What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade fried chicken recipe is a surefire way to bring joy to your kitchen and your plate. You’ll love how simple and delicious it is, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Crispy, golden skin that stays crunchy for hours.
- Juicy, flavorful chicken that’s seasoned to perfection.
- Easy-to-follow steps, even for first-time fryers.
Recipe
Fried chicken is a beloved comfort food that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This classic recipe is simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or wings)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil works best)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight for extra tenderness).
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and coat each piece evenly in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken in batches for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Place fried chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Notes:
- For extra crispy chicken, double-dip by coating the chicken in flour, then buttermilk, and flour again.
- Verify oil temperature remains consistent to avoid greasy or burnt chicken.
Equipment:
- Large bowl
- Deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Wire rack or paper towels
- Meat thermometer
Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marinating)
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4-6 servings
Nutrition
Nutrition information may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving.
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 480mg |
| Total Carbs | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 25g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or buttery cornbread for a comforting meal. For drinks, I’ve found iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp soda to be the perfect match, balancing out the richness. What’s your go-to combo when serving fried chicken?
Side Dishes
When I’m planning a meal with fried chicken, I always think about how the sides can bring everything together. Classic options like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or tangy coleslaw are my go-tos—they balance the crunch and spice of the chicken perfectly. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll whip up some honey-glazed carrots or a fresh summer salad for a lighter touch. Don’t forget the biscuits! Warm, flaky biscuits with a drizzle of honey are a must for me. Each side adds something special, turning a simple fried chicken dinner into a feast that feels just right.
Drink Pairings
Since fried chicken’s bold flavors deserve drinks that can keep up, I love pairing it with something invigorating or slightly sweet to balance the richness. For me, a cold glass of sweet tea is a classic choice—its revitalizing sweetness cuts through the savory crunch. If I’m in the mood for bubbles, a crisp lemonade or ginger ale does the trick. On hot days, I’ll grab an ice-cold beer to complement the meal perfectly. For a fancier vibe, a chilled glass of rosé adds a nice touch. Whatever I choose, it’s all about enjoying every bite and sip together.
