Crispy and juicy: the ultimate fried chicken recipe unveiled by today’s culinary experts

Craving that mouthwatering, crispy fried chicken? Look no further than the legendary recipe featured on the Today Show. This easy-to-follow guide will empower you to create the most delectable fried chicken that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Gather Your Essential Ingredients

To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon celery salt
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup vegetable oil

Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat Dry: Thoroughly pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This will help the breading adhere better.
2. Season Generously: In a large bowl, combine the flour and all the seasonings. Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour to coat them evenly.
3. Marinate in Buttermilk: Place the coated chicken in a separate bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This will tenderize the chicken and enhance its flavor.

Create the Perfect Breading

1. Remove Excess Buttermilk: After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and shake off any excess liquid.
2. Double Dip: Dip the chicken pieces back into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Fry to Golden Perfection

1. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully place a few chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Drain on Paper Towels: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels to absorb any excess grease.

Serve and Savor

Serve your delectable fried chicken immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and sides. Enjoy the crispy crunch, tender interior, and irresistible flavor that will make you the envy of any fried chicken enthusiast.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Chicken: The fresher the chicken, the better the flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
• Cook to Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Let It Rest: Allow the fried chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoned flour mixture.
• Herbed Fried Chicken: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of dried oregano or thyme into the seasoned flour.
• Gluten-Free Fried Chicken: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Crispy Fried Chicken: A Culinary Masterpiece

With the Today Show’s fried chicken recipe, you can effortlessly create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe will deliver crispy, juicy, and unforgettable fried chicken that will leave you craving more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long should I marinate the chicken in buttermilk?
A: For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.

Q: Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of a whole chicken?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts or thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Chicken breasts may cook faster, while thighs require a longer cooking time.

Q: How do I know when the fried chicken is cooked through?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).