southern style buttermilk fried chicken
If you’re craving something truly comforting and appetizing, you’ve come to the right place! I’m sharing my go-to recipe for Southern Style buttermilk Fried Chicken—the kind that makes your mouth water and your heart sing. With a crispy crust, juicy meat, and that classic homemade flavor, this dish will have everyone begging for seconds! Who’s ready to fry up some magic?
Simple ingredients for Delicious Southern Style Buttermilk Fried Chicken
To recreate that classic Southern Style Buttermilk Fried Chicken you crave, gather these straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in achieving that golden,crunchy exterior and juicy interior that makes this dish so comforting and delicious.
- 2 cups buttermilk: This rich marinade infuses the chicken with moisture and tenderness while adding a mild tang that balances the spices.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: It adds depth and a slight zing to the marinade,enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, salt enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: This provides a subtle heat that complements the other spices nicely.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Add a kick with this spice! Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces: Using a whole chicken ensures a variety of juicy pieces with different textures.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the foundation for the crispy coating.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: It helps create a lighter texture in the coating, making it extra crunchy.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: This adds a savory aroma and flavor that pairs perfectly with fried chicken.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, it boosts the savory notes in the dish.
- 5 cups vegetable oil for frying: A high smoke point oil,like vegetable or canola oil,is ideal for frying to achieve that perfect golden brown.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get started on the step-by-step process to make this mouthwatering fried chicken experience truly memorable!
step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Fried Chicken
Creating the perfect Buttermilk Fried Chicken involves a few simple steps. Don’t worry if it seems time-consuming; the results are well worth the effort! Let’s dive into the process:
- Mix the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until smooth. This flavorful marinade is crucial for tenderizing the chicken.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or a bowl. pour the buttermilk mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.squeeze out any excess air if using a bag, seal it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Dry Coating: While the chicken marinates, combine the flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and onion powder in another resealable bag. Shake it to mix thoroughly.
- Coat the Chicken: After marinating, take one piece of chicken at a time, letting the excess marinade drip off. Then, place it in the flour mixture. Seal the bag and shake well to coat. For an extra crispy crust, repeat this process by dipping the chicken back into the buttermilk and shaking it in the flour mixture again.
- Heat the oil: In a large frying pan, heat about 5 cups of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can check the temperature with a kitchen thermometer or drop a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches if necesary.Fry them for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and savor every bite of this crispy, flavorful delight.
You’ve successfully made your Southern Style Buttermilk fried Chicken! Enjoy it with your favourite dipping sauce — I love a homemade ranch or classic honey mustard for dipping. Happy frying!
Serving and Storage Tips for Southern Style Buttermilk Fried Chicken
After creating that delicious Southern Style Buttermilk Fried Chicken, you’ll want to know how best to serve and store it. This dish is both satisfying and versatile,making it perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Serving suggestions:
- Pair it Up: This fried chicken shines when served with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or spicy jalapeño cornbread. Consider a drizzle of honey or a side of hot sauce for those who like extra flavor.
- Serving Temperature: Fried chicken is best enjoyed hot, straight from the fryer, but it can also be left at room temperature for a short while during a gathering.
- Presentation: For a delightful touch,arrange your chicken on a large platter and garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerating Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (though that may be unlikely!), allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored,it will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freezing Options: For a longer shelf life, you can freeze the fried chicken. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for that crunchy texture.
- Reheating Tips: For the best results,reheat your chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes,until warmed through and crispy again. you can also use an air fryer for a quicker method,maintaining that fantastic crunch.
Recipe notes and Troubleshooting for Perfect Fried Chicken
Every great recipe comes with a few helpful notes to ensure your Southern style Buttermilk Fried Chicken turns out perfectly each time. Here are some tips and tricks to consider as you cook:
- Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture, the more tender and flavorful it becomes. Aim for at least 2 hours, but if you can, marinate overnight for the best results.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature is key to achieving that golden-brown color and crispy texture. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will brown quickly but remain raw inside. If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to keep it steady at 350°F (175°C).
- avoid Overcrowding: When frying, avoid adding too many pieces of chicken at once. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature, leading to less crispy chicken. Fry in batches, if necessary, to keep the oil temperature consistent.
- Crispy Coating: For a thicker, crunchier coating, you can double-dip the chicken. After the initial coating, dip it back into the buttermilk and then coat again in the flour mixture.
- Ensure It’s Cooked: Always check for doneness with an instant-read thermometer. It should read at least 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy.
By following these serving,storage,and troubleshooting tips,you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious Southern classic! Enjoy your cooking adventure.