Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfectly Crispy Fried Chicken is a classic dish that never goes out of style. With a golden, crispy coating and juicy, tender meat, this fried chicken is the ideal comfort food. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a picnic, or a celebration, this recipe delivers a flavorful and crunchy bite every time. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.

ingredients

Perfectly Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe for All Occasions

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or wings)
Buttermilk
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Cayenne pepper
Baking powder
Vegetable oil (for frying)

directions

Begin by placing the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and baking powder.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be enough to submerge the chicken pieces.
Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
Fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes (excluding marination)
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes per batch
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including marination)

Variations

For extra crispy chicken, double dip by coating the chicken in buttermilk and flour mixture twice.
Add a splash of hot sauce or pickle juice to the buttermilk for added flavor.
Use seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crunchier coating.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped fresh chili peppers to the flour mixture.

storage/reheating

Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a wire rack in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in an air fryer for the crispiest result.

FAQs

Can I use skinless chicken?
While skinless chicken can be used, skin-on chicken tends to yield better results with a crispier crust.

Can I bake this chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 35-45 minutes. However, frying creates a much crispier texture.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Vegetable oil is recommended, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil for frying.

Can I freeze the fried chicken?
Yes, you can freeze cooked fried chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven to restore the crispiness.

Why is my fried chicken not crispy?
Ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) and avoid overcrowding the pan. Also, double coating the chicken can help achieve a crispier texture.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, this recipe scales well for larger batches.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, the flavors are mild, and the crispy coating is fun for kids to enjoy.

What is the best way to check if the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Perfectly Crispy Fried Chicken is a must-try recipe that guarantees crispy, golden-brown perfection every time. With the right blend of spices and a crispy coating, it’s a dish that will surely become a favorite at every meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply satisfying your fried food cravings, this recipe will never disappoint.