Craving crispy, juicy chicken that rivals your favorite takeout but is healthier and made with love? Then look no further! This recipe recreates the deliciousness of Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken, a Trenton favorite, right in your own kitchen. It's surprisingly easy, quicker than you think, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend feast. This recipe is all about homemade cooking at its finest, resulting in a truly delicious dish. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Trenton comfort food, elevated!
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts – your choice!)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
- For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better.
- Make the spice blend: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Breading and Frying:
- Buttermilk soak: Pour the buttermilk into a shallow dish. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Bread the chicken: Dredge each buttermilk-soaked chicken piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. Shake off any excess flour.
- Fry the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. 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 Suggestions:
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Side Dishes: Serve your delicious Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad all complement this dish wonderfully.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy chicken that isn't properly cooked. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in 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.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or parsley.
- Baked Chicken: For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces and the amount of oil used. For a more accurate nutritional profile, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, as a general guideline, expect a serving to contain approximately:
- Calories: 350-450
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
This easy recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag. It’s a perfect quick dinner idea, a crowd-pleasing dish, and a testament to the joys of homemade cooking. Enjoy your Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken – Trenton style!