Oh, crispy juicy fried chicken—how I adore it! This dish reminds me of family gatherings where the aroma of fried chicken would fill the kitchen, creating a sense of warmth and joy. I can still picture my grandma, standing proudly by the stove, as she perfected that golden crust that makes every bite a delightful crunch. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like biting into a piece of chicken that’s not only tender but also bursting with flavor. If you’re looking to impress friends or just treat yourself, this crispy juicy fried chicken recipe is the one you need in your life!
Ingredients List
To make the most mouthwatering crispy juicy fried chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (this ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful)
- 2 cups buttermilk (for that tenderizing magic—trust me, it makes a difference!)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (the foundation for our golden crust)
- 1 tablespoon paprika (for a hint of smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (adds a savory depth)
- 1 tablespoon onion powder (for extra flavor goodness)
- 1 teaspoon salt (enhances all the flavors)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (for a little kick)
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough to submerge the chicken and get it crispy)
Gather these delicious ingredients, and let’s get frying!
How to Prepare Crispy Juicy Fried Chicken
Preparing crispy juicy fried chicken is a delightful journey that begins with marinating and ends with that satisfying crunch. Let’s dive into the steps to make your chicken absolutely irresistible!
Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, but if you can swing it, overnight is even better! This not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with moisture and flavor. Wow, the difference is incredible!
Prepare the Coating
While the chicken is soaking up all that buttery goodness, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This tasty blend is what will give our chicken that gorgeous, crispy crust. Once it’s mixed well, you’re ready to coat!
Heat the Oil
Next, heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). This is the magic temperature for frying, so use a thermometer if you have one! Too hot, and you’ll burn the crust; too cool, and the chicken will be greasy. We want that perfect balance!
Fry the Chicken
Now, it’s time to fry! Carefully coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Fry them in batches to avoid crowding the pan, cooking each batch for about 15-18 minutes, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Trust me, the smell will drive you wild!
Tips for Success
Want to take your crispy juicy fried chicken to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips! First off, don’t skip the marination time; the longer you let that chicken soak in buttermilk, the more tender and flavorful it becomes. If you’re craving extra crunch, try double-dipping—after coating in flour, dip the chicken back in buttermilk and then into the flour again. Ooh, it makes such a difference! Also, make sure your oil is at the right temperature; it’s key for that perfect golden crust. And remember, letting the chicken rest on paper towels after frying helps maintain that crispy goodness!
Nutritional Information
When indulging in this crispy juicy fried chicken, it’s good to know what you’re savoring! Each piece has approximately 400 calories, 25g of fat, 25g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, but they’ll help you enjoy your meal with a little awareness!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect crispy juicy fried chicken? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up, along with my tried-and-true answers. This dish is so beloved, and I want you to master it just like I did!
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your crispy juicy fried chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay good for about 3-4 days. Just remember, reheat in the oven for that crispy texture—microwaving can make it soggy!
Can I bake instead of fry?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can bake your chicken. Just coat it as usual, place it on a baking sheet, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-35 minutes. It won’t be quite as crispy, but it’ll still be delicious!
What sides pair well with this dish?
Crispy juicy fried chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or buttery corn on the cob. You can also serve it with a refreshing green salad to balance out all that flavor. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
- You’ll impress your family and friends with that golden crust.
- Every bite is crispy and juicy, making it utterly addictive.
- This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
- It’s versatile—great on its own or paired with your favorite sides.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day.
- You’ll feel like a kitchen pro after mastering this classic dish!
Crispy Juicy Fried Chicken: 7 Tips for Perfect Crunch
- Total Time: 150 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy juicy fried chicken with a golden crust.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture.
- Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-18 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour.
- Let chicken rest after frying for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: crispy juicy fried chicken
