The moment I think of French Fried Chicken, I’m transported back to family gatherings where the air was filled with the enticing aroma of crispy chicken frying away in the kitchen. Growing up, my grandmother always made the best fried chicken, and she had this magical way of making every piece perfectly golden and crunchy. I can still hear the sizzle as she carefully placed each piece into the hot oil, and the anticipation of the first bite was always palpable. This dish became a staple at our family events, bringing everyone together for laughs, stories, and delightful conversations over a plate of this crispy goodness. I can’t help but smile when I think of the joy it has brought, and I hope to share that experience with you through my version of French Fried Chicken.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Skillet

The Magic of This French Fried Chicken

It’s All About the Crunch

There’s just something about the crunch of French Fried Chicken that gets me every time. When you bite into that perfectly fried skin, it crackles, and the flavor explosion it delivers is absolutely irresistible. The golden crust is not just about texture; it’s the first indication that something delicious awaits.

A Soulful Tradition

Every bite of French Fried Chicken carries with it a history. For generations, families have gathered around the dinner table to enjoy this dish. It’s a tradition that transcends cultures and brings people together, making it more than just a meal—it’s a shared experience of love and comfort.

Flavorful Marinade

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk and spices is key to developing that incredible flavor. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat while infusing it with moisture, ensuring that every bite is juicy and packed with flavor. Trust me, this step is crucial and worth the wait!

Perfect for Any Occasion

What I love about French Fried Chicken is its versatility. Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a festive gathering, or a picnic in the park, this dish fits perfectly into any occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress!

Endless Pairing Possibilities

When it comes to sides, the options are endless! You can serve it with creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or even a fresh garden salad. Each pairing complements the chicken beautifully, creating a balanced meal that’s satisfying in every way.

Ultimate Comfort Food

At the end of the day, French Fried Chicken is the epitome of comfort food. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and soul, making it perfect for any night of the week or a special occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it!

What You’ll Need for French Fried Chicken

Cooking is all about the ingredients, and for French Fried Chicken, each component plays a vital role in crafting that unforgettable flavor. The combination of rich buttermilk, spices, and a crispy coating creates a harmony that’s irresistible. The key players in this dish are the chicken, which should be fresh and high quality, and the blend of seasonings that will elevate the taste to new heights.

1 whole skin-on chicken (cut into 8 or 10 pieces): A whole chicken provides the best flavor, and cutting it into pieces allows for even cooking and crispy skin all around.
1 3/4 cups buttermilk (430ml): The tanginess of buttermilk is essential for marinating, tenderizing the chicken while infusing it with flavor.
1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness that complements the other flavors beautifully.
2 teaspoons sea or kosher salt: Enhances the taste and helps to tenderize the chicken.
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides a kick of heat that balances the richness of the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne: For those who enjoy a little spice, cayenne adds just the right amount of warmth.
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (490g): The flour is the base for the crispy coating, giving the chicken that signature crunch.
1 cup cornmeal (140g): Adds texture and an earthy flavor that takes the coating to another level.
2 teaspoons sea or kosher salt: Seasoning is key to a flavorful crust.
Duck fat or canola oil: For frying, giving that delicious, rich flavor to the chicken.

Putting Together French Fried Chicken

Frying French Fried Chicken is a labor of love, but the results are absolutely worth it! Follow these steps for perfectly crispy and flavorful chicken. It’s a simple process, but trust me, the more care you take, the better the outcome will be!

Start by placing the chicken pieces in a zip-top bag. Add in the marinade ingredients: the buttermilk, Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and cayenne. Massage the mixture into the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
When you’re ready to fry, set up your work area with two wire racks placed over two baking sheets. In a large bowl or paper bag, mix together the flour, cornmeal, the remaining salt, and a generous amount of black pepper. This mixture will be the coating for your chicken.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk brine, allowing the excess marinade to drip off. Start coating each piece in the flour mixture, working a few pieces at a time. Ensure they are thoroughly coated and gently shake off any excess flour before placing them on one of the wire racks.
In a large, heavy skillet (a cast iron skillet works best), heat about 1 1/4 inches of duck fat or canola oil over medium heat. If you have a deep-fry thermometer, wait until the oil reaches 350ºF (180ºC).
Once the oil is hot, carefully place as many pieces of chicken as can fit in the pan without crowding. Make sure the skin side is down. The temperature of the oil may drop, but aim to keep it around 325ºF (162ºC) as you fry.
Fry the chicken until the bottom is beautifully browned. Use tongs to turn each piece over, frying until the other side is equally golden and crispy. The cooking time will be approximately 20 to 25 minutes total. To check if it’s done, cut into the thigh piece near the bone. If the juices run clear, it’s ready!
When finished frying, carefully remove the chicken pieces and allow them to rest on the wire rack. This helps to keep the crust crispy. Use a slotted spoon or strainer to remove any stray bits of chicken from the oil that could burn.
Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces. Make sure to monitor the oil temperature to maintain that perfect frying heat.
Once all the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will ensure the juices settle and make for an even juicier bite.

Things Worth Knowing

Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing your fried chicken to rest on a wire rack helps keep the crust crispy, preventing it from becoming soggy.
Oil Temperature Matters: Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial for achieving that golden brown crust. Too low, and the chicken will absorb too much oil, too high, and it can burn.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
Use a Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, a meat thermometer can help you ensure the inside has reached 165ºF (74ºC).

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some tips to make French Fried Chicken your own.

Storage: Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven to regain some of that crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze leftover fried chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
Spice It Up: Feel free to experiment with spices in the marinade and coating. Adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even some smoked paprika can elevate the flavor.
Healthier Version: Try baking the chicken instead of frying for a lighter option. Coat the chicken in the same flour mixture and bake at 400ºF (200ºC) until golden.
Serving Ideas: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Great Combinations for French Fried Chicken

The perfect meal deserves the perfect sides! Here are some fantastic combinations to enjoy with French Fried Chicken.

Coleslaw: A classic side that adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the fried chicken.
Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits served warm with butter make for a delightful pairing.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy are comfort food at its finest.
Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal veggies add a healthy touch and color to your plate.
Picnic Perfection: French Fried Chicken is great for picnics, served cold or at room temperature with your favorite picnic sides.
Casual Gatherings: This dish shines at casual get-togethers, perfect for sharing with friends and family alike.

FAQ

To achieve that perfect crispy texture in your French Fried Chicken, make sure to keep your oil at a consistent temperature. Frying at too low a temperature can lead to greasy chicken, while too high can burn the coating. Also, allow your chicken to rest after frying on a wire rack. This helps maintain the crispiness of the skin by preventing it from sitting in its juices.

Yes, while duck fat gives a rich flavor to your French Fried Chicken, you can use other oils like canola oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil. Each will provide a slightly different flavor and frying experience, but as long as the oil can handle high heat, it will work well.

Marinating the chicken for at least 8 hours is ideal, but you can certainly leave it longer—as much as 24 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated during that time. This is one of the key steps for making truly delicious French Fried Chicken.

There are many sides that pair perfectly with French Fried Chicken. Classic options include creamy coleslaw, buttery biscuits, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with seasonal vegetables, or even a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness of the chicken. Each of these sides brings something special to the meal.

Conclusion

French Fried Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition that brings people together. Its crunchy coating and juicy interior create a delightful experience that appeals to all ages. I encourage you to try making this dish—it’s not only satisfying to eat but also to prepare. Share it with family and friends, and watch as it becomes a new favorite at your gatherings!