Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Easy Buttermilk Fried Chicken! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, this Southern classic is sure to become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a mouthwatering dish that rivals your favorite restaurant. Whether it's a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and let's dive into the delicious world of homemade fried chicken!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken pieces (legs or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, marinate chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and pat dry with paper towels, ensuring excess liquid is removed for crispy coating.
- In a separate shallow dish, mix all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoned coating.
- Dredge each piece of chicken thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess to ensure an even, light coating.
- Heat vegetable or canola oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accurate temperature control.
- Carefully place coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain oil temperature.
- Fry chicken for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from oil and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and coating to set.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, or even overnight. This not only tenderizes the meat but infuses it with rich flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: After marinating, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Removing excess buttermilk is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy coating.
- Season Your Flour: Don’t skip the seasoning in your flour mixture! The combination of paprika, salt, and pepper adds depth to the crust, enhancing the overall flavor of your fried chicken.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C). This is key to achieving that golden-brown color while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. This helps maintain the oil temperature and ensures even cooking for a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the fried chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after frying. This helps the juices redistribute and the coating to set, resulting in a more flavorful and satisfying dish.
- Pair with Classic Sides: Serve your fried chicken hot with classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, or flaky biscuits for a meal that’s sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
