Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that's both easy to make and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This recipe recreates the beloved Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken, a Cynthiana favorite, bringing that iconic taste right to your kitchen. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this recipe focuses on simple steps and maximum flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. Get ready to experience a taste of home, recreated with love and simplicity.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole fryer chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
- 1/2 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 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
Step 2: The Perfect Breading
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a separate shallow dish, pour the buttermilk.
Step 3: Dredging the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece in the buttermilk, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, dredge the buttermilk-coated chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks.
Step 4: Frying to Perfection
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 breading sizzles immediately upon contact. 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).
Step 5: Draining and Serving
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, like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
Cooking Tips for Extra Delicious Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Maintain oil temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Adjust the heat as needed to keep it consistently hot.
- 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:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Chicken: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary into the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Baked Chicken: For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This easy recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick dinner or a family gathering. Enjoy your homemade Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken! Let us know in the comments how your version turns out!