The Best Fried Chicken Recipe Ever

The Best Fried Chicken Recipe Ever

Fried chicken is an all-time favorite loved by many. Its crispy texture and juicy interior make every bite a delight. This simple yet flavorful recipe ensures you get the perfect homemade fried chicken with a crunchy crust and tender meat inside. It’s a great dish to serve for family meals, gatherings, or just a comforting dinner. Packed with protein, this fried chicken is a satisfying treat, though it’s best enjoyed in moderation. It’s easy to customize the seasoning to your preference, so you can make it as spicy or mild as you like. Let’s dive into how to make the best fried chicken at home!

Servings and Prep Time

• Serves: 4-6 people
• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 20-25 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the best fried chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Start by washing and patting dry the chicken pieces with a paper towel. This step is crucial to ensure the flour mixture sticks well to the chicken.
2. Make the buttermilk mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.
3. Prepare the dry coating: In a separate large bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the spices are evenly combined with the flour.
4. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing down lightly to ensure an even, thick coating. Shake off any excess flour.
5. Fry the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F, carefully place the chicken pieces in the skillet. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Drain and serve: After frying, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and become extra crispy.
• Use buttermilk: Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar.
• Control oil temperature: The oil should be around 350°F for perfect frying. If the oil is too hot, the chicken may burn; too cool, and the chicken will absorb excess oil. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
• Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This ensures a moist and flavorful chicken.

Customization Tips

Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences. If you love spicy fried chicken, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk. For a milder version, simply skip the cayenne and use sweet paprika for a gentler flavor.

Enjoy this crispy, juicy fried chicken recipe that will undoubtedly become a family favorite!