Welcome to the ultimate guide for making the best buttermilk fried chicken! This recipe ensures that your chicken is incredibly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, bursting with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this buttermilk fried chicken will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s get started!
Why Buttermilk Fried Chicken?
Buttermilk marination is the key to tender and flavorful fried chicken. The acidity in the buttermilk helps to tenderize the chicken while adding a tangy flavor, and it ensures the coating sticks well during frying.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 8 pieces of chicken (thighs, drumsticks, breasts, wings)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (canola, peanut, or vegetable oil works best)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Zip-top bag or large bowl for marinating
- Shallow bowls for breading
- Deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet