Delicious crispy fried chicken served hot and golden-brown

Crispy Fried Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Crispy Fried Chicken is a classic comfort food that many love. It’s perfect for gatherings, family meals, or even a cozy night at home. The crunchy exterior and juicy inside make it a delicious choice, and it’s simple to prepare, even for beginners! Plus, the smell of fried chicken cooking is hard to resist.

how to make Crispy Fried Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 four-pound chicken, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for coating
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 quarts vegetable oil for frying

Directions:

  1. Start by taking your cut-up chicken pieces and skin them if you prefer.
  2. In a large plastic bag, pour in the flour and season it with paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, ensuring it’s well-coated, then transfer it into the bag with the flour mixture.
  4. Seal the bag and shake it well to coat the chicken pieces in the flour.
  5. After coating, place the chicken on a cookie sheet and let it sit until the flour becomes paste-like.
  6. Fill a skillet with vegetable oil and heat it until very hot.
  7. Carefully fry the chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure they turn brown on both sides.
  8. Once browned, cover the skillet and cook for 30 minutes. After that, remove the cover and fry until the chicken is crispy.
  9. Place the cooked chicken on paper towels to drain excess oil, and keep it warm in the oven until you’re ready to serve.

how to serve Crispy Fried Chicken

Serve Crispy Fried Chicken hot, straight from the oven. It goes well with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. You can also add some dipping sauces like ranch or hot sauce for extra flavor.

how to store Crispy Fried Chicken

To store leftover Crispy Fried Chicken, let it cool completely first. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before eating!

tips to make Crispy Fried Chicken

  • For extra crunch, you can double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and flour.
  • Letting the coated chicken sit before frying helps it get an even better crust.
  • Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature; it should be about 350°F (175°C) for frying.

variation

You can add different herbs and spices to the flour for a unique flavor. Try garlic powder, onion powder, or even cayenne pepper if you like it spicy!

FAQs

  1. Can I use chicken breasts instead?
    Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time since chicken breasts may cook faster than whole pieces.

  2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
    You can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.

  3. How can I make the chicken less greasy?
    Make sure to drain the chicken well on paper towels after frying and avoid overcrowding the skillet while frying. This helps it cook more evenly and reduces excess oil.