Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Perfectly Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe delivers a golden, crunchy exterior with a tender, juicy interior. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a picnic, or a celebration, this fried chicken is guaranteed to impress. Its seasoned batter and flavorful marinade create a perfect balance of taste and texture. It’s a classic comfort food that is always a crowd-pleaser.

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)
Buttermilk
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Cayenne pepper
All-purpose flour
Cornstarch
Baking powder
Vegetable oil (for frying)

directions

In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and coat them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for more flavor).
In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and additional paprika for seasoning.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a thick, even coating.
Carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil, one piece at a time. Fry in batches if necessary, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8-10 pieces of chicken.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (or overnight)
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes (or longer with marinating)

Variations

For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the marinade.
Use a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs and flour for an even crunchier texture.
Swap the buttermilk for regular milk and a splash of vinegar for a similar effect.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix for a herby twist.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until crispy and heated through. You can also reheat in a hot skillet to restore its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before marinating and frying to ensure even cooking.

Can I make the batter without cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps create a crispier coating, but you can omit it in a pinch, though the texture may differ.

Can I fry the chicken in advance?

It’s best to fry the chicken just before serving for the crispiest texture, but you can fry it a few hours ahead and reheat it in the oven.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Vegetable oil is ideal, but you can also use peanut oil or canola oil for frying.

Why is my fried chicken soggy?

Make sure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before frying and drain the chicken on a wire rack, not paper towels, to avoid trapping steam.

Conclusion

This Perfectly Crispy Fried Chicken is a timeless favorite, perfect for any occasion. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior make it a winner every time. With easy-to-follow steps and room for customization, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.