Enjoy the mouth-watering goodness of classic American fried chicken with this easy and delicious recipe. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish is perfect for any occasion. With a savory blend of herbs and spices, this recipe brings out the true flavor of chicken. Serve it with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite sides for a complete comfort food meal. Follow these simple steps and savor the taste of homemade American fried chicken.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken pieces (such as drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Place the chicken pieces in the bowl with the seasoned flour mixture. Toss the chicken to coat it completely with the flour mixture.
- Pour the buttermilk into another bowl. Dip each coated chicken piece into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Return the chicken to the seasoned flour mixture and coat it once again, pressing the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1 inch deep.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin side down. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the American fried chicken hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Fried chicken is a popular dish in American cuisine, with its origins traced back to West Africa.
Buttermilk is commonly used in Southern-style fried chicken recipes as it helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.
To achieve a crispy texture, it's important to dredge the chicken in flour before frying.
The key to moist and juicy fried chicken is ensuring the chicken is fully cooked without overcooking it.