How to Make Crispy and Juicy Fried Chicken at Home

Fried chicken is one of the most beloved comfort foods, known for its crispy golden crust and tender, juicy meat. Whether you're making it for a family dinner, a picnic, or just craving that perfect crunch, this homemade crispy fried chicken recipe will give you restaurant-style results right in your kitchen.

Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to achieve the perfect fried chicken—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor!

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Ingredients for Crispy Fried Chicken

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 6-8 pieces of chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or wings)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are fully coated in the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) to tenderize the chicken and enhance flavor.

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Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
3. Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick, even coating.
4. Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes—this helps the coating stick better during frying.

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Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. In a deep fryer or a large heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add the chicken pieces, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
5. Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

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Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or hot sauce.
• Pair it with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits for a complete meal.

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Tips for the Best Fried Chicken

✔ Use buttermilk for a tender and flavorful chicken.
✔ Cornstarch makes the coating extra crispy.
✔ Let the coated chicken rest before frying to prevent the breading from falling off.
✔ Maintain the oil temperature for even cooking and crispiness.
✔ Fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature.

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Customizations & Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Increase the cayenne pepper and hot sauce in the marinade.
• Extra Crunchy: Double-dip the chicken by coating it in the flour, dipping it back in buttermilk, then re-coating it in flour.
• Oven-Baked Version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor
✅ Better than fast food—homemade and fresh
✅ Perfect for family meals, parties, or game nights
✅ Easy to make with simple ingredients

Try this homemade crispy fried chicken recipe today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food at home!

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