Crispy Fried Chicken

Crispy, crunchy, golden-brown fried chicken—who can resist it? This Crispy Fried Chicken is the perfect balance of juicy, tender meat with a crispy, flavorful coating that’s absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a family dinner, or just indulging in some comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. It’s everything you crave in fried chicken: a satisfying crunch, savory seasoning, and tender chicken on the inside. Trust me, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Fried Chicken

Here’s why this crispy fried chicken is a must-try:

• Crispy Perfection: The secret to the ultimate crunch? A well-seasoned flour coating and frying technique that ensures every piece of chicken is golden brown and perfectly crispy.
• Tender and Juicy: While the outside is crispy, the inside remains wonderfully juicy, thanks to a quick marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor.
• Flavorful Seasoning: This chicken is seasoned inside and out with a blend of spices that adds depth and warmth to each bite.
• Classic Comfort Food: There’s something about fried chicken that just feels like home. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and puts smiles on everyone’s faces.
• Customizable: Want a little kick? Add cayenne pepper. Prefer a milder flavor? Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. This recipe is your blank canvas for the perfect fried chicken.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• Buttermilk: The key to tender, juicy chicken. It helps break down the proteins, making the chicken extra moist.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a rich, savory depth to the marinade.
• Onion Powder: For a subtle, sweet flavor that complements the garlic.
• Paprika: Gives a smoky, slightly sweet taste and a gorgeous color.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out all the flavors.

For the Coating:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for a perfectly crispy crust.
• Cornstarch: Helps to make the crust extra crispy.
• Baking Powder: Gives the coating a light, airy crunch.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: More of those savory flavors that build up the coating’s taste.
• Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color to the flour mixture.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional): For a little heat, if you like some spice!
• Salt & Pepper: Seasoning for the coating to ensure each bite is flavorful.

For Frying:

• Vegetable Oil (or Peanut Oil): For frying the chicken to crispy perfection.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get that crispy fried chicken going!

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by mixing together buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add your chicken pieces to the bowl and make sure they’re all submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This step ensures the chicken is flavorful and tender.

2. Prepare the Coating

In another large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. This is your crispy coating, and it’s going to give the chicken that golden, crunchy exterior.

3. Coat the Chicken

Take each piece of marinated chicken and dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s fully coated. For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and coat it again in the flour mixture. Repeat this process for each piece of chicken.

4. Heat the Oil

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. You can check the oil by dropping a small bit of the flour mixture into it—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

5. Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Cook the chicken for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

6. Drain the Chicken

Once the chicken is perfectly crispy and golden, remove it from the oil and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy fried chicken hot, with your favorite sides and sauces. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and utterly delicious.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 580

• Total Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 45g
• Calcium: 8% DV
• Iron: 12% DV
• Potassium: 10% DV

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Crispy Fried Chicken

This crispy fried chicken is perfect on its own, but there are plenty of delicious sides that pair wonderfully with it:

• Mashed Potatoes: Classic comfort food that’s perfect for soaking up any drippings.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw is a great way to add crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn on the cob adds a nice contrast to the savory fried chicken.
• Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits are always a hit with fried chicken. Use them to soak up the sauce or just enjoy on the side.

Additional Tips

• For Extra Crispiness: For an even crunchier coating, double coat the chicken by dipping it in the buttermilk and flour mixture twice.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
• Control the Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If it’s too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it’s too cool, the coating will become soggy.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the fried chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate for a few minutes to let the oil drain and to maintain its crispy texture.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispiness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can use boneless chicken pieces, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter. Be sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Q2: Can I bake this chicken instead of frying it?
A2: Yes, you can bake the chicken! Coat the chicken as directed, then bake it at 400°F (200°C) on a rack over a baking sheet for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

Q3: Can I use a deep fryer for this recipe?
A3: Absolutely! If you have a deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the chicken in batches, just as you would in a skillet.

Q4: How can I make the coating spicier?
A4: Add more cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.

Q5: Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
A5: Fried chicken is best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken by marinating it in advance. You can also store fried chicken in the fridge and reheat it in the oven to retain some crispiness.

Q6: Can I use other cuts of chicken?
A6: Yes, you can use thighs, drumsticks, or even wings. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut.

Q7: What oil should I use for frying?
A7: Vegetable oil or peanut oil works best for frying because they have a high smoke point and result in a crispy finish.

Q8: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A8: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Q9: Can I make the chicken gluten-free?
A9: Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch for the coating to make it gluten-free. Make sure all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Q10: How do I keep the chicken crispy after frying?
A10: To keep the chicken crispy, avoid covering it while it rests. Let it sit on a cooling rack or a paper towel-lined plate so the air can circulate around it.

Conclusion

This Crispy Fried Chicken is everything you want in a fried chicken recipe—crispy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, a party, or as a special treat, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the crispy perfection that will have everyone coming back for more!

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