Great All-American Fried Chicken

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—this classic American fried chicken is seasoned to perfection and deep-fried to a golden brown. Serve it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits for the ultimate comfort meal!

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

Directions

1. 1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:
2. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce.
3. Add chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for the best flavor.
4. 2️⃣ Prepare the Coating:
5. In another bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
6. 3️⃣ Coat the Chicken:
7. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.
8. Dredge in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat evenly.
9. Let the coated chicken rest for 10–15 minutes to help the crust stick.
10. 4️⃣ Heat the Oil:
11. Pour oil into a deep frying pan or Dutch oven.
12. Heat to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat.
13. 5️⃣ Fry the Chicken:
14. Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
15. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature (should be 165°F (75°C)).
16. 6️⃣ Drain & Serve:
17. Remove and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
18. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces and sides!