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Fried Chicken Recipe 

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Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken:

  • Pat the chicken pieces dry using paper towels. This will ensure the breading sticks well.
  • Season all sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.

2. Make the Buttermilk Marinade:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This step tenderizes the chicken and gives it a fantastic flavor.

3. Prepare the Seasoned Flour:

  • In a large shallow dish or bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This blend creates that irresistible, crispy coating.

4. Dredge the Chicken:

  • Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
  • Dredge each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour into the chicken to ensure it sticks well. For an extra-crispy coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour again.

5. Heat the Oil:

  • In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, add enough vegetable oil or shortening to submerge the chicken pieces by at least 1-2 inches.
  • Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate for even cooking.

6. Fry the Chicken:

  • Carefully place a few pieces of chicken into the hot oil at a time. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
  • Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Drain and Rest:

  • Once the chicken is cooked through and golden, remove it from the oil and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
  • Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you have the perfect fried chicken, it’s time to serve it up! Pair it with any of these classic sides:

  • Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
  • Corn on the Cob
  • Collard Greens
  • Biscuits or Cornbread
  • Coleslaw

For a fresh contrast, serve with a simple green salad or pickles on the side. And don’t forget your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, honey mustard, or classic hot sauce work wonders.


Tips for Success

  1. Don’t Skimp on the Marinade: Letting your chicken soak in the buttermilk mixture for hours allows the flavors to infuse and creates tender, juicy meat.
  2. Maintain the Right Oil Temperature: Using a cooking thermometer will help you keep the oil at the perfect 350°F. Too hot, and your chicken will burn on the outside before cooking on the inside; too cold, and the breading will absorb excess oil.
  3. Double Dip for Extra Crunch: If you love an ultra-crispy coating, try dipping your chicken twice in the buttermilk and seasoned flour.
  4. Rest Before Serving: Allowing your fried chicken to rest after frying keeps the inside juicy and prevents steam from softening the crispy coating.

Final Thoughts

This fried chicken recipe is guaranteed to impress every time you make it. The crispy, flavorful breading, paired with tender, juicy chicken, makes this a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or simply treating yourself to comfort food at home, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Enjoy your homemade fried chicken with your favorite sides, and savor every crispy, juicy bite. Happy frying!

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