Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Super Crispy Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Its crunchy exterior and juicy interior make it perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even game day parties. This recipe stands out thanks to the marination in buttermilk, which enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a crispy delight that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: The seasoned flour coating creates a delicious crunch that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Tender Inside: Marinating in buttermilk ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender throughout.
• Quick Preparation: With only 40 minutes of prep time, you can easily whip this dish up for dinner.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with fries, salad, or your favorite dipping sauces for a complete meal.
• Family Favorite: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its amazing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential kitchen tools needed to make Super Crispy Fried Chicken efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Cooking thermometer
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for frying; it retains heat well and minimizes oil splatter.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating chicken and mixing dry ingredients without mess.
• Cooking thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly to a safe temperature.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 pound chicken, (cut into 8 pieces with the backbone discarded)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons coarse ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce, optional

For the Coating

• 2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For Frying

• Canola oil, for frying

How to Make Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, kosher salt, coarse ground black pepper, and optional hot sauce.
2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour and paprika.
2. Set up a baking sheet next to your coating station for easy transfer.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture.
2. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture until fully coated.
3. Place on the baking sheet and allow them to rest for at least 30 minutes; this helps form a paste-like coating.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat canola oil in a large dutch oven until it reaches 365 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Fry in batches of four pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook each batch for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and an internal temperature of 165 degrees is reached.

Enjoy your homemade Super Crispy Fried Chicken as part of an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Super Crispy Fried Chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a family meal, this chicken pairs well with numerous sides and garnishes.

Classic Comfort

• French Fries: Crispy golden fries are the perfect match for fried chicken. They complement the savory flavor and provide a satisfying crunch.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw balances the richness of the fried chicken. The crunch and tanginess add a delightful contrast.
• Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread brings warmth to your meal. It’s soft on the inside and pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.

Flavorful Additions

• Pickles: Dill pickles add a zesty punch. Their acidity cuts through the richness of the chicken, enhancing each bite.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, serving your chicken with hot sauce elevates the flavor profile and adds extra heat.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up every bite. The citrus notes enhance the overall taste experience.

How to Perfect Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Achieving the ultimate crispiness for your fried chicken requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk for several hours ensures it stays moist while allowing flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Use Cold Oil: Start frying in cold oil; this helps create a crispy crust without overcooking the meat inside.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy chicken. Fry in small batches for even cooking.
• Let It Rest: After frying, let your chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain its crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Super Crispy Fried Chicken enhances your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance well with crispy chicken.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds add color and a crunchy texture that complements fried chicken nicely.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: This classic dish offers rich, cheesy goodness that kids and adults love alike.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add depth of flavor, making them an excellent sidekick for fried chicken.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide a healthy option while adding visual appeal to your plate.
6. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with hot, crispy fried chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your cooking experience smoother and your Super Crispy Fried Chicken even more delicious.

• Using the wrong chicken parts: Choosing bone-in, skin-on pieces is essential for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using boneless cuts as they may not fry as well.
• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating in buttermilk adds flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least four hours in the refrigerator.
• Not letting the chicken rest before frying: Allowing the coated chicken to sit helps the flour adhere better, ensuring a crispier crust. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes after coating.
• Crowding the frying pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Cook in batches to maintain a consistent heat.
• Ignoring temperature checks: Always ensure your oil is heated to 365 degrees Fahrenheit before frying. An accurate thermometer is key to crispy results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing Super Crispy Fried Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Super Crispy Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate; cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals until warm. This method may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Add chicken pieces and warm for about 5-7 minutes on each side, ensuring they are heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Super Crispy Fried Chicken.

How do I make my Super Crispy Fried Chicken extra crunchy?

To achieve extra crunchiness, double coat your chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk after the first flour coating, then re-coat with flour before frying.

Can I use other spices in my Super Crispy Fried Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cayenne pepper, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning to customize your flavor profile.

What should I serve with Super Crispy Fried Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for balance.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

While you can use boneless chicken, keep in mind that bone-in pieces provide better flavor and moisture during frying.

Final Thoughts

Super Crispy Fried Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or serve it alongside various sides. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try!