The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with a crispy, flavorful coating. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you’re craving comfort food. The unique buttermilk marinade not only adds moisture but also infuses the chicken with rich flavors, ensuring each bite is unforgettable. Whether served with sides or on its own, this fried chicken will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The double-dipping technique creates a satisfyingly crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside.
• Flavorful Marinade: The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken and adds depth of flavor, making every bite delicious.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with various sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, whether hot or cold.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes creating The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items to consider before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pot
• Whisk
• Large bowl
• Shallow dish
• Candy thermometer (optional)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pot: Essential for frying the chicken evenly and achieving that perfect crispy texture without overcrowding.
• Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off after frying while keeping your fried chicken crispy instead of soggy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 8 pieces of bone in, skin on chicken (thighs and legs preferred)
• 2 cups buttermilk

For the Coating

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1½ teaspoon paprika
• 1½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1½ teaspoon salt
• 1½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried mustard
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For Frying

• 4 cups vegetable oil (enough for frying)

How to Make The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, dried mustard, and paprika. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken and stir to combine. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated with the buttermilk mixture.

Step 2: Refrigerate

Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 1 hour; however, for best results, let it marinate overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, paprika, dried basil, dried thyme, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

Step 4: Heat Oil

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to around 340°F. The goal is to achieve a crispy golden-brown exterior without burning while ensuring the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Dredge Chicken

Take each piece of chicken out of the marinade and dredge it in the flour mixture. Ensure it’s well coated.

Step 6: Fry Chicken

Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying 4 or 5 pieces at a time without overcrowding. Turn as needed and fry until golden brown and cooked through—approximately 15 minutes per piece. The internal temperature should reach 170°F. Using a candy thermometer helps maintain oil temperature around 340°F.

Step 7: Drain

Once fried, let the chicken drain on a wire rack to keep it crispy.

Enjoy your delicious homemade The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken!

How to Serve The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Serving The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Serve with Classic Sides

• Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and a tangy flavor, perfectly balancing the crispy chicken.
• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is an ideal companion to soak up any juices.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair wonderfully with fried chicken.

Create a Chicken Sandwich

• Soft Buns: Place a piece of fried chicken on a soft bun, adding lettuce and your favorite sauce for a delicious sandwich.
• Pickles: Adding pickles gives extra crunch and zest that complements the richness of the chicken.

Add Flavorful Sauces

• Hot Sauce: A drizzle of hot sauce adds a spicy kick that’s great for those who love heat.
• Honey: A touch of honey drizzled on top offers a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

How to Perfect The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

To achieve perfection in making The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken, consider these essential tips.

• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken in buttermilk, the more tender it will become.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil stays at around 340°F to fry the chicken evenly without burning.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and herbs can enhance the flavor significantly compared to older ones.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking.
• Let It Drain Properly: Allowing the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack prevents sogginess by keeping it crispy.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Pairing sides with The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken enhances your dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions.

1. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a nutty flavor that complements fried chicken.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a hearty side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni and cheese brings comfort food vibes that pair well with crunchy chicken.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add depth, making them an excellent match for fried dishes.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides freshness alongside rich fried chicken.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing brings a refreshing crunch that balances the meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Frying chicken can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes can improve your results significantly. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold preparation: Skipping the marinating step can lead to dry chicken. Always let your chicken soak in the buttermilk for at least one hour, or overnight for best results.
• Bold overcrowding: Placing too many pieces in the oil at once lowers the temperature and results in uneven cooking. Fry only 4-5 pieces at a time to ensure a crispy coating.
• Bold incorrect oil temperature: Not heating the oil properly can cause oily or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to maintain the oil around 340°F for optimal frying.
• Bold insufficient coating: Failing to dredge the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture may result in less crispy skin. Make sure each piece is well-coated before frying.
• Bold improper draining: Letting fried chicken sit on paper towels traps steam and makes it soggy. Use a wire rack for draining to keep it crispy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze fried chicken after cooling completely.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for short intervals (1 minute), checking frequently until hot. This may not keep the skin crispy.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated thoroughly and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken:

How do I make The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken crispy?

To achieve that perfect crunch, ensure your oil is at the right temperature and coat your chicken well with flour before frying.

Can I use skinless chicken?

While skinless chicken can be used, keeping the skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor during frying.

What should I serve with The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How long does it take to make The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

The total time includes prep and cooking, taking about an hour. Marinating overnight enhances flavor but isn’t mandatory.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This method works well with turkey or even lamb, allowing you to enjoy similar flavors across different meats.

Final Thoughts

The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken is not just delicious; it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or as part of a picnic spread, this recipe allows room for customization by adding your favorite spices or sides. Try it out today!