Bring Home the Flavor with This Classic Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe!

Photo byAngie Bright

There's something undeniably comforting about biting into a piece of perfectly fried chicken. That first crunch of crispy, golden breading followed by juicy, flavorful meat is the stuff of culinary dreams. Fried chicken has become a beloved staple across many cultures, but nothing quite compares to homemade fried chicken, made with love and a few simple, fresh ingredients.

This crispy fried chicken recipe is sure to deliver the satisfying crunch and savory flavor you're craving. With a few basic steps and some patience, you can enjoy restaurant-quality fried chicken right from your own kitchen. Whether you're planning a casual dinner, a picnic with friends, or a weekend indulgence, this dish is bound to please.

The Secret to Crispy Fried Chicken

At the heart of this recipe is the buttermilk marinade, which not only adds tanginess but also helps tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy. The buttermilk is infused with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper for just the right amount of heat. If you prefer a milder version, feel free to skip the cayenne, but for those who enjoy a bit of spice, it's the perfect kick.

The real star of fried chicken is the crispy coating. To achieve that signature crunch, each piece of chicken is dredged in seasoned flour before frying. The key is to make sure each piece is thoroughly coated, ensuring an even, golden-brown crust.

Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to mix.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
3. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the flour with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there is enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces, but don’t overfill the pot.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
6. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for about 12 to 15 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
7. Once fried, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Serving Suggestions

This crispy fried chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. For a refreshing contrast, serve it with a side of green beans or a crisp salad. Don’t forget the dipping sauces—whether you prefer honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or spicy hot sauce, a little dip can take your fried chicken experience to the next level.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it at family dinners, backyard barbecues, or even as the star of a picnic spread. No matter the occasion, homemade fried chicken is always a hit. With its crunchy coating and juicy interior, each bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction.

Once you've mastered this recipe, you can experiment with the seasoning, adding your own favorite spices or herbs to make it uniquely yours. Whether you stick to the classic version or spice things up, crispy fried chicken will remain a timeless dish that brings people together.

Here are the sources for the crispy buttermilk fried chicken recipe that you requested:

1. Chef John's Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe from Allrecipes gives a detailed breakdown of marinating the chicken in buttermilk to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior. This source also highlights the importance of maintaining oil temperature during frying​(Allrecipes).
2. A Family Feast provides additional tips on double-breading the chicken for extra crunch and the use of cast iron for even frying. It also explains how to handle oil temperatures and cook each piece to golden perfection​(A Family Feast®).
3. Simply Recipes offers useful tips for achieving crispy skin by allowing the chicken to rest before frying and using a mixture of garlic salt, onion salt, and cayenne pepper for extra flavor​(Simply Recipes).
4. Martha Stewart's Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe outlines a classic approach with a brining process before marinating in buttermilk, ensuring moist, flavorful meat​(Martha Stewart).
5. The Soul Food Pot's Black Folks Buttermilk Fried Chicken presents a soulful twist on the classic recipe, emphasizing the cultural significance of this dish in Southern cooking​(The Soul Food Pot).