Get ready to transform your kitchen into a mouthwatering haven of Southern comfort with this irresistible Real Simple Fried Chicken recipe! Imagine biting into a piece of chicken so crispy, so perfectly seasoned, that it instantly transports you to a world of culinary bliss. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress your family or a fried chicken enthusiast searching for the holy grail of crispy goodness, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the coating adhere better.
- In a large bowl, pour in 1 cup of buttermilk. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Submerge the chicken thighs in the buttermilk, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if time allows. This marinating step will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the flour mixture. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of paprika, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- After marinating, remove the chicken thighs from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each thigh in the flour mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure a good coating. Shake off any excess flour and set the coated chicken aside on a plate.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, pour enough oil for frying (about 1/2 inch deep) and heat it over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small amount of flour into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the skillet, skin side down. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, fry in batches. Fry the chicken for about 7-10 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the fried chicken hot, with your choice of sides such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. Enjoy your delicious Real Simple Fried Chicken!
Tips
- Pat the chicken completely dry before marinating to ensure the crispiest possible coating.
- Don't rush the marinating process - letting the chicken sit in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds incredible flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Maintain consistent oil temperature (around 350°F) for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Let the chicken rest after frying to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- For extra crunch, you can double-dip the chicken by repeating the buttermilk and flour coating process.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible - it provides even heat distribution and creates the most incredible crispy crust.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
