Ingredients:

  • 1 (1.5-2kg) whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (US: 3-4 lbs)
  • 4 cups (950 ml) Buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) Hot sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot), optional
  • 3 cups (360g) All-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons (24g) Cornstarch (Cornflour, UK)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Paprika
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) Cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
  • 4 cups (950 ml) Vegetable oil or Peanut oil, for frying

Instructions:

  1. Cut chicken into 8 pieces. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce (if using).
  2. Submerge chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
  3. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  4. Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere. Dredge it a second time. Set aside on a wire rack for 15 minutes while the oil heats.
  5. In a large cast iron skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 325°F (160°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  6. Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (fry in batches).
  7. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side for smaller pieces (wings, thighs), and 8-10 minutes per side for larger pieces (breasts, drumsticks), until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove chicken from the oil and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This Southern belle fried chicken recipe is now ready to be served!