those cherished memories and captures that same delicious essence. Whether I’m whipping it up for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, it’s an all-time favorite that never disappoints. The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make! So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get frying.
What’s in Crispy Fried Chicken?
Chicken: I typically use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for maximum flavor and juiciness. You can go for drumsticks, thighs, or even wings! Whatever your heart desires.
Buttermilk: This is a game-changer! Soaking the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat while ensuring the coating sticks like a charm. Plus, that tangy flavor is just irresistible.
Flour: All-purpose flour is the star of the show for the breading – it gives the chicken that coveted crispy crust. I often toss in some cornstarch too for extra crunch.
Spices: Here’s where you can get creative! My go-to spice mix includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for some kick. You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Vegetable Oil: For frying, I prefer using a neutral oil like canola or peanut oil, as they have high smoke points and won’t overpower the chicken’s flavor.
Is Crispy Fried Chicken Good for You?
While crispy fried chicken is definitely a treat, let’s be real: it’s not exactly a health food. However, it does have some redeeming qualities, such as:
Protein: Chicken is a great source of protein, which helps in muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer. Just remember to stick to moderation!
Calcium: If you opt for buttermilk (which you definitely should), you’re adding some calcium to your meal, which is fantastic for bone health.
On the flip side, deep-frying can add a lot of unnecessary fats and calories, especially if you’re not careful with your oil temperatures and portion sizes. So, enjoy this crispy delight as an occasional indulgence, and you’ll be golden!
Ingredients
– 4 lbs of bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (about 6 servings)
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch (optional, for extra crunch)
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil (for frying)
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken?
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** Start by soaking your chicken pieces in buttermilk and a bit of salt in a bowl. Cover it and let it sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This will make the chicken extra tender and flavorful.
2. **Prepare the Coating:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
3. **Dredge the Chicken:** Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Make sure it’s well-coated and shake off any excess flour.
4. **Heat the Oil:** Fill a large, heavy-bottomed pot with about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C). A deep-fry thermometer is your best friend here!
5. **Fry the Chicken:** Carefully place a few pieces of chicken in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. **Drain the Chicken:** Once cooked, place the fried chicken on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before digging in, as this helps keep everything juicy and hot. Grab your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!
A Few Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Crispy Chicken
– **Double Dip Delight:** For an even crunchier coating, you can double-dip your chicken – after the first coat of flour, dip it back into the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture.
– **Resting Time:** Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes post-frying. This helps keep it crispy when you serve it.
– **Serving Suggestions:** Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a true southern experience.
I hope you give this crispy fried chicken a try! There’s nothing like the satisfaction of biting into that crunchy crust and juicy chicken beneath. If you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Happy cooking!
