The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a tender and juicy interior. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a flavorful meal. The buttermilk marinade not only adds moisture but also infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, ensuring every bite is irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The unique frying method delivers a crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the moist inside.
• Flavorful Marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk enhances its taste and tenderness, making it a crowd favorite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or on its own as a delicious snack.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is simple enough for novice cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this chicken dish suits all events.

Tools and Preparation

To create The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken, you will need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or deep fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Shallow dish for dredging
• Whisk
• Candy thermometer (optional)
• Wire rack for draining

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or deep fryer: These provide even heat distribution, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without creating a mess.
• Wire rack for draining: Using a wire rack helps keep your fried chicken crispy by allowing excess oil to drain away.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

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

For the Coating Mixture

• 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

1. 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.
2. 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. For best results, let it marinate overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating Mixture

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together 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. This temperature ensures that you achieve a crispy exterior without burning while cooking the chicken through.

Step 5: Dredge the Chicken

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

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

1. Carefully place the chicken pieces into hot oil, frying 4 or 5 pieces at a time without overcrowding.
2. Turn as needed and fry until golden brown and cooked through (approximately 15 minutes per piece).
3. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 170°F; using a candy thermometer can help maintain frying temperature.

Step 7: Drain

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

Enjoy your homemade The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken along with your favorite sides!

How to Serve The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Serving The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken can elevate your dining experience, making it both delicious and visually appealing. Here are some great ideas to complement this crispy delight.

Classic Comfort

• Coleslaw – A creamy, tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the flavors of fried chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy make for a hearty side that pairs perfectly with fried chicken.

Fresh and Light

• Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of fried chicken.
• Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn with a bit of butter is a summertime favorite that complements the savory chicken.

Dipping Delights

• Honey or Hot Sauce – Offering honey or hot sauce allows guests to customize their experience with sweet or spicy flavors.
• Biscuits – Flaky, buttery biscuits make for a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.

How to Perfect The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

To achieve the ultimate version of The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken, consider these essential tips.

• Marinate Longer – Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Maintain Oil Temperature – Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at around 340°F for perfectly crispy chicken.
• Dredge Thoroughly – Make sure each piece is well-coated in flour mixture for an extra crunchy exterior.
• Avoid Crowding – Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread adds a delicious flavor that complements fried chicken nicely.
2. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese offers a comforting texture that pairs wonderfully with crispy chicken.
3. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans provide a hearty side that balances the meal beautifully.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing your plate’s appeal.
5. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can be a fun alternative to traditional fries.
6. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad offers freshness and crunch, making it an ideal counterpoint to fried chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your experience in making The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Inadequate Marination Time: Skipping the marination or not allowing enough time can lead to bland chicken. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight.

• Skipping the Dry Coating: Failing to properly coat the chicken in the flour mixture can result in soggy skin. Ensure each piece is well-coated to achieve that crispy texture.

• Wrong Oil Temperature: Cooking chicken at too low a temperature may lead to greasy results, while too high can burn it. Maintain oil around 340°F for perfect frying.

• Overcrowding the Fryer: Adding too many pieces of chicken at once reduces oil temperature and affects crispiness. Fry in batches for even cooking and a golden-brown finish.

• Not Using a Thermometer: Relying solely on visual cues can lead to undercooked chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 170°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.

Freezing The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag; can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F. Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Use medium power and microwave for short intervals (about 30 seconds) until heated, but this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and reheat pieces until crispy, about 5-8 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered:

Can I use boneless chicken for The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Boneless chicken can be used, but bone-in pieces provide more flavor and moisture during cooking.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I use an air fryer instead?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer and cook at 360°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

What sides pair well with The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread that complement its rich flavors wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken offers an irresistible combination of crunch and flavor that makes it perfect for dinner gatherings or casual meals alike. You can customize it by adding your favorite spices or serving it with various sides. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!