Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Marinate: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Add the chicken, submerge it, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- 2Make the Dredge: In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, baking powder, remaining 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper.
- 3Dredge: Working one piece at a time, let the excess marinade drip off, then press the piece into the flour mixture to coat. Rest the coated pieces on a rack for 10 minutes to allow the crust to hydrate.
- 4Heat Oil: In a heavy pot, heat 1.5–2 inches of oil to 325–350°F (165–175°C). Maintain temperature throughout frying.
- 5Fry: Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes (thighs/drums) until deep golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Adjust the heat to maintain the oil at approximately 340°F.
- 6Rest & Serve: Drain on a rack for 5 minutes to achieve maximum crispness. Sprinkle with flaky salt. Serve with biscuits, slaw, or hot honey.
👩🍳 Chef Tomi's Notes
What if I told you that the secret to the most flavorful, crunchy fried chicken isn’t just the spices—it’s the buttermilk bath that tenderizes every bite? This recipe delivers that crackling crust you dream about, with juicy meat that keeps you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds).
This Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe is a tried-and-true comfort food that never goes out of style. Marinated overnight in seasoned buttermilk, the chicken absorbs tangy richness that keeps it moist and tender when fried. The coating—made from flour, cornstarch, and a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper—fries up golden brown with a crunchy texture that stays crisp even after resting.
Each bite offers a satisfying contrast: shatteringly crisp crust giving way to juicy, flavorful chicken. Perfect for weekend dinners, backyard cookouts, or family gatherings, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees restaurant-quality fried chicken at home. Pair it with biscuits, coleslaw, mac & cheese, or even just a drizzle of hot honey for the ultimate experience.
This isn’t just fried chicken—it’s comfort food with a bit of extra love and Southern flair.
📊 Nutrition Information (per serving)
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used.