There’s nothing quite like the heated excitement in the kitchen when you’re preparing a meal that promises to impress. After a day filled with mundane fast-food choices, I decided it was time to elevate my dining experience. Enter my Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken—a dish that not only transforms humble chicken into something spectacular but also fills the air with an irresistible aroma that makes everyone in the house eager for dinner.
As I marinated the chicken in a comforting bath of buttermilk and spices, I could already envision family gatherings and lazy weekend feasts revolving around this flavorful masterpiece. The process may seem involved, but trust me, the end result—a crispy golden crust encasing juicy, tender meat—is worth every moment spent in the kitchen. If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser to liven up your dinner table, this spicy and savory fried chicken recipe is your ticket to comfort food bliss. Let’s dive in and create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why Love Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?
Crispy Marvel: This dish delivers a perfectly golden, crispy coating that’s simply irresistible!
Juicy Delight: Each bite reveals incredibly succulent chicken, infused with rich, spicy flavors.
Simple Process: With just a handful of ingredients, you can effortlessly elevate dinner without fuss.
Family Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe guarantees happy faces and empty plates.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that impresses every time!
If you want more creative ideas to accompany this dish, be sure to check out some of my favorite serving suggestions.
Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Buttermilk – Essential for marinating to tenderize chicken and infuse deep flavor.
• Hot Sauce – Adds spice and flavor depth; use more for an extra kick!
• Onion – Sliced to enhance the marinade’s flavor profile.
• Garlic Cloves – For aromatic flavor in the marinade; you can adjust the amount for a milder taste.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; can substitute with table salt but use less.
• Black Peppercorns – Adds a peppery note to the marinade; whole provides better flavor.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the crispy coating to achieve that satisfying crunch.
• Baking Powder – Helps create a lighter, crunchier texture in the coating.
• Garlic Powder – Deepens the flavor; essential for an extra savory touch.
• Paprika – Adds smoky layers; smoked paprika yields a rich, deep flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper – Delivers heat; adjust according to spice tolerance.
• White Pepper – Offers flavor complexity and a little heat; you can omit it if undesired.
• Black Pepper – For an additional seasoning kick; complements the other spices.
• Chili Powder – Enhances flavor with a mild heat; perfect for flavor layering.
• Celery Salt – Complements the chicken seasoning, enriching the overall profile.
• Dried Oregano, Basil, Thyme – These herbs add aromatic notes to the seasoning blend.
For the Chicken
• Whole Chicken – Cut into 10-12 pieces; you can use pre-cut chicken parts for convenience.
• Eggs – Provide a rich base for the egg wash, aiding in flour adherence.
For Frying
• Cooking Oil – Needed for deep-frying; any neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best for that crispy finish.
Gather these ingredients for your Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
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Marinate Chicken: In a resealable bag, combine buttermilk, sliced onion, sliced garlic, hot sauce, kosher salt, and black peppercorns. Add the chicken pieces, seal the bag, and refrigerate for 12-24 hours to infuse flavors.
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Prepare Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, white pepper, black pepper, chili powder, celery salt, dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Set aside.
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Remove and Season Chicken: After marinating, take the chicken out of the buttermilk mixture and let excess liquid drip off. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mix on both sides for a flavorful base.
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Prepare Flour Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and the remaining seasoning mix until well combined.
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Coat Chicken: Add the flour mixture to a resealable bag. Place the seasoned chicken pieces inside, seal the bag, and shake gently until all chicken pieces are thoroughly coated.
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Make Egg Wash: In a bowl, whisk the eggs until pale and creamy. Stir in a bit of buttermilk, hot sauce, and garlic powder to create the egg wash.
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Double-Dip Chicken: Dip each coated chicken piece into the egg wash, shaking off any excess. Return it to the flour bag for a second coating to ensure crispy perfection.
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Heat Oil: In a deep dutch oven, heat the cooking oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy, ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying.
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Fry Chicken: Fry the chicken pieces in batches for 13-16 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown. Dark meat may require additional time. Maintain oil temperature for an even fry.
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Drain Chicken: Place the cooked chicken on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping them crispy.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the fried chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before serving, making sure those juices are sealed in.
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?
Transform your comfort food night into an unforgettable family feast with these delightful pairings.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes is a perfect contrast to the crispy chicken, making each bite a delightful experience.
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Tangy Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the fried chicken, bringing a burst of flavor to your plate.
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Cornbread Muffins: Soft, sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the spicy chicken, soaking up those savory juices for a satisfying bite.
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Cajun Mac and Cheese: Indulge your taste buds with this cheesy and flavorful dish that complements the savory spiciness of the chicken while providing rich textures.
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Garlic Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed with garlic offer a crisp, light side that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken and keeps the meal vibrant.
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Pickles or Jalapeños: A side of tangy pickles or fiery jalapeños adds a delightful kick that enhances the flavors of the chicken, creating a harmonious combination.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A sweet and juicy fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the meal with natural sweetness and a touch of acidity.
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Lemonade or Sweet Tea: Quench your thirst with a glass of homemade lemonade or sweet tea, both offering refreshing flavors that pair perfectly with the spicy, crispy chicken.
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken pieces wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, allowing it to regain its crispiness without drying out.
Marinating: If you have extra marinade leftover, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember not to reuse it for chicken unless it’s cooked first!
Make Ahead Options
These 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, which not only infuses deep flavor but also ensures juicy tenderness. Additionally, the seasoning mix can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the quality, seal the marinated chicken in a resealable bag, leaving out excess air to prevent spoilage. When you are ready to fry, simply remove the chicken from the marinade and follow the remaining steps for a delicious, stress-free meal, sure to impress family and friends with minimal effort!
Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations to make this dish your own!
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Heat Levels: Adjust spice levels by using a milder hot sauce or even BBQ sauce for a different flavor experience.
Spice is key to this dish, but not everyone loves the heat. A milder option can make for a family-friendly version! -
Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a mixture of almond milk and lemon juice for a dairy-free alternative.
This changes not only the moisture content but can also provide a subtle nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully. -
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the marinade to create a fragrant twist.
The earthy flavors of herbs can enhance the overall bouquet of the dish, turning each bite into an experience! -
Flour Alternatives: Use gluten-free flour or cornmeal for a crispier texture in the coating without the gluten.
This works wonderfully while keeping the crunch that we all love about fried chicken! -
Flavor Boosters: Incorporate spices like smoked paprika or even a hint of cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
These spices not only provide warmth but create an unexpected depth that keeps diners curious about the ingredients. -
Extra Crunch: Add crushed cornflakes or panko to the flour mixture for an ultra-crispy finish!
This creates an exciting texture contrast, elevating your fried chicken to a new level of crunch! -
Smoky Twist: Infuse your marinade with some chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy kick!
The smokiness brings a new layer of complexity, making this fried chicken unforgettable.
Experiment with these variations and discover how a little change can make a classic feel brand new!
Expert Tips for Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken
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Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 12 hours. This enhances tenderness and flavor, ensuring a juicy result.
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Coat Evenly: Make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken in both the seasoning mix and flour. A well-coated chicken guarantees that crispy texture you’re after!
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Oil Temperature Check: Always use a thermometer to keep your oil at 350°F. This prevents greasy chicken and ensures a perfectly fried exterior.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken in batches, leaving enough space around each piece. This helps maintain oil temperature, leading to even cooking and crispiness.
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Resting Time: Allow the fried chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This lets the juices settle, resulting in a more delicious bite.
Perfect the art of making Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken with these handy tips!
Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right buttermilk for my marinade?
Absolutely! Choose full-fat buttermilk for the best flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find it, a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk can serve as an effective substitute—just blend equal parts until smooth to achieve a similar consistency.
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What’s the best way to store leftover fried chicken?
Very simple! After allowing the fried chicken to cool, place it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist while preserving its crispy texture, so you can enjoy it again!
Can I freeze cooked Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken?
Of course! To freeze, individually wrap each fried chicken piece in foil or place them in an airtight container. This ensures that the chicken maintains its quality for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if my coating doesn’t get crispy?
Don’t worry! If your coating isn’t crispy, check your oil temperature. It should be maintained at 350°F during frying. If it’s too low, the chicken won’t fry correctly. For the best results, use a thermometer to ensure consistent heat—this is key to achieving that golden, crunchy exterior.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, make sure your hot sauce and any other spices used are certified gluten-free. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic!
Is it safe to use the leftover marinade?
Great question! You can save leftover marinade in the fridge for up to 2 days, but remember it’s important to cook it before using it on any other food. This ensures safety, as it contains raw chicken juices. Alternatively, you can use it for basting during grilling for added flavor!
Crispy Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Everyone Will Love
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- In a resealable bag, combine buttermilk, sliced onion, sliced garlic, hot sauce, kosher salt, and black peppercorns. Add the chicken pieces, seal the bag, and refrigerate for 12-24 hours to infuse flavors.
- In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, white pepper, black pepper, chili powder, celery salt, dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Set aside.
- After marinating, take the chicken out of the buttermilk mixture and let excess liquid drip off. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mix on both sides for flavorful base.
- In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and the remaining seasoning mix until well combined.
- Add the flour mixture to a resealable bag. Place the seasoned chicken pieces inside, seal the bag, and shake gently until all chicken pieces are thoroughly coated.
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs until pale and creamy. Stir in a bit of buttermilk, hot sauce, and garlic powder to create the egg wash.
- Dip each coated chicken piece into the egg wash, shaking off any excess. Return it to the flour bag for a second coating.
- In a deep dutch oven, heat the cooking oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the chicken pieces in batches for 13-16 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown.
- Place the cooked chicken on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Allow the fried chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before serving, making sure those juices are sealed in.
- Optional: Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick!