Crispy, juicy fried chicken with a tangy buttermilk marinade that tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. Perfect for a Southern-style feast.
20 min prep
20 min cook
4 servings
550 kcal/serving
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
2 cups buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Add chicken pieces, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika.
Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Place on a wire rack and let rest for 10 minutes.
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully add chicken pieces in batches, skin-side down, without overcrowding. Fry for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot.
Tips
For extra crunch, double-dredge: dip chicken back into buttermilk, then flour again before frying.
Let the coated chicken rest before frying to help the coating adhere better.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.