The Best Fried Chicken
The ultimate comfort food, The Best Fried Chicken is crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings. Discover the secret to achieving that perfect crunch and make this dish tonight!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Chicken thighs and legs
- 3 cups Buttermilk
- Salt and pepper
- 2 cups Self-rising flour
- 2 tablespoons Seasoning salt
- 2 tablespoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Louisiana chicken seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Onion powder
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 2 pounds chicken thighs and legs, 3 cups buttermilk, and salt and pepper. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the buttermilk. Marinate it for at least one hour, or if you have time, overnight in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful chicken.
- Next, in another large bowl, combine the 2 cups self-rising flour, 2 tablespoons seasoning salt, 2 tablespoons salt, 1 teaspoon Louisiana chicken seasoning, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon onion powder. Whisk them together to distribute the spices evenly.
- In a heavy-bottomed skillet, pour in about 1 inch of oil for frying. Heat it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit over medium heat. It’s important that the oil is hot enough to fry but not smoking.
- Once the oil is ready, take the marinated chicken out of the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, coating it completely. This layer will create that coveted crispy crust.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for about 4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain the excess oil. This helps maintain that crispy texture.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every piece is juicy and delicious.
- Serve your homemade The Best Fried Chicken with your favorite dipping sauces or sides and enjoy the satisfied smiles from your family. You’ve earned it!
Notes
When storing leftover fried chicken, make sure to place it in an airtight container, and it will be good for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken, wrapping it tightly to prevent freezer burn. This dish pairs well with classic sides like coleslaw and mashed potatoes, creating a complete meal. You can add cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour mix for extra heat if you prefer a spicier flavor!