How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken at Home
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a plate of crispy fried chicken. Its golden-brown exterior and juicy, tender meat make it a favorite for family dinners, picnics, and gatherings. The best part? You can easily make this crispy delight right in your own kitchen! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be on your way to impressing family and friends with your homemade fried chicken. Let’s dive into the details of how to make crispy fried chicken at home.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This recipe is a keeper because it combines simplicity and flavor in a way that is hard to resist. The use of buttermilk in the marinade tenderizes the chicken while adding depth to the flavor. The seasoned flour coating creates that sought-after crunch, ensuring each bite is as satisfying as the last. Whether you’re craving a classic Southern dish or just looking for a delicious meal, this recipe will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Gather These Ingredients
To make crispy fried chicken at home, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cut-up chicken (includes split breasts, legs, thighs, wings, and optional neck, gizzards, and liver)
- 3 whole eggs
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable or canola oil (approximately 1 to 1.5 cups, depending on the size of your skillet)
Equipment & Tools
Before you get started, gather the necessary tools:
- Large skillet or deep fryer: A heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even cooking.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken safely.
- Large bowl: For marinating the chicken.
- Shallow dish: To hold the seasoned flour for dredging.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken at Home Made Stepwise
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by placing the cut-up chicken pieces in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well combined. Pour the buttermilk mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This step not only flavors the chicken but also helps to tenderize the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. This seasoned flour will give your chicken that crispy, flavorful crust we all love.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In your large skillet or deep fryer, add enough vegetable or canola oil to reach a depth of about 1 to 1.5 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and browns in about 60 seconds, the oil is ready.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Allow any excess buttermilk mixture to drip off before dredging each piece in the seasoned flour. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly, pressing the flour onto the surface to ensure it sticks well.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin-side down. Do not overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches if necessary. Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the crust is golden brown. Use tongs to turn the chicken occasionally for even cooking.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
Spring to Winter: Ideas
This crispy fried chicken is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Here are some ideas to make the most of it through the seasons:
- Spring: Serve with fresh salad greens and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
- Summer: Pair with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic picnic spread.
- Fall: Create a comforting chicken sandwich with apple slaw and spicy mayo.
- Winter: Enjoy alongside mashed potatoes and gravy for a cozy meal.
Learn from These Mistakes
To ensure your fried chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these common mistakes in mind:
- Not marinating long enough: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours ensures the meat is tender and flavorful.
- Using cold oil: Always heat the oil to the right temperature before frying; cold oil can lead to greasy chicken.
- Overcrowding the skillet: Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and achieve that crispy texture.
- Skipping the resting period: Allowing the chicken to rest after frying helps keep it juicy.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
If you have leftover fried chicken or want to prepare it ahead of time, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To restore some of the crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Reader Questions
Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead of a whole cut-up chicken?
Absolutely! You can use any part of the chicken you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of chicken pieces you’re using.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
How can I make my fried chicken spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the buttermilk marinade or the seasoned flour mixture for an extra kick!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Reader Favorites
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to try, check out these reader favorites:
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Creamy Pasta with Broccoli
- 15-Minute Vegan Chili
- Easy Vanilla Cupcakes
The Last Word
Making crispy fried chicken at home is not just a cooking task; it’s an experience filled with anticipation and satisfaction. With this step-by-step guide, you can confidently create a dish that is sure to delight anyone who takes a bite. Follow the instructions, embrace the process, and soon you will be savoring the fruits of your labor. Remember, the secret to perfect fried chicken lies in the marinade, the seasoning, and the love you put into it. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by placing the cut-up chicken pieces in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until well combined. Pour the buttermilk mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
- In your large skillet or deep fryer, add enough vegetable or canola oil to reach a depth of about 1 to 1.5 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Allow any excess buttermilk mixture to drip off before dredging each piece in the seasoned flour.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin-side down. Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the crust is golden brown.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet; fry in batches for the best results.
