When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfying crunch and tender juiciness of perfectly fried chicken. This Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe delivers all the flavors of an old-fashioned fried chicken recipe with a modern twist to make it even better. Whether you’re making chicken legs, drumsticks, or thighs, this recipe ensures crispy, flaky fried chicken every single time.
Let’s dive into how to make this timeless classic, complete with tips, variations, and tricks for achieving that coveted double-dredged crispy coating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Juicy: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk ensures it stays tender and moist inside.
- Ultra Crispy Coating: The double dredging technique creates an irresistibly flaky and crunchy crust.
- Versatile: Use this recipe for drumsticks, thighs, wings, or even chicken breasts.
- Easy to Make: With a few simple steps, you can create fried chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant.
- Family Favorite: This recipe is perfect for family dinners, picnics, or Sunday lunches.
Key Ingredients for Buttermilk Fried Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 chicken legs or drumsticks (can substitute thighs or wings)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
For the Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying (peanut or canola oil works best)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Rinse and pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and ensure it’s fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This step ensures juicy, flavorful chicken.
2. Prepare the Coating
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of the buttermilk mixture for the coating process.
3. Double Dredge the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting the excess drip off.
- Dip each piece into the flour mixture, coating thoroughly.
- For extra crispiness, dip the floured chicken back into the reserved buttermilk, then dredge it in the flour mixture again. This double dredging creates the signature flaky fried chicken crust.
4. Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Test the oil by dropping a small piece of batter into it. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
5. Fry the Chicken
- Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the fried chicken hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. Enjoy the crispy, juicy perfection!
Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Fried Chicken
- Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken in buttermilk, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Overnight is ideal.
- Keep the Oil Temperature Steady: Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F ensures even cooking and prevents greasy chicken.
- Use a Wire Rack: Draining the chicken on a wire rack keeps it crispy, unlike paper towels which can make it soggy.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning for both the marinade and the coating. The flavor comes from these layers.
- Double Dredge for Extra Crunch: This step is key to achieving that flaky, crispy crust.
Variations of Buttermilk Fried Chicken
1. Fried Chicken Soaked in Buttermilk
For an authentic, old-fashioned fried chicken recipe, marinate the chicken overnight in plain buttermilk with a touch of salt and pepper.
2. Fried Chicken Legs Recipe (No Buttermilk)
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. KFC Drumsticks Style
Add a pinch of ground sage, thyme, and oregano to the coating mixture to mimic KFC’s signature flavor.
4. Spicy Fried Chicken
Add extra cayenne pepper or chili powder to the coating for a spicy kick.
5. Gluten-Free Option
Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.
What to Serve with Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Classic Southern Sides:
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Creamy coleslaw
- Mashed potatoes with gravy
- Collard greens
Modern Twists:
- Sweet potato fries
- Roasted vegetables
- Honey butter cornbread
- Pickled vegetables
FAQs About Buttermilk Fried Chicken
1. Can I bake this recipe instead of frying?
Yes! Place the coated chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
3. Can I use boneless chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well but may require less cooking time.
4. What oil is best for frying chicken?
Peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil are great choices for frying as they have high smoke points.
Conclusion
This Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe is everything you love about fried chicken: crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. With its double-dredged, flaky crust and tender, buttermilk-marinated chicken, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never fails to satisfy.
Ready to try this recipe? Gather your ingredients, heat up the oil, and get ready to enjoy the best fried chicken you’ve ever made. Don’t forget to share your creations and make this recipe a staple in your kitchen!
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