Fried chicken is a classic dish that never goes out of style. Its crispy, golden-brown exterior paired with tender, juicy meat is a comfort food favorite for many. Whether served with sides or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade fried chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant version!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 20-25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece of chicken) contains approximately 320 calories, 18g protein, 24g fat, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight in the fridge).
- In another bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, a few pieces at a time.
- Fry the chicken for about 10-12 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious fried chicken!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar for a similar effect. Gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Pairings
This fried chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. A refreshing salad or pickles can also complement the dish nicely.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Fried chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not letting the chicken marinate long enough in buttermilk.
- Overcrowding the pan while frying.
- Not preheating the oil adequately.
- Skipping the thermometer to check doneness.
- Using too much flour, making it clumpy.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even frying.
- Let the chicken rest after frying to retain juices.
- Experiment with spices in the flour for extra flavor.
- Use a splatter guard to minimize mess while frying.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.
What should I do if the oil starts smoking?
If the oil smokes, reduce the heat immediately. It’s a sign that the oil is too hot.
How can I make my fried chicken spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for additional spice.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
While buttermilk provides tenderness and flavor, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
Can I fry chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, an air fryer can produce crispy chicken with less oil. Adjust the cooking time according to your air fryer’s instructions.
Conclusion
This fried chicken recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of crunch and juiciness. With simple ingredients and steps, you can easily create a dish that delights the whole family. Enjoy it fresh or as leftovers, and watch it become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
Fried Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
- Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place chicken in the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes on each side.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F or 75°C).
- Remove chicken and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious fried chicken!
Nutrition
