How to Make the Best Spicy Fried Chicken – A Southern Classic Recipe

Are you a chicken lover? Do you want to try something new and spicy? If yes, then you are in the right place. In this article, we will guide you on how to make a mouth-watering Spicy Southern Fried Chicken that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, and the result will be a juicy and crispy chicken with a spicy kick.

Introduction

Southern Fried Chicken is a classic dish that originated in the southern United States. The dish consists of chicken that is battered and fried until crispy and golden brown. The Spicy Southern Fried Chicken recipe adds a twist to the classic recipe by adding a spicy kick to the batter.

Ingredients

To make this Spicy Southern Fried Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of chicken (cut into pieces)
• 2 cups of buttermilk
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of paprika
• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon of onion powder
• 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper
• 1 quart of vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

Follow these steps to make the perfect Spicy Southern Fried Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, pour in the buttermilk and add the chicken pieces. Mix well, making sure that all pieces are coated in buttermilk. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Take each chicken piece out of the buttermilk and coat it well in the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour and place the chicken pieces in the hot oil.
5. Fry the chicken for about 10-15 minutes on each side or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain off any excess oil.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy your Spicy Southern Fried Chicken!

Tips to Make the Best Fried Chicken

• Use a deep frying pan with high sides to avoid splatters and keep the oil at a consistent temperature.
• Make sure that the chicken is completely coated in the flour mixture to ensure an even and crispy crust.
• For an extra crispy crust, double coat the chicken by dipping it in the buttermilk and flour mixture twice.
• Do not overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken as this will lower the oil temperature and make the chicken greasy.

Serving Suggestions

Spicy Southern Fried Chicken can be served with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, or corn on the cob.

Health Benefits of Chicken

Chicken is a great source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals such as niacin, phosphorus, and vitamin B6. It is also a good source of selenium, which is important for thyroid function and immunity.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.
2. Can I use a different type of oil for frying? Yes, you can use any type of oil for frying. However, vegetable oil is the best option as it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the chicken.
3. Can I make this recipe without the spice? Yes, you can omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount to make it less spicy.
4. Can I use a different type of milk instead of buttermilk? Yes, you can use regular milk or a milk substitute such as almond milk. However, buttermilk is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
5. How can I store leftover fried chicken? Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Conclusion

Spicy Southern Fried Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. By following these simple steps and tips, you can make the perfect Spicy Southern Fried Chicken that is juicy, crispy, and packed with flavor. So, gather your ingredients and start cooking this tasty dish today!