Crispy, Juicy Fried Chicken: A Homemade Classic

Craving that perfect piece of crispy, juicy fried chicken? Look no further! This classic Southern dish can be mastered with a few simple steps. Let’s dive in.  

Ingredients:

• Chicken pieces (your choice – thighs, drumsticks, breasts)
• Buttermilk
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper (optional)  
• Vegetable oil for frying  

Instructions:

1. Brine the Chicken (Optional):
   • For extra juicy chicken, soak the chicken pieces in a brine of salt and water for about an hour. This helps tenderize the meat.  
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
3. Make the Flour Mixture:
   • Combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a large bowl.
4. Create the Buttermilk Marinade:
   • Pour buttermilk into a separate bowl.  
5. Coat the Chicken:
   • Dip each piece of chicken in the buttermilk, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour.  
6. Rest the Chicken:
   • Let the coated chicken rest for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This helps the coating adhere better.
7. Heat the Oil:
   • Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep pot or Dutch oven to cover the chicken by about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).  
8. Fry the Chicken:
   • Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Drain and Serve:
   • Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.  

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken:

• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying.  
• Allow the oil to cool completely before discarding.
• Experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavor profile.

Enjoy your homemade fried chicken!