Name: How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken at Home
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 3 whole eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt ((more to taste)); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 to 1.5 cups vegetable or canola oil (for frying)

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken. There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly fried piece of chicken, with its golden-brown crust and tender meat that makes it a staple at family gatherings, picnics, and cozy dinners alike. The best part? You can achieve that restaurant-quality crispiness right in your own kitchen! Today, we’re diving into how to make crispy fried chicken at home, using simple ingredients and a few essential techniques that will elevate your cooking game.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Crispy fried chicken is a dish that transcends generations and cultures, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, a holiday feast, or a casual weeknight dinner, it never fails to bring smiles around the table. The combination of crunchy breading and succulent meat appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it the perfect dish for any occasion. Plus, the aroma of fried chicken wafting through your home is enough to make anyone’s mouth water!

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delicious fried chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cut-up chicken: consisting of split breasts, legs, thighs, wings (tuck wing tips underneath once breaded), and optional neck, gizzards, and liver.
3 whole eggs
1 cup of buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetable or canola oil for frying (approximately 1 to 1.5 cups depending on the size of your skillet)

Essential Tools for Success

Before you get started, gather these essential tools to ensure your fried chicken turns out perfectly:

Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pot: Ideal for even heat distribution.
Cooking thermometer: To check the oil temperature for frying.
Baking sheet: To hold the chicken as it rests after frying.
Wire rack: To keep the chicken crispy while allowing excess oil to drain.
Mixing bowls: For preparing the egg wash and breading station.

Cook How to Make Crispy Fried Chicken at Home Like This

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of achieving perfectly crispy fried chicken at home.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, 2 of the whole eggs, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk until well blended. Submerge the cut-up chicken in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up your breading station by placing the flour in a shallow dish. In another bowl, beat the remaining egg with a splash of water or milk. This will create your egg wash.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dip each piece into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg wash, and finally back into the flour for a second coating. This double-dipping technique ensures a thick, crunchy crust.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In your cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, pour enough oil to reach about 1 to 1.5 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is ready.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add a few pieces of chicken to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Once the chicken is done, use tongs to transfer it to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows excess oil to drain off while keeping the chicken crispy. Season with additional salt to taste.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy fried chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. Enjoy the crunchy texture and juicy flavor that will surely impress your family and friends!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Elevate your fried chicken experience with these holiday-friendly variations:

Spicy Fried Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for an extra kick.
Herb-infused Fried Chicken: Mix dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the flour for a fragrant twist.
Garlic Parmesan Fried Chicken: Toss the fried chicken in a mixture of garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese right after frying.
Buffalo Fried Chicken: Toss the fried chicken in buffalo sauce for a tangy, fiery flavor.

Steer Clear of These

To ensure your fried chicken is a success, avoid these common pitfalls:

Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor and tenderness.
Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy chicken.
Not Using a Thermometer: Cooking at the right temperature is crucial for crispy results.
Using the Wrong Oil: Choose oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for frying.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your leftover crispy fried chicken fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy.

Ask & Learn

Can I use chicken thighs or only whole chickens for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any cut of chicken you prefer, such as thighs, wings, or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for smaller or larger pieces.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How can I make my fried chicken even crispier?

For an extra crispy coating, consider adding cornstarch to your flour mixture. A 50/50 blend of flour and cornstarch can give you that desired crunch.

Is it possible to bake this chicken instead of frying it?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the breaded chicken at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden.

One Pan, More Ideas

Expand your culinary repertoire with these delicious recipes:

See You at the Table

There you have it! A detailed guide on how to make crispy fried chicken at home that is sure to impress your family and friends. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little bit of love, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also brings everyone together. So, gather your loved ones, serve up your crispy fried chicken, and get ready for a meal that will be the highlight of your dining experience. Enjoy every crunchy, juicy bite!