Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a classic comfort food made with chicken, buttermilk, seasoned flour, and hot oil for a crispy golden crust and juicy interior. It is simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners or special weekend meals.
Print
Pin
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 lbs chicken pieces such as wings, legs, thighs, or breasts
- 1 c buttermilk
- 2 c self-rising flour or all-purpose flour
- 1 tbs cornstarch
- 1 tbs salt, pepper, and garlic salt mixture
- 1/8 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
- Canola oil or peanut oil as needed for frying
Instructions
- Heat the frying oil to 350°F.
- Season the chicken pieces with half of the salt, pepper, and garlic salt mixture.
- Place the seasoned chicken in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over it.
- Let the chicken soak in the buttermilk for 5 minutes.
- In a brown paper bag or large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, remaining seasoning mixture, paprika, and cayenne pepper, if using.
- Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- For an extra crispy coating, add 2 tablespoons of buttermilk to the flour mixture and gently work it in with your hands until small clumps form.
- Add the chicken pieces to the seasoned flour mixture and coat each piece thoroughly.
- Remove the coated chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes to help the coating adhere.
- Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan or fryer.
- Fry for 12 to 16 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces, turning as needed, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels or a brown paper bag.
- Serve warm.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten free, replace the self-rising or all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that is suitable for frying. Also confirm that the cornstarch, garlic salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, and any seasoning blends are labeled gluten free, as ingredients and manufacturing practices may vary by brand. If using a gluten-free flour blend without leavening, the coating may be slightly different in texture but will still fry well. Always use clean oil and utensils to avoid cross-contact.