Kickin’ Fried Chicken

Kickin’ Fried Chicken

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with bold, kickin’ flavor! This fried chicken is perfectly seasoned, marinated for tenderness, and fried to golden perfection—ideal for family dinners or special treats.

Ingredients

Marinade

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
• 1½ lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or tenders)

Breading

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Frying

• Vegetable oil (enough for frying)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, brown sugar, salt, spices, and buttermilk.
   Add chicken and coat well.
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight for best flavor).
2. Prepare the Breading
   In a shallow bowl, mix flour and all breading seasonings.
3. Coat the Chicken
   Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
   Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing to help it stick.
4. Heat the Oil
   Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry the Chicken
   Fry chicken in batches, turning occasionally, for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
6. Drain & Rest
   Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels.
   Let rest for 5 minutes to stay crispy.
7. Serve Serve hot with fries, coleslaw, biscuits, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinate Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4