Ingredients:
- 4 pounds of chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or a whole chicken, cut into pieces)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
In a large bowl, add the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. The buttermilk will help tenderize the chicken while giving it a hint of tanginess.
Step 2: Preparing the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Coating the Chicken
Take each marinated chicken piece and shake off any excess buttermilk. Dip it into the flour mixture, making sure it’s thoroughly coated. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it sit for 10 minutes. This allows the coating to adhere better.
Step 4: Frying the Chicken
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the chicken pieces. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, skin side down. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
Fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process.
Step 5: Draining and Serving
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a wire rack or paper towels to drain the excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve the classic fried chicken hot, with your favorite dipping sauces, mashed potatoes, and coleslaw for a complete meal!
Now that you have mastered the art of making classic fried chicken, it’s time to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish. Enjoy your homemade crispy chicken, and let us know how it turned out!