Are you craving a taste of the South? Then look no further! This recipe, inspired by the beloved Brenda Gantt and her incredible Facebook cooking videos, delivers crispy, juicy Southern fried chicken that's sure to become a family favorite. Brenda's recipes are known for their simplicity and delicious results, and this one is no exception. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and unbelievably tasty! It's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Let's dive into this easy recipe and bring some Southern charm to your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving extra crispy skin.
Step 2: Make the Dry Dredge
In a large shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
In a separate shallow dish, pour the buttermilk. Dip each chicken piece in the buttermilk, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres well. Repeat the process for a double dredge – this adds extra crispiness!
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of chicken dropped in sizzles immediately. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: An instant-read thermometer ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder to the flour mixture for extra heat.
- Herb it up: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the flour mixture for a more herbaceous flavor profile.
- Lemon pepper chicken: Replace some of the black pepper with lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Fat: Approximately 20-25g Protein: Approximately 25-30g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
This recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic Southern dish. It's a fantastic example of the simple yet flavorful homemade cooking that Brenda Gantt showcases so well. Enjoy this taste of the South, and don't forget to share your culinary creations! Happy cooking!