Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is an irresistible dish that brings a crispy, juicy experience to your table. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even weekend feasts, this recipe stands out with its bold flavors and delightful crunch. Once you try this version, it will surely become your go-to fried chicken recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The double coating method ensures an extra crispy exterior that pairs perfectly with the moist chicken inside.
• Flavorful Marinade: Soaking in a spicy buttermilk marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors that are truly unforgettable.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for various occasions, from casual picnics to festive celebrations, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
• Easy to Follow: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this dish without hassle, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
• Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves up to 10 people, making it perfect for larger gatherings or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, having the right tools will make all the difference.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large resealable bags
• Baking sheets
• Medium bowl
• Deep Dutch oven pot
• Frying/candy thermometer
• Cooling rack

Why These Tools Matter

• Large resealable bags: Perfect for marinating chicken and ensuring all pieces are well-coated in flavor.
• Deep Dutch oven pot: Provides even heat distribution for frying, essential for achieving that crispy finish.
• Frying/candy thermometer: Helps monitor oil temperature to prevent undercooking or burning your chicken.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 2 and 1/2 quarts cooking oil, for frying
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon white pepper
• 2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For Coating and Cooking

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 2 quarts (8 cups) full-fat buttermilk
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 3-4 tablespoons Kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons black peppercorns
• (3 and 1/2 – 4 lbs) whole chicken, cut into 10-12 pieces

How to Make Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large resealable bag, combine the buttermilk, sliced onions, sliced garlic, hot sauce, salt, and black peppercorns. Add the chicken pieces and seal the bag while pressing out excess air. Rub the marinade into the chicken to ensure all pieces are submerged. Transfer to the refrigerator to marinate for 6–12 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Mix Seasonings

In a small bowl, mix together all of the spices until well combined. This blend will add depth to your fried chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and shake off any excess marinade. Place the pieces on a baking sheet and sprinkle half of the seasoning blend on both sides of each piece.

Step 4: Prepare Flour Mixture

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and the remaining half of the seasoning blend. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Shake for Coating

Pour the flour mixture into an extra-large resealable bag or paper bag. Place all chicken pieces inside, seal tightly, and shake well until all pieces are coated evenly. Remove from bag and place back onto a baking sheet.

Step 6: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat together eggs until pale. Add buttermilk and hot sauce; mix until well combined. Stir in garlic powder.

Step 7: Dip Chicken Pieces

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first. Allow any excess to drip off before returning each piece back into the flour bag.

Step 8: Final Coat

Seal the bag again and shake until each piece is thoroughly coated with flour mixture. Remove pieces from bag and set them on a plate or baking sheet.

Step 9: Heat Oil

Pour cooking oil into a deep Dutch oven pot and attach your frying/candy thermometer to ensure it doesn’t touch bottom. Heat oil until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Step 10: Fry Chicken

Line a large baking sheet with paper towels and place a cooling rack on top. Carefully add chicken to hot oil in batches (dark meat together and white meat together). Fry dark meat for about 16-20 minutes; fry white meat for approximately 13-16 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (70°C).

Step 11: Drain Chicken

Once cooked through, remove chicken from oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place on cooling rack over paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 12: Serve

Let your Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken rest for about 10 minutes before serving it up hot! Enjoy!

How to Serve Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Serving Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and sauces that complement its crispy, juicy texture and bold flavors.

Classic Pairings

• Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful balance to the savory flavors of the fried chicken.
• Pickles: Crisp pickles bring a zesty punch that enhances the overall taste.

Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch is a classic choice that cools down the heat from the spices.
• Honey Mustard: The sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard creates an exciting twist on traditional dipping sauces.
• Barbecue Sauce: A smoky barbecue sauce adds depth and richness, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Salads

• Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers a hearty side that complements the crunchiness of the chicken.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the fried chicken.

How to Perfect Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

To achieve the ultimate Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, consider these helpful tips for maximized flavor and texture.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure you marinate your chicken long enough—6 to 12 hours will allow for a deeper infusion of flavor.
• Proper Oil Temperature: Always monitor your oil temperature; frying at 350°F ensures a crispy exterior without undercooking the inside.
• Double Coating: For extra crunchiness, follow the egg wash with an additional dip in flour before frying.
• Resting Period: Letting the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after frying allows juices to redistribute for better moisture.
• Batch Frying: Fry in smaller batches to maintain oil temperature, ensuring even cooking and crispiness throughout.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches at least 160°F for safety and perfect doneness.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken enhances its flavor profile. Here are some fantastic options you can consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that complements the spiciness of the chicken.
2. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans offer a hearty option that pairs well with fried dishes.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes add a Southern twist with their tangy flavor profile.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Rich, cheesy macaroni is always a crowd-pleaser that balances out spicy flavors beautifully.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted or fried Brussels sprouts add a healthy crunch alongside your main dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is simple yet complements fried chicken perfectly with its sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the outcome. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate leads to less flavor. Make sure to marinate for at least 6 hours for the best results.
• Overcrowding the frying pot: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain crispy texture.
• Not checking oil temperature: Failing to monitor oil heat can burn the coating. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of batter before frying.
• Inconsistent seasoning application: Unevenly coating chicken can lead to bland bites. Ensure each piece is well coated with seasoning and flour.
• Skipping the resting period: Cutting into chicken right after cooking can release juices. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes for optimal juiciness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked chicken in an airtight container.
• It lasts for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake chicken on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use microwave-safe dish; cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm, but be aware this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat; add chicken and cover. Cook on both sides until heated through, maintaining crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken so flavorful?

The combination of spices in the buttermilk marinade infuses deep flavors into the chicken, making every bite delicious.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes, you can use turkey or lamb instead of chicken, following the same marinating and frying instructions for great results.

How do I ensure perfect frying?

Monitor your oil temperature closely and fry in small batches. This helps achieve that desired crispy texture without burning.

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your personal taste preferences.

Conclusion

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is not only crispy and juicy but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and you can customize spices to suit your preference. Give this recipe a try for your next meal—it’s bound to become a favorite!

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