Ingredients:
- 1 chicken, 1.5 kg (3 lb), cut into 12 pieces
- For the marinade:
- 500 ml (2 cups) buttermilk
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) minced garlic
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) chopped fresh thyme
- For the crispy coating:
- 500 ml (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) paprika
- 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) cayenne pepper
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) onion powder
- 15 ml (1 tbsp) dry mustard
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 liters (8 cups) canola oil, for frying
Instructions:
Discover the ultimate Southern fried chicken recipe that delivers juicy, tender meat encased in a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this homemade fried chicken is a crowd-pleaser!
- Marinate the chicken: In a large airtight bag, combine buttermilk, minced garlic, and chopped thyme. Add chicken pieces, seal, and shake to coat evenly. Refrigerate for 3 to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the coating: In a deep plate, mix flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, and dry mustard. In another plate, beat the eggs.
- Heat the oil: In a large saucepan or deep fryer, heat canola oil to 160°C (320°F) over medium heat.
- Coat the chicken: Drain chicken pieces and discard marinade. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shake off excess, dip in beaten eggs, and coat again in flour. Shake off any excess flour.
- Fry to perfection: Fry 4-6 chicken pieces at a time for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Serve and enjoy: Drain on paper towels and serve hot. Pair with your favorite sides for a memorable meal!
This classic fried chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone craving comfort food with a Southern twist. Perfectly seasoned and fried to perfection, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
