There’s nothing quite like the irresistible crunch and juicy tenderness of Crispy Fried Chicken. Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or special occasions, this recipe delivers that golden, crunchy coating and flavorful meat every time.
By combining a seasoned buttermilk marinade with a perfectly balanced flour coating, you can achieve fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside — just like your favorite restaurant version, but made right at home.
Ingredients
Serves 6–8
For the Marinade
- 2 pounds (900g) chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
- 2 cups buttermilk (or whole milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar as a substitute)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Coating
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil, for deep frying (enough to submerge the chicken halfway in the pan)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Marinating time: 4 hours (or overnight for best results)
- Frying time: 20–25 minutes
- Total time: About 4 hours 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a large shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
- Remove chicken from marinade and allow excess liquid to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres well.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add a few chicken pieces at a time — don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 10–12 minutes per side, or until the coating is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Drain and Serve
- Remove chicken from the oil and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving for maximum crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and coleslaw for a classic Southern-style meal.
- Serve with honey butter biscuits and corn on the cob for a comforting dinner.
- Add a drizzle of hot honey or spicy mayo for a gourmet twist.
- Enjoy leftovers cold in a sandwich or wrap the next day.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 chicken piece, approx. 200g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Total Fat | 24 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15 grams |
| Sugars | 1 gram |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 480 milligrams |
| Cholesterol | 115 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken while adding subtle tanginess.
- Cornstarch and flour create a light, ultra-crispy crust.
- Frying oil choice impacts flavor — peanut oil gives a nutty aroma, while vegetable oil offers a neutral taste.
- For a lighter version, bake or air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 30–35 minutes until golden.
Tips for the Perfect Crunch
- Always marinate your chicken — it locks in moisture and enhances flavor.
- Use double-dipping (back into the buttermilk and flour mixture) for extra crunch.
- Maintain oil temperature between 325°F–350°F to ensure even cooking.
- Rest fried chicken on a wire rack, not paper towels, to preserve crispiness.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Fried Chicken: Add extra cayenne or chili flakes to the coating.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the flour blend.
- Asian-Style: Replace buttermilk with soy sauce and add a touch of sesame oil to the marinade.
- Air-Fryer Version: Spray coated chicken lightly with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes.
This Crispy Fried Chicken recipe brings restaurant-quality crunch and flavor straight to your kitchen. With its golden, seasoned crust and juicy interior, it’s a comfort food classic that never fails to impress.
Whether you’re making a family dinner, a weekend picnic, or hosting friends, this fried chicken is sure to be the star of the table — crispy, juicy, and absolutely unforgettable.