Spicy Fried Chicken

Spicy Fried Chicken is the ultimate comfort food for those who love a kick of heat with their crispy, golden-brown chicken. This dish features juicy chicken pieces marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and buttermilk, then coated in a seasoned flour mixture before being deep-fried to perfection. The result is a crunchy, spicy crust that gives way to tender, flavorful meat inside. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or just because you’re craving something indulgent, Spicy Fried Chicken is sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys bold flavors and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or 8 bone-in chicken thighs/drumsticks)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a large, shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well. Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack and let them rest for 15 minutes to allow the coating to set.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the chicken pieces.
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure the juices redistribute. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, biscuits, or mashed potatoes.

Enjoy this Spicy Fried Chicken, where every bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of heat and flavor!