Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of crispy, juicy chicken and vibrant flavors that are sure to impress. Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or game day gatherings, this dish stands out with its tantalizing spice and crunchy coating. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll soon discover why this recipe will become your go-to fried chicken favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The double-coating technique ensures a wonderfully crunchy exterior.
• Flavorful Marinade: Soaking in buttermilk and spices gives the chicken a tender, delicious flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is perfect for gatherings, making it an instant hit with friends and family.
• Easy Preparation: The marinating process allows for minimal hands-on time while maximizing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken perfectly, having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large resealable bags
• Baking sheets
• Deep Dutch oven pot
• Frying/candy thermometer
• Medium bowls
• Large mixing bowls

Why These Tools Matter

• Large resealable bags: Ideal for marinating chicken without making a mess.
• Deep Dutch oven pot: Provides even heat distribution for perfect frying results.
• Frying/candy thermometer: Helps maintain the correct oil temperature for crispy chicken.

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
• 1/2 of the seasoning blend (above)

For the Chicken

• 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. Add the chicken pieces and seal the bag while pressing out excess air. Rub the marinade into the chicken to ensure it’s fully submerged. Refrigerate for 6–12 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoning Blend

In a small bowl, add all of the spices mentioned above and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Shake off any excess marinade and place it on a baking sheet. Sprinkle half of your seasoning blend generously on both sides of each piece.

Step 4: Prepare Flour Mixture

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and the remaining half of your seasoning blend. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.

Step 5: Coat Chicken with Flour

Transfer your flour mixture into an extra-large resealable bag or paper bag. Place all seasoned chicken pieces inside, seal it tightly, and shake well to coat thoroughly. Remove coated chicken from the bag and arrange them back onto a baking sheet.

Step 6: Prepare Egg Mixture

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

Step 7: Dip Chicken in Egg Mixture

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture to coat lightly. Shake off any excess before returning it to the flour bag.

Step 8: Final Flour Coating

Seal the bag again and shake once more to ensure every piece is well-coated with flour. Place coated chicken onto a plate or another baking sheet.

Step 9: Heat Oil

Pour cooking oil into your deep Dutch oven pot. Attach your frying/candy thermometer to measure when it’s heated to 350°F. If you don’t have a thermometer available, drop in some flour; if it sizzles gently, your oil is ready!

Step 10: Frying Chicken

Line a large baking sheet with paper towels and set a cooling rack over it. Fry your chicken in batches—dark meat together and white meat together—for about 13–16 minutes (16–20 minutes for dark meat). Ensure that each piece reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F before removing from oil.

Step 11: Drain Excess Oil

Once done frying one batch, place it on the cooling rack to drain excess oil before heating back up to fry remaining pieces.

Step 12: Rest Before Serving

Allow your fried chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy every crispy bite!

How to Serve Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Serving Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken can elevate your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance the experience.

With Classic Sides

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
• Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Corn on the Cob – Sweet, juicy corn on the cob is a seasonal favorite that pairs well with fried chicken.

On a Sandwich

• Chicken Sandwich – Place a piece of fried chicken between two slices of soft bread, add lettuce and tomato for a hearty meal.
• Sliders – Cut smaller pieces of chicken to serve as sliders. Top with pickles and spicy mayo for a fun twist.

As Part of a Platter

• Fried Chicken Platter – Arrange the chicken pieces on a large platter with dips and sides for everyone to enjoy.
• Appetizer Skewers – Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, skewer them, and serve with dipping sauces for a party appetizer.

How to Perfect Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Perfecting your Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve that crispy, flavorful finish.

• Bold Seasoning – Make sure to season both the marinade and flour coating generously for maximum flavor.
• Proper Marination Time – Allow the chicken to marinate overnight if possible; this enhances moisture and taste.
• Right Oil Temperature – Always ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying. This helps achieve that perfect crispiness without greasy results.
• Batch Frying – Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking for all pieces.
• Cooling Rack Strategy – Use a cooling rack over paper towels after frying. This prevents steam buildup on the bottom, keeping your chicken crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

When serving Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, choosing the right side dishes is essential. Here are some perfect pairings that will complement your meal beautifully.

1. Biscuit – Fluffy biscuits are a classic Southern side that can soak up any leftover sauce.
2. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese offers a comforting contrast to the spicy chicken.
3. Green Beans Almondine – Lightly sautéed green beans with almonds add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Potato Salad – A cool potato salad balances out the heat from the spicy chicken while adding texture.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy fried green tomatoes provide an extra crunch that pairs well with your main dish.
6. Cucumber Salad – Refreshing cucumber salad offers a light bite that contrasts nicely with rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, there are a few common errors that can impact your results. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the chicken leads to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the buttermilk and spices for at least 6 hours.
• Not Using Enough Oil: Using too little oil can result in uneven cooking. Ensure the oil is deep enough to submerge the chicken completely for even frying.
• Overcrowding the Fryer: Adding too much chicken at once lowers the oil temperature. Fry in small batches to maintain a consistent heat for crispy skin.
• Ignoring Temperature Control: Cooking at incorrect temperatures can lead to burnt or undercooked chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays around 350°F.
• Not Letting Chicken Rest: Serving immediately after frying can cause it to lose moisture. Allow the chicken to rest on a cooling rack for 10 minutes before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil and reheat each piece until crispy and heated through, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, double-dip the chicken by coating it in flour, then dipping it back into the egg mixture before another flour coating.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Boneless pieces will cook faster but may require less marinating time. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

What is the best side dish with Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a delicious meal.

Can I customize the spice level of my fried chicken?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in your seasoning blend based on your spice preference. You can also experiment with different hot sauces.

How long does Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken take to prepare?

The total preparation time is around 6 hours and 36 minutes, including marination. The active cooking time is relatively short!

Conclusion

This Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe combines crispy texture with juicy meat, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize the spice levels and serve it alongside your favorite sides. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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