Chef John's Buttermilk Fried Chicken easy chicken recipes easy chicken recipes for dinner

 Chef John's Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipes 

Introduction

Fried chicken is a classic comfort food that brings joy to many. Chef John's Buttermilk Fried Chicken takes this beloved dish to the next level with a perfectly seasoned, crispy crust and juicy, tender meat. The secret to this deliciousness lies in the buttermilk marinade, which not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to tenderize it. Let's dive into this mouth-watering recipe and discover how you can make Chef John's Buttermilk Fried Chicken at home.

Ingredients

To create Chef John's Buttermilk Fried Chicken, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying (preferably peanut or vegetable oil)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect fried chicken. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle tangy flavor. The flour and spices create a flavorful, crispy crust, while the oil ensures even frying.

Preparation Steps

Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk with a generous amount of salt and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged in the buttermilk.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preparing the Coating Mixture

1. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Instructions

Frying the Chicken

1. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
4. Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
5. Fry each piece for about 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tips for Achieving Perfect Crispiness

• Ensure the oil maintains a consistent temperature.
• Avoid overcrowding the frying pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy chicken.
• Let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying to allow excess oil to drain off.

Serving Suggestions

Buttermilk fried chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:

• Mashed potatoes and gravy
• Coleslaw
• Cornbread
• Steamed broccoli or green beans

For a visually appealing presentation, garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Nutritional Information

While buttermilk fried chicken is undeniably delicious, it's also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here's a rough estimate per serving (one piece of chicken):

• Calories: 300-400
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Tips and Tricks

To ensure your buttermilk fried chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Well-Coated Chicken: Make sure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the flour mixture to achieve a crispy crust.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature between 325°F and 350°F for even cooking.
• Resting: Let the chicken rest on a wire rack for a few minutes after frying to drain excess oil.

Variations

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add an extra teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture and a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.

Gluten-Free Option

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your fried chicken turns out perfect, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcrowding the Frying Pan: This can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
• Not Marinating Long Enough: For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours.
• Inconsistent Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 350°F.