Indulge in the perfect combination of crunchy and succulent with this City Fried Chicken recipe. With its crispy golden crust and tender meat, seasoned to perfection, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser. The secret lies in a flavorful blend of spices and a double-dip technique that creates an irresistible texture. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, City Fried Chicken will leave everyone craving for more.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken pieces (leg quarters, drumsticks, or bone-in thighs)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk. Make sure they are well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for the best results.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This will be your seasoned flour mixture.
- Take one piece of marinated chicken at a time and shake off the excess buttermilk. Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Press the flour gently onto the chicken to create a thick and even coating. Set it aside on a baking sheet or wire rack.
- Repeat the dredging process for all the chicken pieces. Let them rest for 15 minutes to allow the flour coating to adhere well.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat enough vegetable oil to deep-fry the chicken over medium-high heat. The oil should be approximately 1 inch deep.
- Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for about 12-15 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve the City Fried Chicken while it's still hot and crispy. Pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a classic American comfort food experience.
Interesting Facts
The double-dip technique of coating the chicken in buttermilk and seasoned flour creates an extra crispy exterior while keeping the meat moist and juicy.
City Fried Chicken is a popular dish in Southern cuisine, often served with hot sauce or honey for added flavor.
To make the chicken extra spicy, add extra cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour mixture.
Leftover fried chicken can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven for a crispy finish.