What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This fried chicken recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or fun weekend cooking projects. It’s simple, satisfying, and brings a crispy, golden bite every time.
- The flavors are bold but not overpowering, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- It uses easy-to-find ingredients, so you can whip it up without a fuss.
- Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, it’s comfort food at its best!
Recipe
Crispy, golden-brown fried chicken is a classic comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe delivers perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken with a crunchy coating that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Notes:
- For extra crispiness, double-dredge the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and flour mixture a second time.
- Maintain oil temperature for even frying and prevent greasy chicken.
Equipment:
- Deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Thermometer
- Wire rack or paper towels
Time:
Prep time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4-6 servings
Nutrition
Fried chicken is a popular dish known for its crispy exterior and juicy meat. Below is the nutritional breakdown based on a typical serving size.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade fried chicken with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes and coleslaw—they’re comforting and just feel right. If I’m craving something lighter, a fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy dressing balances the richness perfectly. You can’t go wrong with either choice, so pick what suits your mood!
Classic Side Dishes
When I’m making homemade fried chicken, I always think about what sides will bring the meal together. Mashed potatoes are a must—creamy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up any extra gravy. I also love cornbread; it’s slightly sweet and pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken. Don’t forget mac and cheese—it’s comforting and adds a cheesy twist. Green beans, sautéed with garlic, give a fresh, savory balance. And, of course, coleslaw is essential—it’s crunchy, tangy, and cuts through the richness. These classic sides create a meal that feels hearty, satisfying, and just like home.
Fresh Salad Options
Though fried chicken is rich and indulgent, a fresh salad can lighten things up while still keeping the meal satisfying. I love pairing it with a crisp Caesar salad—romaine, croutons, and a tangy dressing cut through the chicken’s richness perfectly. A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette is another go-to. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss together a kale salad with shredded carrots, dried cranberries, and a lemony dressing. And don’t forget coleslaw—its creamy crunch is a classic match for fried chicken. Each bite feels balanced, hearty, and invigorating.
