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Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

This flavorful crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken is perfectly crunchy, juicy, and just spicy enough to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
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Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 4 pieces Chicken drumsticks, thighs, or breasts Dark meat is recommended for best flavor.
Brine
  • 2 cups Buttermilk Do not substitute for the classic taste.
  • 3 tablespoons Hot sauce Use your favorite brand.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Pickle juice Optional, adds tangy flavor.
Coating
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour Regular all-purpose flour; do not use substitutes for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch For extra crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika For added flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder For seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder For seasoning.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Optional; use if you like heat.
Frying
  • 4 cups Vegetable or peanut oil For deep frying.

Method
 

Brining
  1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, and pickle juice.
  2. Add chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Coating
  1. In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  2. Remove chicken from the brine and let excess liquid drip off.
  3. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture until fully coated.
Frying
  1. Heat oil in a deep pot over medium-high heat. Test with a bread crumb; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
  2. Fry chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan, for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Remove chicken and rest on a wire rack to keep it crispy.

Notes

Leftover chicken should be stored in an airtight container lined with paper towels. For reheating, place in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy again.