“Can you smell that?” My friend’s eyes lit up as the irresistible aroma of frying chicken wafted through the air. Today, we’re diving into a dish that brings people together: Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken. This spicy fried chicken recipe is a joy to prepare and even more delightful to share. Using a tangy buttermilk marinade ensures each piece is tender and juicy, while a seasoned flour coating delivers that satisfyingly crispy texture we all crave. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or just indulging in some comfort food on a cozy night in, this recipe is your ticket to a crowd-pleasing feast. Ready to transform your kitchen into a Southern-style eatery? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this fried chicken a must-try?
Irresistible Aroma: As the chicken sizzles, your kitchen will fill with a mouthwatering scent that draws everyone in.
Flavor Explosion: The buttermilk marinade creates juicy chicken, while the blend of spices offers a delightful kick.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, this dish will impress friends and family alike, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces.
Versatile Options: Whether paired with creamy coleslaw or served in a spicy sandwich, the possibilities are endless! If you’re looking for similar flavor-packed recipes, try this Hot Orange Chicken for a unique twist.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps and ingredients, you’ll find this recipe both quick and accessible—ideal for home cooks of any level!
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Buttermilk – Provides moisture and tenderness to the chicken; you can substitute it with milk mixed with vinegar for a similar effect.
• Hot Sauce – Adds a spicy kick to the marinade; feel free to use a milder sauce if you prefer less heat.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances savory depth; substitute with fresh garlic for an even bolder flavor.
• Onion Powder – Imparts a subtle sweetness and aroma, rounding out the marinade.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds smokiness and vibrant color; regular paprika can be an alternative if needed.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the signature crispy coating; try gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Cornstarch – Boosts the crisp factor in the coating; it can be skipped if none are available.
• Ground Black Pepper – Offers a sharp kick to the seasoning mix.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for amplifying flavors; sea salt works as a great substitute.
• Cayenne Pepper – Packs heat; reduce the amount for a milder experience.
• Dried Oregano – Enhances the overall flavor profile with earthy undertones.
• Dried Thyme – Contributes a subtle herbal note to the mix.
• Ground Cumin – Adds warmth and depth to the overall spice blend.
• Chili Powder – Elevates flavor with a mix of spice and depth.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, etc.) – The star of the show! You can also use boneless cuts, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil – Necessary for frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture; canola or peanut oil are great alternatives due to their high smoke points.
Enjoy the journey as you prepare this Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken—it’s bound to become a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Pour 2 cups of buttermilk into a large mixing bowl and add 2-3 tablespoons of hot sauce for that signature kick. Whisk in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This buttermilk marinade will not only flavor the chicken but also tenderize it beautifully.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Submerge your chicken pieces—drumsticks, thighs, or wings—into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This step is crucial for achieving juicy and flavorful crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, chili powder, and kosher salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed. This seasoned flour will form the deliciously crispy coating for your chicken during frying.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. One piece at a time, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring a thorough coating on all sides. Gently shake off any excess flour to promote a light and crispy texture when frying.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1-2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small pinch of the flour mixture; it should sizzle immediately when ready for frying.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The sizzling sound and enticing aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken is almost ready.
Step 7: Drain and Rest
Once cooked, use tongs to transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help maintain the crispy texture. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will enhance its flavor and juiciness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once rested, your Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is ready to shine on the dinner table! Serve it hot with your favorite sides like creamy coleslaw or crispy French fries, and prepare yourself for an unbeatable flavor experience that everyone will love.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Room Temperature: Allow the fried chicken to cool completely before leaving it at room temperature for up to 2 hours to avoid any risk of bacterial growth.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Layer the pieces with paper towels to absorb moisture and maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool before freezing to preserve texture.
Reheating: To maintain the crispy coating when reheating, use the oven. Preheat to 350°F and warm the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Enjoy your flavorful crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken again!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken pieces are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade flavor without the time crunch! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing the juicy tenderness while saving you time on cooking day. Simply follow the marinating steps, then refrigerate covered. For the coating, prepare the dry ingredients and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to fry, dredge the marinated chicken in the pre-made mixture, fry until golden, and serve. Following these tips ensures your fried chicken remains just as delicious, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these customizations, turning this beloved fried chicken recipe into your personalized masterpiece!
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Boneless Chicken: Use boneless cuts like thighs or breasts for quicker cooking and easier eating. They’ll still remain juicy and flavorful!
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Heat Level Adjustments: Need it milder? Simply reduce the cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the marinade for a gentler spice kick.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the buttermilk marinade to enhance that herby depth of flavor, making every bite even more inviting.
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Breading Twist: For an extra crunchy coating, mix crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs into your flour mixture. This creates a delightful crunch!
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Flavorful Marinade Swap: Try replacing the buttermilk with yogurt mixed with a bit of water for a tangy twist that still tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
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Spicy Chicken Sandwich: Serve crispy chicken on a brioche bun with tangy slaw and spicy mayo for a lip-smacking sandwich option that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Crispy Spice Lovers: Don’t shy away from adding a sprinkle of your favorite spice blend or seasoning, like Cajun or Italian, for an adventurous flavor journey.
For more exciting twists, you might also enjoy my Hot Honey Chicken Bowl or the zesty Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak. Mixing and matching flavors in your kitchen can lead to delicious surprises!
What to Serve with Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
A delicious meal isn’t complete without the perfect sides to complement that finger-licking goodness!
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Creamy Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy side cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, balancing flavors perfectly.
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Crispy French Fries: Golden, crispy fries are a classic pairing that adds a satisfying crunch to every bite of chicken.
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Biscuit Heaven: Fluffy, buttery biscuits bring a comforting Southern touch, perfect for mopping up any leftover juices.
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Collard Greens: These tender greens bring a bit of earthiness and vibrant color, making a great accompaniment to fried chicken.
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Cornbread: Sweet and moist, cornbread is the ideal side to soak up flavors, adding sweetness to the spicy kick of the chicken.
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Pickles: The sharp, vinegary taste of pickles adds a zesty contrast and enhances the overall flavor experience.
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Sweet Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing drinks like sweet tea or chilled lemonade provide a lovely balance to the spicy chicken, perfectly quenching your thirst.
Elevate your meal by considering these delightful pairings; each side brings its own unique charm, ensuring every bite is an experience to remember!
Expert Tips for Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
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Marination Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight. This enhances tenderness and flavor in your crispy fried chicken.
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Oil Temperature: Keep a close eye on the oil temperature! Maintaining 350°F ensures even cooking and prevents greasy chicken. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches if necessary to prevent steaming. Stacking or overcrowding can result in a soggy coating instead of crispy perfection.
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Cooling Technique: Drain fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This allows air to circulate and maintain that irresistibly crispy texture.
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Reheating Tips: For leftovers, use the oven to reheat instead of the microwave. This keeps the coating crunchy while warming the chicken back up.
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Seasoning Variations: Feel free to spice things up! Adjust cayenne or add different spices to customize your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken to your taste.
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
How should I choose ripe ingredients for my crispy fried chicken?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken pieces, look for those with a bright pink color and no dark spots. For buttermilk, make sure it’s fresh and not expired, as it’s essential for tenderizing the meat. Fresh spices will also create a richer flavor profile, so check their freshness!
How do I store my leftover crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken?
Very important! After allowing the fried chicken to cool completely, place it in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to layer the pieces with paper towels to absorb moisture. Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 days; just reheat in the oven to keep it crispy!
Can I freeze crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, let your fried chicken cool thoroughly, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. You can safely store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label it with the date for proper tracking!
What should I do if my fried chicken coating is soggy?
No worries! If you find your coating hasn’t stayed crispy, it might be due to a few reasons. Ensure your oil temperature is at 350°F before frying. Frying in smaller batches helps maintain oil temperature, preventing steam from saturating the coating. Additionally, drain the cooked chicken on a wire rack to avoid moisture build-up.
Is this crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken safe for my pets?
I recommend avoiding feeding this fried chicken to your pets, especially if it contains spices or ingredients like onion powder, which can be harmful to them. Stick to plain, unseasoned chicken if you wish to treat your furry friends!
Can I adjust the spiciness in my fried chicken?
Very much so! It’s all about your preference. You can easily reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce used in the marinade for milder flavors. Alternatively, play with different spice blends to find the perfect heat level that suits your tastebuds!
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken That Delivers Flavor Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour 2 cups of buttermilk into a large mixing bowl and add 2-3 tablespoons of hot sauce. Whisk in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt until smooth.
- Submerge the chicken pieces into the buttermilk mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cumin, chili powder, and kosher salt. Whisk until mixed.
- Remove the marinated chicken, dredge in the flour mixture ensuring all sides are coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, fry for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and rest for a few minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
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