Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game with a dish that’s both crispy and succulent? Look no further than this irresistible recipe for Chicken Fried Buttermilk Crispy. Picture this: juicy chicken breast fillets coated in a crunchy golden crust, served with a creamy homemade gravy that ties all the flavors together. It’s a taste of old-school diners right in your own kitchen.

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for Sunday family dinners or whenever you crave a hearty and satisfying meal. The secret to the tender and juicy chicken lies in the magic of buttermilk, which not only enhances the flavor but also locks in the moisture, ensuring each bite is as delicious as the last. As the chicken fries to a perfect crisp, the aroma fills your home with warmth and comfort, making it a mealtime favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this Chicken Fried Buttermilk Crispy recipe is sure to impress. The crunchy exterior combined with the creamy gravy is a match made in culinary heaven. So, roll up your sleeves, get that oil sizzling, and get ready to create a meal that will have your loved ones asking for seconds.

Quick Benefits

• Creates golden and crispy chicken with juicy, tender meat inside
• Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, locking in juiciness for a delicious result every time
• Homemade creamy gravy ties the dish together, adding a comforting touch
• Using a high smoke point oil ensures a crispy exterior without burning

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Recipe

• Golden and Crispy Perfection: Enjoy the delight of biting into golden, crispy chicken that is juicy and tender on the inside, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.
• Nostalgic Southern Comfort: Experience the nostalgia of old-school diners and classic Southern comfort food right in your own kitchen, perfect for a cozy Sunday family dinner or whenever you crave something hearty and delicious.
• Creamy Homemade Gravy: The creamy homemade gravy that accompanies the chicken ties all the flavors together, elevating the dish and making it even more indulgent and delicious.
• Family Favorite: This recipe is a hit with families, offering an indulgent and fuss-free meal that is sure to please everyone. It has even been known to bring back fond memories and garner rave reviews from loved ones.
• Buttermilk Magic: Buttermilk plays a crucial role in making the chicken incredibly tender and juicy while locking in flavor. It adds a unique touch that enhances the overall texture and taste of the dish.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily adapt the recipe by using alternative ingredients like different cuts of chicken or spicing up the coating to suit your preferences, allowing you to customize the dish to your liking.
• Perfect Pairings: This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, fresh green beans, buttery biscuits, or classic coleslaw, creating a well-rounded meal that balances richness with crunch and freshness.
• Homey and Filling: Rooted in tradition and beloved across the South and Midwest, this dish carries the essence of home-cooked meals that are filling, affordable, and bursting with layers of flavor, making it a favorite for generations.
• Maintain Crispiness: Follow the tips provided in the recipe to retain the chicken’s crispiness, such as draining on paper towels and using a wire rack in a warm oven before serving, ensuring you enjoy that perfect crunch with every bite.

Ingredients for Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

For the Chicken

• 480 g plain flour
• 360 ml buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Neutral oil, for deep frying
• 1 large egg
• 6–8 thinly sliced chicken breast fillets
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon fine salt

For the Gravy

• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 480 ml whole milk
• 60 ml reserved frying oil
• 45 g plain flour

Pro Tips for Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

To achieve the perfect crispy texture, make sure to drain the fried chicken on paper towels and then transfer it to a wire rack in a warm oven before serving. This step helps retain the crispiness of the coating.

For a flavorful and tender chicken, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Maintaining the oil at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that golden crunch.

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can create a substitute by combining one cup of regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. This trick will help tenderize the chicken and add a tangy flavor to the dish.

How to Make Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Heat Oil

Add enough neutral oil to a deep fryer or large heavy-based pan to fill it several centimeters deep. Heat the oil to 165°C.

Step 2: Prepare Seasoned Flour

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl, whisking until blended.

Step 3: Mix Buttermilk Coating

Whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce in a separate bowl until well combined.

Step 4: Dredge Chicken

Coat chicken breasts in seasoned flour, dip in buttermilk, then coat again in flour mixture, pressing firmly.

Step 5: Fry Chicken

Place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 3–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Fry in batches if needed, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 6: Prepare Gravy

In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, heat 60 ml of reserved frying oil. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until blended.

Step 7: Finish Gravy

Whisk in the milk slowly, stirring constantly until thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

Drizzle the warm gravy over the fried chicken and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

To store the finished dish, place any leftover chicken fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, it is best to use a toaster oven or regular oven on a wire rack to help maintain the crispiness of the crust. Avoid microwaving the chicken, as it can make the coating soggy. Store the gravy separately in a different container and reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk and whisking until smooth.

For optimal results, drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil, then transfer it to a wire rack in a warm oven to retain its crispiness before serving. Using a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, will help achieve that golden, crispy exterior on the chicken. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by combining regular milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Pressing the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken and avoiding overcrowding the pan during frying will ensure a well-coated and crunchy finish. Whisk the flour and oil thoroughly before gradually adding the milk to create a creamy gravy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a buttermilk substitute by combining one cup of regular milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for five minutes. This replacement will still give your chicken a tender and juicy texture. Additionally, if you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts, keeping in mind they may require slightly longer cooking time.

For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or extra hot sauce to the egg mixture to enhance the flavor of the crispy coating. This adjustment can cater to those who enjoy a bit of heat in their fried chicken. Remember to adjust the amount according to your preference to achieve the desired level of spiciness.

When deep-frying the chicken, it is essential to use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. This type of oil helps achieve a crispy and golden exterior on the chicken. It’s important to drain the fried chicken on paper towels and then place it on a wire rack in a warm oven before serving to retain its crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning this classic comfort food into a fun appetizer by cutting the chicken fried chicken into bite-sized pieces and serving them on skewers with a side of creamy gravy for dipping. This presentation is perfect for parties or gatherings where guests can enjoy a taste of Southern comfort in a convenient and delicious way.

Another creative idea is to deconstruct the chicken fried chicken by layering the crispy chicken fillets with mashed potatoes and drizzling the creamy gravy on top for a visually appealing and indulgent dish. This elegant presentation elevates the classic flavors of the dish while providing a unique dining experience for special occasions or family dinners.

FAQs for Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk by adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for five minutes before using it in the recipe.

How can I keep the chicken crispy when reheating leftovers?

To maintain the crispiness of the chicken when reheating leftovers, it is recommended to use a toaster oven or regular oven on a wire rack. Avoid microwaving the chicken as it can make the crust soggy.

Which type of oil is best for deep frying the chicken?

For deep frying the chicken, it is best to use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils will help achieve a golden, crispy exterior on the chicken.

Any tips for ensuring the coating stays on the chicken while frying?

Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken before frying to help it adhere better. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan as it can cause the coating to detach. Cook the chicken in batches if needed for best results.

Conclusion

As you finish making this Chicken Fried Buttermilk Crispy recipe, take a moment to appreciate the love and warmth you’ve poured into creating this delicious dish for your loved ones. The crispy exterior and succulent chicken inside are sure to bring smiles around your dining table, creating lasting memories with every bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying your hand at Southern comfort food for the first time, remember that the heart and soul you infuse into your cooking are what truly make a meal special. Embrace the process, enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen, and savor the satisfaction of serving up a homemade classic like Chicken Fried Buttermilk Crispy. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and relish in the joy of sharing a comforting meal that nourishes both body and soul. Enjoy every bite of this timeless dish, and may it become a cherished tradition in your family for years to come.