Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together crispy textures and bold flavors. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a special treat, this recipe stands out with its unique blend of spices and the tenderizing effect of buttermilk. Once you try this Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, it will surely become your favorite fried chicken recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The double-coating method ensures a super crunchy crust that holds up against any dipping sauce.
• Juicy and Tender: The buttermilk marinade makes the chicken incredibly moist and flavorful.
• Flavorful Spice Blend: A mix of spices adds the perfect kick without overwhelming heat, making it suitable for everyone.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or on a bun as a sandwich.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties or family meals; everyone loves homemade fried chicken!

Tools and Preparation

To make Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large resealable bags
• Deep dutch oven pot
• Frying/candy thermometer
• Baking sheets
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Large resealable bags: Perfect for marinating the chicken and coating it in flour without making a mess.
• Deep dutch oven pot: Allows even frying with enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces.
• Frying/candy thermometer: Ensures that your oil is at the perfect temperature for frying to achieve that crispy finish.

Ingredients

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is crispy, juicy and seasoned to perfection. Everyone needs a favourite go-to fried chicken recipe, and once you try this one, I’m sure it’ll be yours!

For the Marinade

• 2 and 1/2 quarts cooking oil, for frying
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon Kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ground cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon white pepper
• 2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoon celery salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Coating

• 3 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 of the seasoning blend (above)

For the Chicken

• 2 quarts (8 cups) full-fat buttermilk
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 3-4 tablespoons Kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons black peppercorns
• (3 and 1/2 – 4 lbs) whole chicken, cut into 10-12 pieces

How to Make Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large resealable bag, combine the buttermilk, sliced onions, sliced garlic, hot sauce, salt, and black peppercorns.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces and seal the bag while pressing out excess air. Rub marinade into the chicken ensuring it’s submerged. Refrigerate for 6-12 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Mix Spices

In a small bowl, add all spices from your seasoning blend. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade; shake off excess liquid. Place on a baking sheet and sprinkle half of your spice mix on both sides.

Step 5: Prepare Flour Mixture

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and remaining spice mix. Mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Dredge Chicken in Flour

Transfer flour mixture into an extra-large resealable bag or paper bag. Add chicken pieces; seal bag and shake to coat evenly.

Step 7: Prepare Egg Mixture

In another medium bowl, beat eggs until pale. Add buttermilk and hot sauce; mix until combined then stir in garlic powder.

Step 8: Dip Chicken in Egg Mixture

Dip each piece of coated chicken into egg mixture; shake off excess before returning to flour bag.

Step 9: Final Coating

Seal bag again and shake until all pieces are well coated. Remove from bag and place onto a plate or second baking sheet.

Step 10: Heat Oil

Pour cooking oil into deep dutch oven pot. Attach thermometer to ensure oil reaches 350°F. If no thermometer is available, test with some flour; if it bubbles gently, it’s ready.

Step 11: Prepare for Frying

Line baking sheet with paper towels and place cooling rack on top.

Step 12: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add chicken to hot oil in batches (dark meat together; white meat together). Fry for 13-16 minutes (16-20 minutes for dark meat).

Step 13: Check Doneness

Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F before removing from oil. If not done yet, preheat oven to 350°F and bake until cooked through.

Step 14: Drain Excess Oil

Transfer fried chicken onto cooling rack to let excess oil drain before serving.

Let sit for about 10 minutes before enjoying your delicious Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a classic meal or something a bit more adventurous, here are some serving ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Classic Southern Style

• With Biscuits: Serve the fried chicken with fluffy biscuits for a traditional Southern meal. A drizzle of honey or a pat of butter adds extra flavor.
• Collard Greens: The slight bitterness of collard greens complements the rich flavors of the fried chicken beautifully.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and crunch, making it a perfect side.

Creative Twists

• Chicken Sandwich: Place the spicy chicken between two slices of bread with lettuce and pickles for a delicious sandwich.
• Spicy Chicken Tacos: Shred leftover chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with avocado and salsa for a tasty twist.
• Salad Topper: Add crispy chicken pieces to your favorite salad for an added crunch and flavor boost.

Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Ranch: A creamy ranch dressing with a kick pairs well with the flavors of the chicken.
• Honey Mustard: A tangy honey mustard sauce balances out the spice perfectly.

How to Perfect Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Getting your chicken just right is essential for a memorable meal. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfection.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spices and ingredients to enhance flavor. Old spices can lose their potency.
• Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate your chicken overnight. This allows it to absorb all the spices and buttermilk goodness.
• Check Oil Temperature: Maintaining the oil at 350°F ensures even cooking and crispiness. Too hot can burn the crust while undercooked meat remains inside.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your chicken to rest after frying helps keep it juicy by letting the juices redistribute.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some delicious options that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni and cheese offers comfort and richness, balancing out the spice of the chicken.
2. Potato Salad: A cool potato salad can provide a refreshing contrast, especially on warm days.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, making it an excellent match for fried chicken.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans introduce a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of fried chicken.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes add another layer of Southern charm to your plate.
6. Cornbread: Moist cornbread is perfect for soaking up any juices from your fried chicken while adding its own unique flavor.
7. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables offer a healthy side option that complements rich flavors nicely.
8. French Fries: Classic French fries are always a hit, providing that familiar crunch alongside your spicy meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure to avoid these common pitfalls when making this delicious Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken.

• Skipping the Marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best results.
• Not Using Enough Oil: Frying in too little oil can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken. Use enough oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to ensure each piece cooks evenly and gets crispy.
• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Failing to check the internal temperature of the chicken can result in undercooked or overcooked meat. Always aim for an internal temperature of 160°F.
• Rushing the Cooling Process: Cutting into the chicken immediately after frying can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

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

Reheating Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake chicken on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm, but be aware this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken so flavorful?

The combination of buttermilk and spices creates a rich marinade that penetrates the chicken, infusing it with flavor.

Can I adjust the spice level in Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Absolutely! You can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.

How do I ensure my Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is crispy?

Fry at the right temperature (350°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps maintain crispiness.

Is it necessary to use full-fat buttermilk?

While you can use low-fat buttermilk, full-fat gives the best richness and moisture in your fried chicken.

Can I make Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for frying.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe is not just crispy and juicy; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spices or serving it with various sides. Give this recipe a try, and I’m sure it will become your new favorite!