Crispy Juicy Fried Chicken (Print-Friendly Version)

Crispy, juicy fried chicken with a golden crust and tender interior. Southern-inspired and foolproof for any meal.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 chicken thighs
02 - 4 chicken drumsticks

→ Marinade

03 - 480 ml buttermilk

→ Coating

04 - 240 g all-purpose flour
05 - 1 teaspoon paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon salt
08 - 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ For Frying

09 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying

# How to Prepare:

01 - Combine chicken thighs and drumsticks with buttermilk in a large bowl. Submerge completely and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
02 - In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
03 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet and heat to 175°C.
04 - Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
05 - Working in batches, carefully lower chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry for 10–12 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 74°C.
06 - Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot for optimal crispness.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Allowing the chicken to marinate longer in buttermilk improves tenderness and enhances flavor.