The Best Homemade Best Fried Chicken Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade fried chicken recipe is crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—just like your favorite takeout, but even better. You’ll love how simple it is to make, with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Perfectly crispy every time: The secret coating locks in moisture while giving that golden crunch you crave.
- Family-friendly favorite: Kids and adults alike will gobble it up, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Budget-friendly and easy: Skip the drive-thru and enjoy restaurant-quality chicken right at home.
Recipe
Crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, homemade fried chicken is a classic dish that never fails to impress. With a golden crust and juicy interior, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, picnics, or any occasion.
Ingredients:
3 lbs chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or wings)
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to coat evenly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken in batches for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain the fried chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
Notes:
For extra flavor, season the chicken with additional spices before soaking in buttermilk. Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to guarantee even cooking.
Equipment:
Large bowl
Skillet or Dutch oven
Tongs
Wire rack or paper towels
Time:
Prep time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4-6 servings
Nutrition
Fried chicken is a flavorful dish but can be high in calories and fat. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Protein | 22 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade fried chicken with classic side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or crisp coleslaw for a satisfying meal. To balance the richness, I’ll often add something invigorating, like a glass of iced tea or lemonade. It’s all about finding the perfect combination that makes every bite feel just right.
Classic Side Dishes
When I think of homemade fried chicken, I can’t help but picture it surrounded by a spread of classic sides that just complete the meal. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, and tangy coleslaw are my go-tos—they balance the crispy, savory chicken perfectly. Don’t forget baked beans or mac and cheese for a little extra comfort. A simple biscuit or fluffy dinner roll soaks up any leftover goodness, and a side of pickles adds a nice crunch. These dishes aren’t just fillers; they’re part of the experience, making every bite of that golden chicken even more satisfying.
Refreshing Beverages
After enjoying all those comforting sides, it’s time to think about what to sip alongside your fried chicken. I always go for something cool and invigorating to balance the richness. A tall glass of iced sweet tea, with just the right amount of lemon, does the trick for me. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll mix up a lemony, fizzy soda. For a more festive vibe, a tangy homemade lemonade or a crisp apple cider hits the spot. Don’t forget about milk—it’s classic for a reason! Whatever you choose, make sure it complements that crispy, golden bite of perfection. Cheers!
