How to Make Crispy and Juicy Fried Chicken at Home – A Step-by-Step Guide

Fried chicken is a crispy, juicy, and flavorful dish loved all over the world. Whether you enjoy it spicy, crunchy, or extra crispy, homemade fried chicken is always a treat. Making perfect fried chicken at home is easier than you think—all you need is the right technique, seasoning, and frying method.

In this detailed guide, we will take you through a step-by-step recipe to make the crispiest, juiciest, and most delicious fried chicken at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Perfectly crispy and golden brown crust
✔ Juicy and tender on the inside
✔ Simple ingredients but restaurant-quality taste
✔ Customizable spice level to your liking

Ingredients for Fried Chicken

For the Chicken:

✔ 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken (cut into pieces)
✔ 2 cups buttermilk (for marination)
✔ 1 teaspoon salt
✔ 1 teaspoon black pepper
✔ 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Coating:

✔ 2 cups all-purpose flour
✔ 1 teaspoon paprika
✔ 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for spice)
✔ 1 teaspoon salt
✔ 1 teaspoon black pepper
✔ ½ teaspoon onion powder
✔ ½ teaspoon baking powder (for extra crispiness)

For Frying:

✔ 3-4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Add the chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for the best flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another large bowl, mix flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and baking powder.
Take each piece of marinated chicken and let the excess buttermilk drip off.
Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
Press the flour onto the chicken to create a thick, crispy crust.
Place the coated chicken on a plate and let it rest for 10-15 minutes (this helps the coating stick).

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Step 3: Fry the Chicken

In a deep frying pan or pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
Use a thermometer to check if the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove and place on a wire rack (not paper towels) to keep it crispy.

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Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken

✔ Marinate overnight – This makes the chicken extra juicy and flavorful.
✔ Use a thermometer – Ensures the oil is at the right temperature and the chicken is cooked inside.
✔ Let the coating rest before frying – This helps the flour stick better.
✔ Fry in batches – Overcrowding reduces crispiness.
✔ Use a wire rack for draining – Keeps the chicken crispy, unlike paper towels, which make it soggy.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your crispy fried chicken with:
✔ French fries or mashed potatoes
✔ Coleslaw for a refreshing contrast
✔ Spicy dipping sauces like sriracha mayo or honey mustard
✔ Cornbread or soft dinner rolls

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Final Thoughts

Homemade fried chicken is a game-changer when done right. With a crispy crust, juicy inside, and bold flavors, this recipe is perfect for family meals, gatherings, or just satisfying a craving. Once you try this easy and foolproof fried chicken recipe, you’ll never want to buy fast food fried chicken again!

Try this recipe today and enjoy crispy, golden-brown perfection at home!

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