Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a must-try for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, game day, or a weekend gathering with friends, this recipe guarantees crispy, juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor. The unique blend of spices not only elevates the taste but also makes it incredibly satisfying. Once you serve this dish, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture – The double coating method creates a crunchy exterior that perfectly contrasts the tender meat inside.
• Flavor Explosion – A rich blend of spices ensures every bite is packed with a kick of flavor.
• Versatile Dish – Perfect for casual dining or special occasions; it’s sure to impress your guests.
• Easy to Follow – Simple steps make this recipe accessible to both novice and experienced cooks alike.
• Make Ahead Option – Marinate the chicken overnight for an even deeper flavor profile.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, having the right tools is essential. These items will streamline the cooking process and help you achieve delicious results.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large resealable bags – Ideal for marinating chicken evenly and keeping flavors locked in.
• Deep Dutch oven pot – Provides consistent heat for frying, ensuring that chicken cooks evenly.
• Frying/candy thermometer – Helps monitor oil temperature, preventing undercooked or burnt chicken.
• Cooling rack – Allows excess oil to drain off while keeping chicken crisp.

Ingredients

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 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons celery salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For Coating

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder

For Chicken Preparation

• 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 to the marinade. Seal the bag while pressing out air and rub to ensure all pieces are submerged. Refrigerate for 6-12 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Mix Spices

In a small bowl, add all of the spices listed above. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Coat Chicken with Seasoning

Remove chicken from the refrigerator and shake off (or rinse) excess marinade. Place on a baking sheet and sprinkle half of the seasoning blend on both sides of each piece.

Step 5: Prepare Flour Mixture

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and remaining seasoning blend. Mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Coat Chicken in Flour

Pour flour mixture into an extra-large resealable bag or paper bag. Add all chicken pieces inside, seal it up, and shake well to coat thoroughly. Remove pieces from bag back onto baking sheet.

Step 7: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, beat eggs together until pale. Add buttermilk and hot sauce; mix until combined. Stir in garlic powder.

Step 8: Dip Chicken Pieces

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

Step 9: Second Coating

Seal the bag again and shake until all pieces are well coated once more. Transfer to a plate or another baking sheet.

Step 10: Heat Oil

Pour oil into deep Dutch oven pot; attach thermometer on side without touching bottom. Heat until oil reaches 350°F. If no thermometer is available, test with flour—if it fries gently, it’s ready.

Step 11: Set Up Cooling Station

Line a large baking sheet with paper towels and place cooling rack on top; set aside.

Step 12: Fry Chicken

Add chicken to oil in batches—dark meat together and white meat together—fry for about 13-16 minutes (16-20 minutes for dark meat). Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F before removing from oil. If not done, bake at 350°F until cooked through.

Step 13: Drain Excess Oil

Transfer fried chicken onto cooling rack to drain excess oil. Repeat frying process until all chicken is cooked.

Step 14: Serve

Let fried chicken sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Serving Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken can elevate any meal, making it the star of the table. Whether you’re hosting a family feast or enjoying a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Coleslaw

• A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken, balancing the flavors perfectly.

On a Bun

• Create delicious fried chicken sandwiches by placing the crispy pieces on toasted buns with lettuce and mayo for a satisfying meal.

With Pickles

• Serve with dill pickles on the side; their brininess complements the richness of the fried chicken beautifully.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey over the chicken brings a sweet note that pairs well with its spiciness, creating a delightful flavor combination.

Accompanied by Hot Sauce

• For those who love extra heat, offer additional hot sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over each piece.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, providing a comforting side that enhances the overall meal experience.

How to Perfect Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Perfecting your Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your chicken turns out crispy and flavorful every time.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight intensifies the flavors and keeps it juicy during frying.
• Use Fresh Oil: Fresh cooking oil ensures that your chicken fries evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keeping oil at 350°F is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Fry in Batches: Cooking in smaller batches prevents overcrowding, allowing each piece to fry evenly without lowering the oil temperature.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting fried chicken rest for about 10 minutes before serving helps retain its juiciness and allows flavors to settle.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with spices! A good seasoning blend will elevate your dish and bring out all those delicious flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: Comforting pasta in rich cheese sauce makes for a satisfying side that everyone loves.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a lovely texture contrast alongside spicy fried chicken.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add nutritional balance and vibrant colors to your plate.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are an excellent pairing, enhancing the comfort food vibe of your meal.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad offers crisp freshness, cutting through the richness of fried chicken beautifully.
6. French Fries: Classic fries are always a hit; consider seasoning them with garlic or herbs for an extra flavor boost.
7. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad adds heartiness while providing cooling relief from the spicy chicken.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection creates a delightful summertime feel when served with fried chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping the seasoning blend can lead to bland chicken. Always ensure you coat your chicken evenly with the spice mixture for maximum flavor.
• Bold marinating time: Not marinating long enough can result in dry meat. Aim for at least 6 hours, or overnight for the best results.
• Bold oil temperature: Frying at incorrect temperatures may yield soggy or burnt chicken. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F for crispy results.
• Bold coating: Neglecting to double-bread your chicken can make it less crispy. Ensure you dip in the egg mixture and then back into the flour for an extra crunch.
• Bold overcrowding: Overcrowding the frying pot leads to uneven cooking. Fry in batches to maintain consistent heat and proper cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat on a baking sheet for approximately 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts (1 minute at a time) until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate my chicken for Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Marinate your chicken for at least 6 hours, but overnight is recommended for optimal flavor and tenderness.

What type of oil is best for frying Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Use oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil or canola oil. They help achieve that perfect crispiness without burning.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes! You can use boneless cuts like thighs or breasts; just adjust frying times as boneless pieces may cook faster.

Is it possible to make Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends suitable for frying.

Conclusion

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe is not only crispy and juicy but also highly customizable. Whether you prefer more heat or different spices, feel free to adapt it to your taste. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become your new favorite!