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Close-up of perfectly fried chicken pieces, showcasing a crispy golden-brown exterior.

Best Chicken 2025: Crispy Outside, Juicy Inside

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy and juicy chicken, suitable for various dietary needs. It's a comforting dish that everyone can enjoy.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 (4 pound) chicken cut into pieces
For the Coating
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for coating
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
For Frying
  • 2 quarts vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Tongs
  • Wire rack
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece generously in the flour mixture, pressing to ensure a good coating.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully place coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove chicken from the oil using tongs and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. For diabetic-friendly, ensure the flour blend is low in carbohydrates. This recipe can be adapted for oven baking by placing coated chicken on a baking sheet and baking at 400°F (200°C) for 35-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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