Print

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Is Irresistible

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Is Irresistible

Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a classic Southern dish featuring tender, juicy chicken pieces soaked in tangy buttermilk, then coated with a crispy seasoned flour crust. This recipe delivers a flavorful, crunchy, and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks (about 3-4 lbs)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: splash of hot sauce

Seasoned Coating

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil, enough for deep frying (about 4 cups)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine buttermilk with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a splash of hot sauce if desired. Fully submerge chicken pieces in this mixture and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to tenderize and infuse flavor.
  2. Mix the Seasoned Flour: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne to create the flavorful coating.
  3. Dredge the Chicken: Remove each chicken piece from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Thoroughly coat each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure an even and adherent crust.
  4. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or frying pan and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for even cooking and to avoid burning.
  5. Fry to Golden Perfection: Carefully place chicken pieces into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the crust is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Drain and Rest: Remove the chicken from oil and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and keep the coating crisp as it rests.

Notes

  • Marinate overnight for maximum tenderness.
  • Double dredge by dipping coated chicken back into buttermilk and flour for extra crunch.
  • Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F to avoid greasy or burnt chicken.
  • Use a wire rack for draining to maintain crust crispness.
  • Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: buttermilk fried chicken, southern fried chicken, crispy fried chicken, comfort food, fried chicken recipe, easy fried chicken