The moment your kitchen fills with the sizzling sound of chicken frying, you know something magical is about to happen. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe, a dish that perfectly balances a fiery kick with tender juiciness. Thanks to a tangy buttermilk marinade, this beloved comfort food ensures everyone gathers around the table, sharing and savoring each bite. Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it also brings a satisfying crunch to your plate that’s bound to impress family and friends. So, whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a feast for your next gathering, this fried chicken is an unbeatable choice. Are you ready to experience the joy of frying up your own batch? Let’s get started!
Why is Buttermilk Best for Fried Chicken?
Moisture Magic: A good buttermilk soak infuses the chicken with moisture, resulting in that juicy tenderness we all love.
Flavor Boost: The tangy richness of buttermilk also elevates the flavor, making every bite a delightful experience.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a barbecue with friends, this Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a guaranteed hit that invites seconds.
Versatile Base: Feel free to explore variations by adjusting the spices or adding a slather of your favorite hot sauce. For sides, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Bake is a fantastic pairing!
Quick Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll get dinner on the table in no time, perfect for those busy evenings.
Crispy Perfection: The combination of cornstarch and flour creates a coating that’s irresistibly crunchy, balancing the spicy kick beautifully!
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tenderizes the chicken. Substitution: Use yogurt thinned with milk if unavailable.
- Hot Sauce – Imparts heat and flavor depth. Substitution: Any hot pepper sauce can work.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor with a savory note.
- Onion Powder – Adds aromatic sweetness.
- Smoked Paprika – Contributes a rich, smoky flavor.
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates the crispy coating. Note: Can use gluten-free flour for a GF version.
- Cornstarch – Increases crunchiness of the coating.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds heat. Note: Adjust amount to taste for spice tolerance.
- Dried Oregano, Dried Thyme, Ground Cumin, Chili Powder – These spices build complexity in flavor.
For the Chicken
- Chicken – The star ingredient, can use pieces like drumsticks or thighs. Note: Boneless chicken can be used but requires shorter cooking time.
- Vegetable Oil – For frying, ensures a crispy texture. Note: Choose oils with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil.
This collection of ingredients is bound to give you that crispy, spicy buttermilk fried chicken you’ve been dreaming of!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a spacious mixing bowl, pour in the buttermilk and whisk in the hot sauce until combined. Then, add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir everything together well, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed. This flavorful marinade will enhance the taste of your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Submerge the chicken pieces into the buttermilk marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavors and tenderize, setting the stage for the most delicious crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken you can imagine.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
While your chicken marinates, grab another bowl and mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, cumin, and chili powder. Stir until all the dry ingredients are well-blended. This mixture will create the crispy coating that gives your fried chicken its signature crunch and spice.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess marinade to drip off. Next, dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Gently shake off any excess flour before placing the chicken on a plate, preparing it for frying. The more thorough the coating, the crunchier your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken will be.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about 1 inch of the bottom and heat it over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature, aiming for 350°F (175°C). Once the oil shimmers and bubbles gently when you dip in a piece of bread, it’s ready for frying your chicken.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken turns a gorgeous golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on the oil temperature to achieve that perfect crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken without burning.
Step 7: Drain and Rest
Once cooked, remove the chicken pieces from the oil and drain them on a wire rack or paper towels. Allow them to rest for a few minutes. This crucial step helps the coating stay crispy, as letting them sit prevents moisture build-up, ensuring your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken maintains that delectable crunch before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to soak up all those delicious flavors and tenderize beautifully. In addition, you can also prepare the coating mix ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain that sought-after crunch, avoid coating the chicken until you’re ready to fry it. When you’re set to cook, dredge the marinated chicken in the prepared flour mixture, fry it up, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, saving you precious time in the kitchen!
What to Serve with Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
The joy of a beautiful meal blossoms when you pair your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken with the right accompaniments that enhance flavors and textures.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy texture of coleslaw provides balance to the spicy kick, making each bite a delightful contrast. It’s a classic companion that adds a refreshing crunch.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and velvety, these mashed potatoes soak up the juices from the chicken, creating a comforting bite that’s hard to resist. The garlic elevates the flavor to new heights.
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Pickles and Jalapeños: A side of tangy pickles and spicy jalapeños adds a zesty crunch that sharpens the palate. They are the perfect bite-sized contrast to the rich, crispy chicken.
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Southern-Style Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread complements the spiciness of the chicken while serving as a delightful base to soak up any delicious juices.
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Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, fried green tomatoes add a Southern twist. Their slight tartness provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich flavors of the chicken.
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Sweet Tea or Lemonade: Sipping on a glass of sweet tea or refreshing lemonade brings a sweet, cooling element that’s delightful against the spicy chicken flavors.
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Warm Honey Butter Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits drenched in honey butter create an indulgent moment that pairs beautifully with the chicken’s crispy texture. A true Southern treat!
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Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie, with cinnamon-spiced flavors, makes the perfect sweet ending to this savory meal.
Let your table be a celebration of flavors, making your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken the star it truly is!
Storage Tips for Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Room Temperature: Enjoy your crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken within 2 hours of frying. After that, refrigerate to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the mouthwatering flavor while keeping the chicken juicy.
Freezer: If you’d like to keep your fried chicken longer, freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for optimal protection against freezer burn.
Reheating: To bring back that delightful crunch, reheat directly from the fridge or freezer in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chicken stays crispy and delicious!
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your fried chicken experience!
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Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference. Both mild and fiery options can delight different taste buds!
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Double Crunch: Add panko breadcrumbs to the flour mix for an extra crunchy coating. The texture difference makes every bite delightful!
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Zesty Lemon: Incorporate the zest of a lemon into the marinade for a citrusy freshness that brightens up the flavors beautifully. It’s like a sun-kissed hug for your chicken!
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Herbaceous Twist: Mix in fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch. This will not only enhance the flavor but add a lovely visual element.
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Southern Sandwich: Serve your fried chicken in a buttery brioche bun with pickles and slaw. It’s a classic mash-up that’s utterly delicious.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika in the coating for a deeper, smokier taste that complements the spice. Each bite will be a flavor bomb!
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Mild and Creamy: Swap out hot sauce for a creamy ranch dressing in the marinade for a more subdued flavor. Perfect for those who prefer something less fiery!
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Plant-Based Delight: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegan version that doesn’t skimp on taste. Just ensure to press them well for a firmer texture before marinating.
For those craving even more fried chicken inspiration, consider checking out my Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub or my Vegan Orange Chicken for delightful alternatives. Enjoy getting creative with these variations!
Expert Tips for Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
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Temperature Control: Monitor the oil temperature closely to prevent burning. Too hot can lead to a burnt crust while undercooked chicken remains soggy.
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Marinate Longer: For maximum tenderness and flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Short marinating times won’t allow the buttermilk to fully tenderize the meat.
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Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, work in batches to give each piece ample space. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in uneven cooking.
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Check for Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy and safe-to-eat crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken.
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Cooling Setup: Drain the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This keeps the bottom crispy and prevents steam from creating sogginess.
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of buttermilk should I use for the marinade?
Absolutely! Use fresh buttermilk for the best flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing one cup of plain yogurt with a little milk until smooth. This will provide a similar tangy flavor and help keep the chicken juicy.
How should I store leftover crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken?
To preserve the crunch, store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container, at room temperature for up to 2 hours after frying. If you have leftovers afterward, refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s covered to retain moisture but avoid leaving it too long as it may lose its crispiness.
Can I freeze crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken?
Yes! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely first. Then, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What can I do if the coating isn’t crispy enough?
If you find your coating isn’t reaching that desired crunch, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Monitor the temperature, keeping it around 350°F (175°C). Also, dredge the chicken evenly in the flour mix and allow excess to shake off. If necessary, try adding a touch more cornstarch to your flour mix next time for extra crispiness!
Is this recipe safe for those with dietary restrictions?
This crispy spicy buttermilk fried chicken can be modified to suit various diets! For gluten-free options, simply substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Be cautious with the hot sauce and spices—check for any allergens. If cooking for pets, remember to keep spices, especially garlic and onion, away from their meals, as they can be harmful. Always best to be safe and check ingredient labels!
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken That Will Wow You
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Marinade: In a spacious mixing bowl, pour in the buttermilk and whisk in the hot sauce until combined. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir everything together well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Submerge chicken pieces into the buttermilk marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, cumin, and chili powder. Stir until well-blended.
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess before placing on a plate.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover about 1 inch of the bottom and heat over medium-high, aiming for 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying in batches for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Drain and Rest: Remove chicken from the oil and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Allow to rest for a few minutes for the coating to stay crispy.