Description
Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, this Country Fried Chicken recipe is a classic comfort food favorite! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a perfectly seasoned breading, then fried to crunchy perfection. It’s an irresistible dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Instructions
- Place chicken pieces in a bowl and pour over buttermilk and hot sauce. Mix well, cover, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge).
- In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Remove chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry each piece for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes, gravy, or your favorite sides.
Notes
- Marination Tip: The longer the chicken marinates in buttermilk, the juicier and more flavorful it will be.
- Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce to control the heat level.
- Oil Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to maintain steady frying temperature for best crispiness.
- Serving Suggestion: Pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, biscuits, or a side of honey mustard.
- Storage: Leftover fried chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Deep Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American