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fried chicken recipe

Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe

5 from 2 votes
This Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe is crispy, juicy, and packed with Southern flavor. The chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of buttermilk, pickle juice, eggs, and hot sauce to tenderize and infuse it with flavor. It's then double-dredged in seasoned flour and cornstarch for that ultra-crispy, golden crust everyone loves. Perfect for Sunday dinner, cookouts, or anytime you’re craving comfort food.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
marinating 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Chicken Buttermilk Brine
  • 1 whole chicken cut into 8 pieces (leg, thigh, breast, wing)
  • 4 cups buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup pickle juice bread and butter
  • 2-3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce
  • 2 tbsp Bayou City Garlic Pepper
  • 2 tbs Bayou City All Purpose Seasoning
  • 1 tbs onion powder
  • 1 tbs cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbs smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground mustard
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
Flour Dredge
  • 1 cups flour
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp Bayou City Garlic Pepper
  • 1 tsp Bayou City All Purpose Seasoning
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp ground mustard
Frying
  • vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • tongs
  • Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wire rack
  • baking sheet
  • Kitchen thermometer  for checking oil and internal temp

Method
 

  1. Place the pieces of chicken in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. add pickle juice and hot sauce season with Bayou City Seasonings, onion powder, cayenne, smoked paprika, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
  2. In a large, shallow dish or on a plate, mix together the flour, Bayou City seasonings, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, oregano, gerund mustard, and cayenne pepper. This is your seasoned flour mixture.
  3. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking.
  4. Heat a large, deep fryer or Dutch oven with about 2-4 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat to reach 325°F (163°C).
  5. Take a piece of chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess buttermilk drip off. Then, roll it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to make sure it's well-coated.
  6. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack or a clean plate. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces.
  7. Carefully place a few pieces of chicken in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan and each piece is completely submerged. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken pieces.
  8. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. sprinkle with salt while they are hot.
  9. Serve the crispy fried chicken hot with your favorite sides. It's great with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, or just about any side dish you prefer.

Video

Notes

  • Pickle Juice: Dill pickle juice or bread and butter adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken — don’t skip it!
  • Cornstarch: This is key for getting that signature crispy, craggy crust.
  • Double Dredge: For ultra-crispy chicken, dredge twice — once after marinating, then dip back in the marinade, and dredge again.
  • Oil Temp: Keep the oil at a steady 325°F-350°F for even frying. Too hot and the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.
  • Leftovers: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F to maintain crispiness.