Dooky Chase-Style Fried Chicken is a homage to the iconic New Orleans restaurant known for its rich culinary history and beloved Southern cuisine. This recipe captures the essence of Leah Chase’s legendary fried chicken with a perfectly seasoned, crispy crust encasing juicy, flavorful chicken. The secret lies in the well-seasoned flour and a buttermilk marinade that tenderizes the chicken, infusing it with a depth of flavor that makes each bite irresistible. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or any time you crave authentic Southern fried chicken, this recipe brings a taste of New Orleans to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds chicken pieces (a mix of thighs, drumsticks, and breasts)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons seasoned salt
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged in the buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the seasoned flour: In a large shallow dish, combine the flour, seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, white pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix well.
- Heat the oil: Fill a large cast-iron skillet or deep fryer with vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat the chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure an even coating. Shake off any excess flour.
- Fry the chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil, skin side down. Fry in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Drain and serve: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your Dooky Chase-Style Fried Chicken with classic Southern sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, or cornbread for a true taste of New Orleans culinary heritage.
