Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a classic comfort food that features juicy chicken marinated in buttermilk and spices, then coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a hearty family dinner!

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 4 cups buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Timing

Making Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30-40 minutes for cooking.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, or a mix) to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. Mix Coating Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Remove Chicken from Marinade: Take the chicken out of the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
2. Dredge in Flour: Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken on a wire rack or plate.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small amount of flour into it; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
2. Fry Chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 12-15 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
3. Drain Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve the crispy spicy fried chicken hot, with your favorite sides like coleslaw, biscuits, or mashed potatoes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	30g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	30g
Sugar	2g

Tips for Customization

• Adjust the Spice: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your heat preference.
• Add Herbs: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour mixture for added flavor.
• Oven Method: For a healthier alternative, bake the coated chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of spice and crunch. This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal!

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! You can use any cut of chicken, including wings, thighs, or breasts, depending on your preference.

Can I freeze the fried chicken?

Yes! After frying, let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.