Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (optional)
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including marinating time)
Ingredients:
- 4-6 chicken pieces (such as drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and enhance its flavor, but it can be skipped if you’re short on time.
- In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well to create the seasoned flour mixture.
- Preheat vegetable oil in a large, deep pot or skillet to approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
- Coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated on all sides. Press the flour mixture into the chicken to create a thick, even coating.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the preheated oil, a few pieces at a time, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Fry the chicken in batches, if necessary.
- Fry the chicken for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces.
- Serve the hot and crispy fried chicken immediately, as it is best enjoyed fresh. It can be served as a main course or as part of a picnic or potluck spread.
This recipe yields deliciously crispy and flavorful fried chicken with tender meat. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences by adding additional spices or herbs to the flour mixture. Enjoy the authentic taste of homemade fried chicken, a true American classic!