Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish brings a delightful kick that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving something special for a weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become your new favorite fried chicken dish. The blend of spices and the buttermilk marinade ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The double coating method ensures each piece of chicken comes out incredibly crispy.
• Juicy Flavor: Marinating in buttermilk keeps the chicken moist and enhances its flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even picnics.
• Easy to Follow: Simple steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the level of heat to suit your taste by varying the amount of hot sauce.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve that perfect fried chicken, having the right tools is essential. With these kitchen staples, you’ll be well-equipped to create delicious Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Deep Dutch oven pot
• Frying/candy thermometer
• Large resealable bags
• Baking sheet
• Cooling rack

Why These Tools Matter

• Deep Dutch oven pot: Provides even heat distribution for frying, ensuring properly cooked chicken.
• Frying/candy thermometer: Helps maintain the ideal frying temperature for perfectly crispy chicken.
• Large resealable bags: Great for marinating chicken and coating it in flour without mess.
• Cooling rack: Allows excess oil to drain from fried chicken while keeping it crispy.

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 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons celery salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For Coating

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 of the seasoning blend (above)

For Chicken Preparation

• 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 any air. Rub the marinade into the chicken until fully submerged. Refrigerate for 6-12 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings

In a small bowl, mix together all spices until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from refrigerate and shake off excess marinade. Place on a baking sheet and sprinkle half of the seasoning blend on both sides.

Step 4: Prepare Flour Coating

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and remaining seasoning blend.

Step 5: Dredge in Flour Mixture

Pour the flour mixture into a resealable bag or paper bag. Add chicken pieces to coat thoroughly. Remove from bag and place back onto baking sheet.

Step 6: Create Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat eggs until pale. Add buttermilk and hot sauce; mix well along with garlic powder.

Step 7: Dip & Coat Again

Dip each piece of chicken into egg mixture, shaking off excess before returning to flour bag. Seal bag again and shake until well coated. Place on plate or baking sheet.

Step 8: Heat Oil

Pour oil into deep Dutch oven pot. Attach thermometer to ensure oil reaches 350°F. If no thermometer is available, test with a piece of flour; if it fries gently, oil is ready.

Step 9: Fry Chicken

Line a large baking sheet with paper towels and set a cooling rack on top. Fry chicken in batches—dark meat together and white meat together—cooking for about 13-16 minutes (16-20 minutes for dark meat). Ensure internal temperature reaches at least 160°F; if not fully cooked during frying, bake at 350°F until done.

Step 10: Drain & Serve

Once cooked, transfer to cooling rack to drain excess oil. Heat oil back to 350°F between batches. Let sit for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Serving Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken can elevate any meal, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to complement this crispy delight.

With Fresh Coleslaw

• A crunchy and tangy coleslaw balances the spiciness of the chicken, adding a refreshing contrast that enhances each bite.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serving the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice creates a satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the flavors, making every mouthful delightful.

As a Sandwich

• Turn your fried chicken into a hearty sandwich with soft buns, lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite sauce. It’s an easy and tasty option for lunch or dinner.

With Pickles

• Adding dill pickles on the side gives a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, offering a perfect flavor combination.

Alongside Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with the spicy flavors of the chicken. A drizzle of gravy on top makes it even better!

With Cornbread

• Sweet cornbread is a classic Southern side that complements spicy dishes wonderfully. It adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat.

How to Perfect Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Perfecting your Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips for achieving crispy, flavorful results.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and ensures tenderness throughout.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices deliver more intense flavors; consider grinding spices just before use for maximum potency.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keeping oil consistently at 350°F ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Do not overcrowd: Fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature too much, which can result in greasy chicken.
• Let it rest: Allowing the fried chicken to rest on a cooling rack helps maintain crispiness by preventing steam buildup.
• Season during breading: Seasoning both the marinade and flour mixture ensures that every layer is flavorful, creating depth in taste.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: A rich and cheesy side that adds comfort to your meal; baked versions often have a crispy topping.
2. Southern Style Green Beans: Cooked with garlic or turkey turkey bacon (or turkey alternatives), these tender green beans bring freshness and color to your plate.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer an excellent contrast with their sweetness against the spicy chicken.
4. Corn Pudding: This creamy side dish is both sweet and savory, providing a delightful texture alongside fried chicken.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes: These tangy slices add crunch and flavor; serve them with remoulade for an extra zing!
6. Potato Salad: A classic cold dish that combines creamy textures with herbs; it’s great for balancing out hot and spicy flavors.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet, smoky baked beans are hearty and pair well with fried chicken; they make for an excellent picnic-style side.
8. Colossal Garden Salad: Fresh greens topped with assorted vegetables offer a light complement to rich fried chicken dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marination: Failing to marinate the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to marinate for the full recommended time for maximum flavor infusion.
• Using the Wrong Oil Temperature: Cooking at too low or too high a temperature can result in greasy or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at 350°F for optimal frying.
• Not Coating Evenly: An uneven coating can cause some pieces to cook differently, affecting texture and flavor. Shake your chicken well in the flour mixture for an even layer.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry in batches to maintain consistent heat.
• Neglecting Rest Time: Cutting into the chicken right after frying can let all the juices escape. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before serving for juicy results.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen chicken can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Fry each piece for about 5 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe special?

This recipe combines tender buttermilk-marinated chicken with a spicy seasoning blend, resulting in crispy, flavorful fried chicken that’s hard to resist.

Can I customize the spice level of my Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your preference for spiciness, making it as mild or fiery as you like.

How do I know when my Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is done cooking?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the meat; it should be fully cooked without any pink showing.

Can I use boneless chicken parts instead of whole pieces?

Yes! Boneless cuts will cook faster and still take on great flavor from the marinade; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What sides pair well with Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Classic sides include coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!

Conclusion

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is not only crispy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether served at dinner or during gatherings, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with different spices or sides according to your taste preferences.

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