Craving that crispy, juicy, unbelievably delicious fried chicken you get at your favorite restaurant? Well, get ready to ditch the drive-thru and embrace the joy of homemade cooking with this recipe inspired by the legendary Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken, Danville style! This recipe delivers that same incredible flavor and texture, all from the comfort of your kitchen. It's easier than you think, making it a perfect addition to your quick dinner ideas and healthy meals repertoire.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough for about 4 servings. Adjust as needed for your family or gathering.
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts – your choice!)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
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For Frying:
- 3 cups vegetable oil (or your preferred frying oil)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat your chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving that extra crispy skin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Marinate and Bread:
- Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
- Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Then, dredge the buttermilk-soaked chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Repeat this process for even better flavor and texture.
Fry to Perfection:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Work in batches if necessary.
- Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until it's golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
- Let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful piece of chicken.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread – the possibilities are endless!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy skin: Double-fry the chicken! Fry for a shorter time initially, let it rest, then fry again for a few more minutes to achieve ultimate crispiness.
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or other spices like chili powder or smoked paprika to the flour mixture for a spicier kick.
- Herb it up: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Make it healthier: Bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it. Simply arrange the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 (depending on chicken piece size and oil absorption) Protein: ~35g Fat: ~25g Carbohydrates: ~20g
This Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken Danville-inspired recipe is a delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes. Enjoy the flavorful, crispy, and satisfying results of your homemade cooking efforts! It's a fantastic example of how delicious dishes can also be simple to prepare. From quick dinner ideas to satisfying weekend meals, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.