The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. This recipe showcases juicy chicken pieces marinated in tangy buttermilk and coated in a flavorful, crispy crust. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply when you’re craving something delicious, this fried chicken is sure to impress. The balance of spices and the crunch of the coating make it stand out as one of the best fried chicken recipes you’ll ever try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture – Achieve a golden-brown crust that is both crunchy and satisfying.
• Flavorful Marinade – The buttermilk marinade infuses the chicken with rich taste, making each bite irresistible.
• Versatile Dish – Serve it with sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a complete meal or enjoy it on its own.
• Easy to Prepare – With simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for parties and family gatherings, this dish will surely be a hit with everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wire rack
• Candy thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pot – Essential for achieving the right frying temperature for crispy chicken.
• Mixing bowls – Necessary for marinating the chicken and mixing the dry ingredients.
• Whisk – Helps to combine ingredients evenly for better flavor distribution.
• Wire rack – Allows excess oil to drain off the chicken while keeping it crispy.

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: Chill for Flavor

Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 1 hour. For optimal flavor, let it marinate overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

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 is crucial for getting that crispy exterior without burning while ensuring thorough cooking.

Step 5: Dredge Chicken Pieces

Take each piece of chicken out of the marinade. Dredge it in the flour mixture until well coated.

Step 6: Frying Time!

Carefully place chicken pieces into hot oil. Fry 4 or 5 pieces at a time without overcrowding. Turn as needed until they are golden brown and cooked through—approximately 15 minutes per piece. Check that internal temperature reaches 170°F.

Step 7: Drain Excess Oil

Once fried, let the chicken drain on a wire rack to maintain its crispiness.

Enjoy your delicious homemade The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken!

How to Serve The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Serving The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken is all about complementing its crispy texture and rich flavors. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Salads

• Coleslaw: A crunchy side that adds a refreshing contrast to the fried chicken.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing and croutons enhances the meal’s richness.
• Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings a comforting touch, balancing the crispy chicken.

Accompanied by Sauces

• Honey Mustard Sauce: Sweet and tangy, this sauce pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
• BBQ Sauce: A smoky flavor that complements the spices in the fried chicken.
• Spicy Ranch Dressing: Adds a zesty kick that brings out the flavors of the chicken.

With Classic Sides

• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory notes of buttermilk chicken perfectly.
• Biscuit or Cornbread: Soft, buttery biscuits or sweet cornbread are perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.

How to Perfect The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Achieving perfection with The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your fried chicken turns out great every time.

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Oil: Fresh vegetable oil ensures a clean taste and helps achieve that crispy exterior.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 340°F is crucial for crispy results without burnt edges.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken.
• Let It Drain on a Rack: Placing fried chicken on a wire rack prevents it from steaming and helps maintain crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs well with fried chicken.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds add a fresh crunch and color to your plate.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy macaroni complements the salty flavors of fried chicken beautifully.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes: Their tartness and crunch offer a delightful contrast to the juicy chicken.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture, making them an excellent pairing.
6. Pickles or Pickled Vegetables: A tangy bite from pickles cuts through the richness of fried chicken, enhancing each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken, avoid these common mistakes that can impact your results.

• Skipping the Marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can lead to dry meat. Aim for at least one hour, but overnight is best for flavor and tenderness.
• Overcrowding the Fryer: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy chicken. Fry 4 to 5 pieces at a time for optimal cooking.
• Ignoring Oil Temperature: Failing to monitor the oil temperature may cause undercooked or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer and maintain it around 340°F for perfect frying.
• Inadequate Coating: Skipping proper dredging in flour can result in unevenly coated chicken. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for a crispy texture.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Cooking chicken too fast can lead to an uncooked interior. Allow about 15 minutes per piece, checking that the internal temperature reaches 170°F.

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

• Place cooled fried chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add chicken and cook until heated, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make buttermilk at home?

You can easily make buttermilk by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before using it in your recipe.

Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken; just adjust the cooking time accordingly as it may cook faster than bone-in pieces.

What can I serve with The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread, providing a delicious meal experience.

How do I ensure my chicken is crispy?

Make sure to maintain the right oil temperature during frying and allow the coated chicken to rest briefly before frying. This helps achieve that desired crispiness.

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! While this recipe features chicken, you could adapt it for turkey or even plant-based options using similar techniques.

Final Thoughts

The appeal of The Best Buttermilk Fried Chicken lies in its crunchy exterior and juicy interior, making it perfect for dinner or gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile! Feel free to customize seasonings or try different dips. Give this delightful recipe a try!