Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Super Crispy Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any dinner table. This recipe creates chicken that is golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even game day, this fried chicken is sure to impress. The unique blend of buttermilk and spices gives it an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture – The seasoned flour coating ensures a super crispy layer that contrasts perfectly with the juicy chicken.
• Flavorful Marinade – Marinating in buttermilk and hot sauce infuses each piece with rich flavor.
• Simple Ingredients – With common pantry staples, you can whip up this dish without a trip to the store.
• Versatile Meal – Serve it with fries, salads, or on its own; this chicken fits any meal occasion.
• Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike, making dinner time enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking Super Crispy Fried Chicken, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Whisk
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven – This heavy pot retains heat well, ensuring even cooking while frying your chicken.
• Mixing bowls – Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing dry ingredients efficiently.
• Baking sheet – Provides a surface to rest your coated chicken before frying, allowing the flour to adhere properly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 4 pounds 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, black pepper, and hot sauce (if using).
2. Mix well and refrigerate for at least four hours to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour and paprika until evenly combined.
2. Set up a baking sheet nearby for placing coated chicken pieces.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture.
2. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour until fully coated.
3. Place coated chicken pieces onto the baking sheet and let them sit for at least 30 minutes; this helps create a thicker crust when frying.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat canola oil in a large dutch oven until it reaches 365 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Carefully add batches of four chicken pieces to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry each batch for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees).

Enjoy your homemade Super Crispy Fried Chicken with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Serving Super Crispy Fried Chicken is a delightful experience that everyone can enjoy. You can elevate this classic dish with various sides and garnishes to create an unforgettable meal for your family and friends.

With French Fries

• Crispy French Fries: Serve golden, crispy french fries alongside your chicken for a classic comfort food pairing.

With Coleslaw

• Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy contrast to the savory chicken.

With Macaroni and Cheese

• Rich Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy side offers a creamy, satisfying complement to the crispy texture of the chicken.

With Corn on the Cob

• Sweet Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that balances the savory flavors of fried chicken.

With Pickles

• Dill Pickles: The tangy crunch of dill pickles provides a perfect contrast to the rich taste of Super Crispy Fried Chicken.

With Biscuits

• Flaky Biscuits: Pair your chicken with warm, buttery biscuits for an indulgent touch that’s hard to resist.

How to Perfect Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Perfecting Super Crispy Fried Chicken involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use Seasoned Flour: Mixing paprika into your flour adds depth and color to the coating.
• Heat Oil Properly: Ensure your oil is at 365 degrees Fahrenheit before frying for optimal crispiness.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
• Let it Rest After Frying: Allowing the chicken to rest on a wire rack helps maintain its crispiness by preventing moisture buildup.
• Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.

Best Side Dishes for Super Crispy Fried Chicken

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some popular options that pair well with Super Crispy Fried Chicken:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy create a comforting classic.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds add color and nutrition.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can be made ahead and served cold, providing a nice contrast.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans complement the savory flavors of fried chicken perfectly.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings freshness and balance to your plate.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent choice that pairs beautifully with fried chicken’s richness.
7. Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette adds lightness amidst all the richness.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes: These tangy treats add another layer of Southern charm to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the perfect Super Crispy Fried Chicken. Here are some tips:

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. Always allow at least four hours for marination for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Insufficient Coating: Failing to coat the chicken well with flour can result in less crispy skin. Ensure each piece is thoroughly covered and let it sit to form a paste-like layer.
• Crowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, making the chicken soggy. Fry in batches to maintain optimal frying conditions.
• Not Checking Internal Temperature: Ignoring the internal temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Always check that it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
• Using Low-Quality Oil: Choosing an unsuitable oil can negatively affect flavor and crispiness. Use high smoke point oils like canola for frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Super Crispy Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Super Crispy Fried Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Super Crispy Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm, but this may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and reheat chicken pieces for about 5 minutes per side until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Super Crispy Fried Chicken.

How do I ensure my Super Crispy Fried Chicken is always crispy?

To achieve maximum crispiness, fry the chicken in batches without crowding the pan and allow it to rest after coating.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey, lamb, or beef if you prefer alternatives to chicken.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by mixing regular milk with vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How long does it take to cook Super Crispy Fried Chicken?

The cooking time is approximately 10-12 minutes per batch, depending on your frying method and size of chicken pieces.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of hot sauce mixed into the marinade based on your spice preference for extra heat.

Final Thoughts

Super Crispy Fried Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any dinner table. You can customize it with different spices or sauces according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!