There’s just something special about the aroma of crispy fried chicken wafting through a cozy kitchen. Savor the comforting flavors of a classic with this Old Fashioned Crispy Fried Chicken recipe that promises a golden, crunchy coating encasing juicy, tender meat. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply craving that homestyle goodness, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your rotation.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (or pre-cut chicken pieces)
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Oil for frying (such as vegetable or peanut oil)
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring they are fully covered. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The buttermilk will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
2. **Prepare the Coating:** In a shallow dish, mix the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This flavorful blend will be the secret to achieving that deliciously crunchy exterior on your fried chicken.
3. **Dredge the Chicken:** Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. One piece at a time, coat the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even and thick coating. Place the coated pieces on a wire rack while you repeat the process with the remaining chicken.
4. **Heat the Oil:** In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, pour enough oil to reach a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To test if the oil is ready for frying, drop a small piece of the coated flour into the oil; if it sizzles and immediately rises to the surface, it’s hot enough.
5. **Fry the Chicken:** Carefully place a few pieces of coated chicken into the hot oil, skin side down. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking and maintain the oil’s temperature. Fry the chicken in batches, if necessary, for about 6-8 minutes per side or until the coating turns a deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. **Drain and Serve:** Once fried to perfection, use tongs to transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices. The crispy exterior and tender meat inside will be a delightful contrast that’s sure to satisfy.
7. **Garnish and Enjoy:** Serve your Old Fashioned Crispy Fried Chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread, for a complete homestyle meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of flaky salt for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Recreate the magic of home-cooked comfort with this timeless recipe for Old Fashioned Crispy Fried Chicken. Whether it’s for a Sunday dinner or a casual weeknight treat, the crispy, golden goodness of this dish is guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Gather your loved ones and enjoy the simple pleasure of a classic fried chicken meal.
