Master the art of buttermilk-free fried chicken: an easy guide

Are you craving mouthwatering fried chicken but don’t have buttermilk on hand? Fret not! This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating crispy and flavorful fried chicken without buttermilk.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Create the Seasoning: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour and toss to coat thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain and Rest: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
7. Enjoy: Serve the crispy fried chicken hot with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken:

• Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken will yield the best flavor and texture.
• Season the flour generously: The seasoning mixture is crucial for the chicken’s flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your taste.
• Fry at the right temperature: The oil temperature is essential for achieving crispy chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Frying too many pieces at once will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
• Cook the chicken thoroughly: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Variations:

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.
• Lemon-Herb Fried Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon dried thyme, and the zest of 1 lemon to the seasoning mixture.
• Honey-Glazed Fried Chicken: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup water, and 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Bring to a simmer and glaze the fried chicken before serving.

Information You Need to Know

• Can I use chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly (breasts: 8-10 minutes per side, thighs: 10-12 minutes per side).

• How can I make sure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking it?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).

• What sides go well with fried chicken?

Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, green beans, and biscuits are all classic sides that pair well with fried chicken.