Craving that crispy, juicy, craveable chicken you remember from Lee's Famous Recipe? This recipe brings those classic Livonia flavors right to your kitchen. Forget the drive-thru – we’re making homemade Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken, and it's easier than you think! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. It’s a delicious dish, a healthy option when you use lean chicken, and an easy recipe even beginners will master. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and breasts)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). This is your dredging station!
Prepare the Chicken:
- Pour the buttermilk into a shallow dish. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, ensuring it's fully coated.
The Frying Magic:
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Dredge each buttermilk-coated chicken thigh in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Set the breaded chicken aside.
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Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of flour sizzles immediately.
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Carefully place the chicken thighs 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 thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more cayenne for extra heat or more paprika for a deeper color.
- Make it ahead: You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry it.
Variations:
- Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for an extra spicy twist.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
This Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Livonia in your own kitchen! Enjoy!