Buttermilk Chicken Recipe

If you have ever craved tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful coating that practically melts in your mouth, you are in for a treat. This Buttermilk Chicken Recipe takes simple ingredients and turns them into a sensational dish that’s both comforting and exciting. The secret lies in marinating the chicken in tangy buttermilk infused with spices, which not only tenderizes but also adds an irresistible depth of flavor, while the seasoned flour mixture creates the perfect crunchy crust. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an impressive weekend feast, this Buttermilk Chicken Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Buttermilk Chicken Recipe just right starts with a handful of straightforward but essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from tenderizing and seasoning the chicken to creating a crunchy, golden crust that’s bursting with flavor and color.

• 8 pieces of chicken (skin on, thighs and drumsticks): These cuts stay juicy and crispy during frying, perfect for this recipe.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and balances the spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and earthiness to the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a rich, savory aroma that complements the chicken perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon dried mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess that brightens the marinade.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Introduces a gentle smoky sweetness with a beautiful reddish tint.
• ½ teaspoon dried sage: Offers a hint of earthiness to deepen the flavor.
• 2 cups buttermilk: The hero ingredient that tenderizes the chicken and adds a creamy tang.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Essential for the crispy coating that locks in moisture.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures an extra-crispy, light crust.
• 1½ teaspoons salt: Seasons the flour mixture for balanced flavor.
• 1½ teaspoons garlic powder: Reinforces that savory garlic punch in the crisp crust.
• 1½ teaspoons paprika: Adds color and a mild smoky flavor to the flour coating.
• 1½ teaspoons dried basil: Brings a delicate herbal note that brightens the taste.
• 1½ teaspoons dried thyme: Introduces a slightly floral, earthy complexity.
• 1½ teaspoons onion powder: Adds sweetness and enhances the overall umami profile.
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides a gentle kick of heat to wake up your palate.
• Vegetable oil: For deep frying, it creates the perfect golden crust without overpowering the chicken’s flavor.

How to Make Buttermilk Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your skin-on chicken pieces in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried mustard, paprika, and sage. Stir gently to coat each piece evenly, ensuring every inch is covered with those fragrant spices. Next, pour in the buttermilk. This tangy elixir not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with moisture and flavor. Give everything a good stir, then cover and refrigerate. For the best results, let the chicken soak overnight, but if you’re pressed for time, an hour will still do wonders.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating

While the chicken is marinating, whisk together your flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, paprika, basil, thyme, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish. This mixture is where your buttermilk chicken will get its famous crispy, seasoned crust. Having all these herbs and spices perfectly balanced means every bite will be packed with nuanced flavors and that irresistible crunch.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep frying pan so it reaches about 1 to 2 inches deep. Heat it to approximately 340°F. This temperature is crucial; it ensures the chicken cooks through while creating that gorgeously golden and crisp exterior without burning. Keeping a candy thermometer handy helps maintain the perfect frying temperature, especially after adding the cold chicken.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken and Fry

Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off, then dip it into your flour mixture. Toss the chicken gently but thoroughly so every surface is coated with the seasoned flour blend. Then, carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each piece for about 15 minutes, turning as needed to ensure even browning. The result? A delectably crunchy crust with juicy, tender meat inside. Confirm the chicken is cooked through by checking for an internal temperature of 170°F.

Step 5: Drain and Rest

Once fried, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain any excess oil. This step is key to keeping the crust crispy – no soggy bottoms here. The chicken will rest for a few minutes, allowing the juices to settle and the coating to set perfectly crisp.

How to Serve Buttermilk Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten up your Buttermilk Chicken Recipe by garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after frying also adds a nice crunch and heightens the flavors. Lemon wedges on the side add a zesty freshness that cuts through the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or even a crisp green salad. For something more adventurous, try roasted sweet potatoes or a tangy cucumber salad to complement the deep, savory flavors of the buttermilk fried chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests or want to jazz up family dinner, try plating your Buttermilk Chicken Recipe on a rustic wooden board with an assortment of dipping sauces like spicy honey mustard, garlic aioli, or a cool ranch dip. Adding pickled vegetables or colorful slaws on the side amps up both the flavor and the visual appeal, making the meal feel like a celebration.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover buttermilk chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, but the crispy crust may soften slightly. To keep the texture pleasing, reheat carefully.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken pieces by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the best results when reheating, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This method helps maintain the crispy exterior while warming the chicken evenly. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?

Absolutely! While thighs and drumsticks stay juicier and cook more evenly when fried, chicken breasts can work too if you’re mindful not to overcook them. Consider cutting breasts into smaller pieces to ensure thorough cooking without drying out.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

Overnight marinating definitely enhances tenderness and flavor, but if you’re short on time, even an hour will improve the texture and infuse the chicken with delicious seasoning.

What’s the best oil for frying this chicken?

Vegetable oil is perfect due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point. You can also use peanut or canola oil; just make sure the oil is suitable for high-temperature frying.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 170°F. The juices should run clear, and the meat should feel firm but juicy.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

You can, although frying delivers the classic crispy crust that’s signature to this Buttermilk Chicken Recipe. To bake, coat the chicken as usual and bake in a preheated 425°F oven on a wire rack for about 40-45 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Final Thoughts

This Buttermilk Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to bring joy to your table with its tender, flavorful, and crispy goodness. Once you try it, you’ll realize how approachable and rewarding it is to make restaurant-quality fried chicken right at home. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy one of the most comforting dishes you’ll ever make!

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