How to Make Perfect Crispy Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a beloved dish known for its crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Making perfect crispy fried chicken at home can be achieved with the right techniques and a little patience. Here are some tips and steps to ensure your fried chicken is deliciously crispy every time.

Ingredients
2 pounds of chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or wings)
2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor.
Prepare the Coating:

In a shallow dish, mix the flour with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This seasoned flour will give the chicken its flavorful crust.
Coat the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating adheres well. For extra crispy chicken, dip the floured chicken back into the buttermilk and then again into the flour mixture.
Heat the Oil:

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature for frying.
Fry the Chicken:

Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin-side down, in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Drain and Serve:

Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. This will help keep the chicken crispy. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at a consistent temperature is key to achieving a crispy texture. Too low, and the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy; too high, and the exterior will burn before the inside is cooked.

Use a Wire Rack: After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents steam from building up and keeps the coating crispy.

Experiment with Spices: Customize the flour mixture with your favorite spices to add unique flavors to your fried chicken.

With these tips and techniques, you can enjoy perfectly crispy fried chicken that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your homemade fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a complete meal.