If you’re craving a taste of Southern comfort, look no further than Tamara's Buttermilk Country Fried Chicken! This mouthwatering dish combines juicy, tender chicken thighs with a perfectly crispy coating that will leave your taste buds dancing. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can whip up this classic recipe in under an hour, making it the perfect choice for a family dinner or a weekend gathering. Ready to impress your loved ones with a homemade meal that rivals your favorite diner? Let’s dive into the details of this delectable dish!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispy coating will adhere properly.
- In a large bowl, season the buttermilk with a pinch of salt and pepper. Submerge the chicken thighs completely in the buttermilk and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results) to tenderize the meat.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix the flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This will create the seasoned breading for the chicken.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each thigh thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a large cast-iron skillet to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be about 1-inch deep for proper frying.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken thighs into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from oil and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or buttermilk biscuits.
Tips
- Patience is Key: For the best results, marinate your chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with flavor.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Adjust the salt, pepper, and paprika to your taste to enhance the flavor of the chicken. A well-seasoned breading makes all the difference.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your oil is hot enough (350°F or 175°C) before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that golden-brown crust we all love while keeping the inside juicy.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken instead of crispy perfection.
- Rest Before Serving: After frying, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 160mg
