Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers irresistibly crispy and flavorful fried chicken every time. The seasoning is rich and balanced, the coating is shatteringly crisp, and the meat stays juicy and tender. It’s easy to prepare with pantry staples and customizable to suit different spice preferences.

ingredients

(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 (optional, for extra heat)
Oil for frying (such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

directions

In a large bowl, marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor and tenderness.
In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off.
Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating.
Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), about 12-15 minutes depending on the size of the pieces.
Drain the fried chicken on a wire rack or paper towels.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marinating time.

Variations

Spice up the flour mixture with more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce in the buttermilk marinade.
Add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for an herby twist.
Substitute buttermilk with yogurt or milk mixed with a little lemon juice if buttermilk is unavailable.
Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.
Try a Korean-style variation by adding a light glaze of spicy gochujang sauce after frying.
For an extra crispy texture, double-dip: dredge the chicken, dip back into buttermilk, then dredge again before frying.

storage/reheating

Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat by placing it in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crust soggy.
Fried chicken can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as boneless pieces will cook faster.

What is the secret to really crispy fried chicken?

Using a mix of flour and cornstarch in the breading and maintaining the right oil temperature are key for ultimate crispiness.

Do I need to marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

Marinating in buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor, but you can also use plain milk or a yogurt-based marinade.

What oil is best for frying chicken?

Neutral oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

Why does my breading fall off during frying?

Ensure the chicken is well-coated and allow it to rest briefly after dredging before frying to help the coating adhere better.

Can I make fried chicken ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can fry it ahead and reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

How can I make the chicken spicier?

Add extra cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chili powder to the marinade and coating mixture.

Can I air fry the chicken instead?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an air fryer by spraying the chicken lightly with oil and cooking at 375°F (190°C) until crispy.

Should I cover the chicken while frying?

No, covering can trap moisture and make the crust soggy.

Conclusion

Crispy Fried Chicken is a classic that continues to delight with its savory seasoning, juicy meat, and crunchy coating. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can create this beloved comfort food at home, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal or gathering.