The air was thick with the enticing aroma of sizzling chicken, drawing me back to sunny summer afternoons spent at my grandmother’s kitchen, where crispy fried chicken was an unspoken tradition. Today, I’m excited to share my Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe, a delightful twist on that cherished memory. The magic lies in the buttermilk marinade, which locks in juiciness while the secret blend of spices ignites a fiery kick that lingers pleasantly. This spicy fried chicken recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen, making it perfect for any weeknight craving or weekend get-together. Why settle for takeout when you can recreate this comfort food classic at home? Are you ready to dive into the crispy goodness?
Why is this fried chicken a must-try?
Juicy, Flavor-Packed Delight: The buttermilk marinade is a game changer! It ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy, while the spices add a delightful kick that tickles your taste buds.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. You’ll impress everyone with your cooking skills!
Crowd Favorite: There’s a reason fried chicken is a classic. Serve it with creamy coleslaw for a complete meal or transform it into a delicious sandwich with your favorite toppings!
Customizable Spice Levels: Whether you’re a spice lover or prefer a milder taste, you can easily adjust the heat by altering the amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
Feel free to explore other delectable options like Bang Chicken Spicy for more exciting flavors or try these Savory Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a lighter twist on chicken!
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Ingredients
Get ready to make magic happen in your kitchen!
For the Marinade
- Buttermilk – Essential for marinating the chicken; it tenderizes and infuses flavor—substitute with thinned plain yogurt if necessary.
- Hot Sauce – Adds the heat to the marinade; modify the amount for your desired spiciness level.
- Garlic Powder – Provides depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Onion Powder – Enhances the savory taste of the chicken.
- Smoked Paprika – Imparts a wonderful smokiness and vibrant color.
- Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; use freshly ground for the best flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Vital for making every bite delicious; don’t skip it!
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms a crispy coating for frying; it’ll give your chicken that perfect crunch.
- Cornstarch – Helps achieve an even crispier texture.
- Cayenne Pepper – Gives a spicy kick; feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
- Dried Oregano – Adds a touch of herbal flavor.
- Dried Thyme – Complements the other spices nicely.
- Ground Cumin – Contributes an earthy richness.
- Chili Powder – Rounds out the whole spice mix for added depth.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, etc.) – The star of the show! Opt for bone-in for the most flavor, or use boneless adjustments as needed.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil – Required for frying; choose one with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil for the best results.
Get ready to sink your teeth into this crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of hot sauce. Add in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Stir until well mixed, creating a vibrant marinade full of flavor. This step is crucial for ensuring the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Submerge 2 pounds of chicken pieces in the buttermilk marinade, making sure all pieces are coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours; for deeper flavor, overnight marinating is ideal. This step helps tenderize the chicken while allowing the spices to permeate the meat, ensuring every bite has that delightful taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
While the chicken marinates, create the crispy coating by mixing 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a separate bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, and chili powder. Whisk together until combined, ensuring a robust and spicy dusting awaits your chicken.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove each piece from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick coating adheres. This step is vital for achieving that deliciously crispy exterior everyone loves in crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in vegetable oil until it reaches about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy, and you’ll know it’s ready when a small drop of flour sizzles upon contact. This oil temperature is perfect for frying chicken to golden perfection.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The sound of sizzling chicken is music to your ears!
Step 7: Drain and Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain surplus oil. Avoid covering the chicken right away, as this can trap steam and reduce the crispiness. Allow it to rest briefly; this step ensures that each piece remains gloriously crunchy while keeping the juicy goodness inside.
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative in the kitchen! With a few tweaks, you can truly make this recipe your own.
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Boneless Option: Replace bone-in chicken with boneless cuts for quicker cooking. Ideal for those busy weeknights! They cook faster and still remain deliciously juicy.
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Milder Spice: Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a gentler kick. This keeps the flavor intact while catering to those who prefer less heat.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the marinade for an aromatic twist. The added freshness beautifully complements the spices.
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Crispy Panko: Swap half of the flour with panko bread crumbs for an ultra-crispy coating. This gives an exciting texture that elevates your fried chicken experience.
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Air-Fried Delight: For a healthier option, cook your chicken in an air fryer instead of deep frying. Adjust the cooking time for perfectly crispy results without the extra oil.
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Sweet Chilli Drizzle: Drizzle the finished chicken with sweet chili sauce for a sweet and spicy contrast. This addition will transform your fried chicken into a finger-licking treat!
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Beer Batter: Incorporate a splash of beer into your flour mixture for added flavor and an even crunchier crust. A fun twist that adds complexity to the traditional taste!
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Savory Glaze: Try tossing the chicken in a soy sauce and garlic glaze after frying for an Asian-inspired flavor. Perfect for those who love fusion cuisine!
Feel inspired? Explore more delicious options like Fiery Chicken Ramen or indulge in Stuffed Chicken Breast for more chicken variations!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken delights are excellent for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for that extra kick. Additionally, you can prepare the flour coating mixture and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the prepped flour mixture, and then fry as usual. This approach not only saves you time during busy weeknights but also ensures restaurant-quality results with ease—your friends and family will be in awe of your culinary prowess!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover crispy fried chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place paper towels in the container to absorb moisture and maintain crispiness.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the chicken individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This will help restore its signature crunch.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the chicken out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure freshness and safety.
Helpful Tricks for Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
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Perfect Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This helps the spices penetrate deeply for flavorful, juicy results in your crispy fried chicken.
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Oil Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F. This temperature ensures each piece of chicken fries evenly, resulting in that coveted golden-brown crust without overcooking the meat.
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Avoid Crowding: Fry chicken in small batches to prevent overcrowding, which can drop the oil’s temperature and lead to soggy coating instead of crispy perfection.
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Resting is Key: Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack rather than in a covered dish. This prevents condensation that can make the crust soggy, keeping your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken as crunchy as possible.
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Flour Mixture Matters: Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing it in to create a thick crust. This will enhance the crispiness and flavor of your chicken.
What to Serve with Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Elevate your chicken feast by pairing it with these delightful accompaniments that enhance flavor and texture.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw is the perfect contrast to the spicy chicken. The coolness balances the heat beautifully.
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Fluffy Biscuits: Soft, buttery biscuits are a Southern classic. They soak up the juices and add a comforting element to your meal.
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Sweet Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the natural sweetness of corn pairs well, adding a juicy, refreshing bite to every plate.
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Jameson Whiskey Drink: Pair your meal with a smooth whiskey cocktail. Its rich flavor complements the spices, creating a harmonious experience.
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Crispy French Fries: Nothing beats salty, golden fries alongside fried chicken. Dipping them in a bit of honey or hot sauce just elevates the experience.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery with a hint of garlic, these are great for mopping up any sauce or drippings.
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Pickles and Peppers: The crunch and acidity of pickles or spicy peppers provide an excellent counterpoint to the crispy, spicy chicken.
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Honey Drizzle: A little sweetness goes a long way! Drizzle honey over your chicken for a contrasting flavor twist that’s simply amazing.
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of buttermilk is best for marinating chicken?
Absolutely, using real buttermilk is the ideal choice for marinating! It tenderizes the chicken beautifully and adds a rich flavor. If you can’t find buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing plain yogurt with a little milk until you reach a pourable consistency—this works well too!
How should I store leftover fried chicken?
For best storage, let your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain crispiness, place paper towels in the container to absorb any moisture. This is a game-changer in keeping that crunchy texture!
Can I freeze crispy fried chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until solid. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer bag; it will keep for up to 2 months. This method ensures each piece retains its delicious crispy coating when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What should I do if my chicken coating isn’t crispy?
If your coating isn’t turning out crispy, a few extra steps can help! First, make sure your oil is hot enough—350°F (175°C) is perfect! Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature. Also, check your dredging technique; ensure each chicken piece is fully coated and pressed into the flour mix for that extra crunch. Lastly, let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack right after frying to help keep the coating crispy.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider when making this chicken?
If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, it’s good to note that this recipe does contain gluten due to the all-purpose flour. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Additionally, if making for pets, remember that the spices and fried nature may not sit well with their stomachs, so it’s best to stick with plain, unseasoned chicken for them.
How long can I keep the chicken at room temperature?
To ensure food safety, avoid leaving your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Beyond that, bacteria can grow, making it unsafe to eat. Always prioritize freshness and safety when serving!
Unleash Flavor: Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of hot sauce. Add in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of kosher salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Submerge 2 pounds of chicken pieces in the buttermilk marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
- While the chicken marinates, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Add 1 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, and chili powder. Whisk until combined.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- In a deep skillet, pour vegetable oil to a depth of 1 inch and heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Add chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove chicken from oil and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
