Are you craving that irresistible, crispy, juicy fried chicken you remember from your favorite restaurant? Forget the drive-thru! This recipe recreates the magic of Famous Recipe Chicken, bringing that delicious taste right to your kitchen. It's easier than you think, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. Get ready for a truly satisfying homemade meal that's both delicious and surprisingly simple. This recipe is a celebration of easy recipes, healthy meals (with adjustments!), and quick dinner ideas that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry: This is crucial for achieving a crispy crust. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry each piece of chicken.
- Marinate (optional): For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator. This helps tenderize the meat and adds moisture.
Coating and Frying:
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Fry the chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of chicken sizzles immediately when added. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving:
- Drain and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Maintain oil temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed to maintain a consistent temperature.
- Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for extra heat.
- Herbed Chicken: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the flour mixture for a more aromatic flavor.
- Baked Chicken: For a healthier option, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This homemade Famous Recipe Chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds! It’s a testament to the power of simple, delicious dishes and homemade cooking. This is one of the best recipes you'll find for easy, satisfying, and flavorful fried chicken.