Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Crispy and Golden Fried Chicken recipe. With its perfectly seasoned, crispy coating and tender, juicy meat, this fried chicken is sure to be a hit at any meal. Follow these simple steps to achieve the best homemade fried chicken that’s golden and delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4-6 pieces of chicken (drumsticks or thighs)
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Clean and Dry the Chicken:
- Clean and pat dry the chicken pieces with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Marinate in Buttermilk:
- In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for better results. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- Mix the Coating Ingredients:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Remove Chicken from Buttermilk:
- Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off.
- Dredge in Flour Mixture:
- Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Place the coated chicken on a plate and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the coating to adhere better.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil maintains the correct temperature.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches if necessary to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
- Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on all sides. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Drain and Serve
- Drain Excess Oil:
- Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the coating to set and become extra crispy.
- Enjoy:
- Serve your crispy and golden fried chicken hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
Tips for Success
- Marinating: Allowing the chicken to marinate in buttermilk overnight will result in a more flavorful and tender chicken.
- Even Coating: Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating that will stay crispy.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for the best results. Too hot and the coating will burn; too cool and the chicken will be soggy.
Health Benefits
While fried chicken is an indulgent treat, you can balance your meal with healthy sides like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Using canola oil, which is lower in saturated fats, can make this dish a bit healthier without compromising on taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use other cuts of chicken?
A: Yes, you can use other cuts like wings, breasts, or a whole chicken cut into pieces. Adjust the frying time as needed for different cuts.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain crispiness.
Q: Can I bake this chicken instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until it is crispy and cooked through. Spray with cooking oil to help the coating crisp up.
Q: What can I serve with fried chicken?
A: Fried chicken pairs well with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, or a fresh green salad.
This Crispy and Golden Fried Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves classic comfort food. With its perfectly seasoned, crispy coating and juicy meat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delicious fried chicken and explore more of our recipes for additional culinary inspiration!
