5 Best Fried Chicken Recipes Crispy and Delicious

Discover 5 mouthwatering fried chicken recipes that deliver crispy and delicious results. We'll explore various techniques, product recommendations, and comparisons to help you achieve fried chicken perfection. Get ready to enjoy a satisfying and flavorful fried chicken meal.

Why Fried Chicken Is the Ultimate Comfort Food

Okay, let's be real. Is there anything more comforting than biting into a piece of perfectly fried chicken? The crispy skin, the juicy meat, the satisfying crunch… it's a symphony of textures and flavors that just hits the spot. Fried chicken is a classic for a reason, and it's a dish that brings people together. Whether you're enjoying it at a picnic, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, fried chicken is always a winner.

Recipe 1: Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

This is the OG, the foundation upon which all other fried chicken recipes are built. Buttermilk is the key to tender, juicy chicken, and the seasoned flour creates that irresistible crispy crust.

Ingredients for Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• 1 (3-4 pound) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions on How to Make Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, buttermilk, and hot sauce (if using). Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the buttermilk to tenderize the chicken and the flavors to meld.
2. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). This is your dredge, and it's what gives the chicken its crispy coating.
3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Press the flour into the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to 325-350°F (160-175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
5. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
6. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain. This helps to keep the chicken crispy.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe 2: Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Recipe with Gochujang Sauce

This recipe takes fried chicken to the next level with a sweet, spicy, and sticky gochujang sauce. It's a flavor explosion in every bite!

Ingredients for Spicy Korean Fried Chicken

• 1 (3-4 pound) chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Gochujang Sauce Ingredients

• 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions on How to Make Spicy Korean Fried Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch.
3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture.
4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. While the chicken is frying, prepare the gochujang sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the gochujang, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
7. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain.
8. Dip each piece of fried chicken in the gochujang sauce, coating it completely.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy! Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.

Recipe 3: Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe for a Healthier Option

Craving fried chicken but want to cut back on the oil? This air fryer recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken with a fraction of the fat.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Fried Chicken

• 1 (3-4 pound) chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• Cooking spray

Instructions on How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
6. Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. You may need to cook the chicken in batches.
7. Spray the chicken with cooking spray.
8. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe 4: Nashville Hot Chicken Recipe for the Heat Lovers

Nashville Hot Chicken is not for the faint of heart! This fiery recipe features chicken coated in a cayenne pepper-infused oil, delivering an intense heat that's both addictive and delicious.

Ingredients for Nashville Hot Chicken

• 1 (3-4 pound) chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Nashville Hot Oil Ingredients

• 1/2 cup reserved frying oil
• 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions on How to Make Nashville Hot Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture.
4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to 325-350°F (160-175°C).
5. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain. Reserve 1/2 cup of the frying oil.
7. While the chicken is frying, prepare the Nashville hot oil. In a small saucepan, combine the reserved frying oil, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is well combined.
8. Brush each piece of fried chicken with the Nashville hot oil.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy! Traditionally served on white bread with pickles.

Recipe 5: Lemon Herb Fried Chicken Recipe for a Fresh Twist

This recipe adds a bright and zesty twist to classic fried chicken with lemon and herbs. It's a perfect choice for a springtime meal.

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Fried Chicken

• 1 (3-4 pound) chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions on How to Make Lemon Herb Fried Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, thyme, rosemary, and lemon zest.
3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture.
4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to 325-350°F (160-175°C).
5. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Essential Equipment for Perfect Fried Chicken

Having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving fried chicken perfection.

• Deep Fry Thermometer: Crucial for maintaining the correct oil temperature, preventing soggy or burnt chicken. I recommend the ThermoPro TP03A Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer. It's affordable and accurate, usually around $15.
• Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: Provides even heat distribution for consistent cooking. The Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is a great option, known for its durability and heat retention. Prices range from $70 to $120 depending on size and color.
• Wire Rack: Allows excess oil to drain, keeping your fried chicken crispy. A basic wire rack from any kitchen supply store will do, costing around $5-$10.
• Tongs: For safely handling hot chicken pieces. OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Tongs are a reliable and comfortable choice, priced around $15.

Choosing the Right Oil for Frying Your Chicken

The type of oil you use can significantly impact the flavor and crispness of your fried chicken. Here's a breakdown of popular options:

• Vegetable Oil: A neutral-flavored and affordable option with a high smoke point. It's a good all-purpose choice.
• Peanut Oil: Has a slightly nutty flavor and a high smoke point. It's a popular choice for professional fried chicken because it provides a very crispy crust.
• Canola Oil: Another neutral-flavored option with a high smoke point. It's a good alternative to vegetable oil.
• Lard: Offers a rich, savory flavor and produces incredibly crispy skin. However, it's higher in saturated fat.

Product Comparison: Pre-Seasoned Flour Mixes

Want to skip the hassle of measuring out spices? Pre-seasoned flour mixes can be a convenient option.

• Zatarain's Crispy Southern Fry: A classic choice with a bold, Cajun-inspired flavor. It's widely available and relatively inexpensive, around $3-$5 per bag. Many people find it a little too salty, so adjust accordingly.
• Louisiana Fish Fry Products Chicken Fry: Another popular brand with a more subtle flavor than Zatarain's. It's also widely available and affordable, around $3-$5 per bag. It is very good for a less salty chicken.
• Kentucky Kernel Seasoned Flour: A less common option, but worth seeking out for its unique blend of spices. It tends to be a bit more expensive, around $5-$7 per bag, but it often provides a richer flavor.

Tips for Achieving Fried Chicken Perfection

• Don't overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
• Use a thermometer: Monitor the oil temperature to ensure even cooking.
• Don't flip the chicken too often: Let each side cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a crispy crust.
• Let the chicken rest on a wire rack: This allows excess oil to drain and keeps the chicken crispy.
• Season generously: Don't be afraid to season your flour mixture and buttermilk with plenty of salt, pepper, and other spices.