Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a culinary delight that brings comfort and bold flavors to your dinner table. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight meals, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The unique combination of spices and the buttermilk marinade makes every bite juicy and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and buttermilk creates a deliciously spicy and savory coating that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it alongside your favorite sides, or enjoy it as a sandwich; this dish fits various dining occasions.
• Perfectly Crispy: The frying method results in an irresistibly crispy texture that’s hard to resist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, making weeknight meal prep a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for making this delicious Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Wire rack or plate
• Deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the buttermilk marinade and coating ingredients without spilling.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature, guaranteeing it’s fully cooked yet tender.
• Deep skillet or Dutch oven: Provides the necessary depth for frying, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.

Ingredients

To make Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the 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

For the 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

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, etc.)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

How to Make Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Pour 2 cups of buttermilk into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of hot sauce to the buttermilk and stir well to combine.
3. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and kosher salt.
4. Whisk until smooth.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Submerge 2 pounds of chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture.
2. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating

1. In another bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, cumin, and chili powder.
2. Whisk until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from the buttermilk mixture; allow excess to drip off.
2. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture; press gently for an even coating.
3. Place coated pieces on a wire rack or plate.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
2. Carefully lower chicken pieces into hot oil one at a time; do not overcrowd.
3. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check that internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

1. Remove fried chicken from oil; place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
2. Allow resting for a few minutes before serving hot.

Enjoy your homemade Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken! Perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair it with complementary sides or serve it on its own for a satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Classic Coleslaw

• Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the spiciness of the chicken. Use green cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing for a perfect match.

Cornbread Muffins

• Soft and sweet cornbread muffins offer a comforting side that pairs beautifully with fried chicken. Serve them warm with honey butter for extra indulgence.

Pickles and Relish

• A side of pickles or relish provides a tangy contrast to the crispy chicken. Choose dill pickles or spicy jalapeño slices for an added kick.

Potato Salad

• A creamy potato salad complements the crispy texture of the chicken. Mix boiled potatoes with mayonnaise, mustard, and herbs for a classic flavor.

Grilled Vegetables

• Lightly grilled vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate. Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus drizzled with olive oil make a great accompaniment.

Macaroni and Cheese

• Rich and cheesy macaroni serves as a comforting side that pairs well with fried chicken. Make it extra special by adding breadcrumbs on top before baking.

How to Perfect Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Achieving the perfect Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking techniques. Follow these tips for outstanding results.

• Proper marination: Ensure you let the chicken soak in the buttermilk mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
• Use high-quality oil: Opt for vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying, as they have high smoke points and contribute to better frying results.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep your oil temperature steady at 350°F while frying. If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb more oil; if too high, it may burn.
• Dredge evenly: When coating the chicken, press down gently in the flour mixture to ensure an even coverage that crisps up beautifully when fried.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if needed to prevent steaming rather than frying. This ensures each piece gets crispy without sogginess.
• Rest after frying: Allow your fried chicken to rest on a wire rack after frying. This helps maintain its crispiness by allowing excess oil to drain away.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Serving Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken alongside delicious sides can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some of the best options:

1. Classic Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for an irresistible addition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and color while keeping things light.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to spicy flavors while being easy to prepare in the oven or air fryer.
4. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing balance.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans complement fried chicken nicely with their rich flavors.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as a neutral base that absorbs all flavors from the meal.
7. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds summery vibes; brush it with butter and sprinkle some salt before serving.
8. Fried Green Tomatoes: These tangy bites offer crunch and acidity that pair wonderfully with crispy chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best results with your Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, be mindful of these common pitfalls.

• Bold seasoning failure: Skipping on spices can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you measure and mix spices thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Insufficient marinating time: Rushing the marination process will result in less flavor. Aim for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the oil at once can lower the temperature and make them soggy. Fry in batches for a crispy finish.
• Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the chicken right after frying lets juices escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Neglecting oil temperature: Not heating oil properly can lead to greasy chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is around 350°F before frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• It remains fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe bags or containers; it lasts up to 3 months.

Reheating Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently; this may soften the coating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken that might help you perfect your dish.

How can I make my Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken spicier?

You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add more hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for extra heat.

What should I serve with Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Pair it with coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes for a delicious meal.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or even lamb. Adjust cooking times based on thickness.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavor to any dinner table. It offers customization options, allowing you to adjust spice levels or pairings according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!