Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

6–8 pieces of bone-in chicken (legs, thighs, wings, or a mix)
2 cups buttermilk
2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Louisiana or Crystal)
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying:

4 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces, making sure each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a large shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. This dry mix will create the crispy outer crust.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour the vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet. Heat it to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the right temperature for even frying.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even crust. For extra crunch, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and dredge it in the flour mixture again for a double-coating.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place 2-3 pieces of chicken into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Use tongs to transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate up your crispy fried chicken with your favorite sides like mac and cheese, collard greens, cornbread, or mashed potatoes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 450
Sugar: 1g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g