Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe
This Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe combines juicy, tender chicken marinated in a flavorful buttermilk and hot sauce mixture, coated in a spiced flour blend, and fried to golden crispy perfection. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and a kick of cayenne, this classic Southern-inspired fried chicken delivers a satisfying crunch and bold flavor with every bite.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Halal
Marinade
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
Flour Coating
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Other
- 2 pounds chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, etc.)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Prepare the Marinade: Pour 2 cups of buttermilk into a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of hot sauce, then sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Submerge the 2 pounds of chicken pieces fully into the buttermilk marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight to allow flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
- Mix the Flour Coating: In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, and chili powder. Whisk until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade, letting excess drip off. One by one, dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to create a thick, even coating. Set coated pieces aside on a wire rack or plate.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil about 3 inches deep into a large deep skillet or Dutch oven. Heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), suitable for frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully lower the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even, golden-brown crispiness all around.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure safe and juicy results.
- Drain Excess Oil and Rest: Once cooked and crispy, transfer the chicken onto a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let the fried chicken rest a few minutes before serving to retain juiciness and perfect texture.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but 2 hours is sufficient.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
- Adjust cayenne pepper based on desired spice level.
- Vegetable oil is recommended for frying due to its high smoke point.
- Allow chicken to rest after frying to ensure juices redistribute properly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 6 oz chicken)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: fried chicken, buttermilk fried chicken, spicy fried chicken, crispy chicken recipe, Southern chicken, deep fried chicken, dinner recipe