The Best Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

This incredible buttermilk fried chicken recipe will be the only fried chicken recipe you use! Seasoned to perfection, this crispy chicken recipe is the best fried chicken recipe you will ever have!

Now I know it’s a lot for me to claim that THIS recipe is the perfect fried chicken recipe. It’s hard because so many other people make great recipes claims as well. Trust me I’d never lead you wrong when it comes to easy recipes!

Not only did the family love this great fried chicken they even loved it more than the chicken tenders that they adore so much. The crispy skin is super tasty from being in the seasoned flour dredge and fried in high heat oil in a heavy-bottom skillet. Getting the perfect temperature of the oil in the large pot is key!

How do I make this amazing fried chicken?

First you will be adding all seasonings to a bowl and mix well. Some folks use kosher salt, cayenne pepper, white vinegar, onion powder and hot sauce–but we won’t be needing any of that in today’s recipe.

Add bone in chicken, chicken thighs or chicken breasts (or whichever part of the chicken you prefer), buttermilk and half of the seasonings to a large bowl. Be sure to mix well in the buttermilk marinade and let soak in fridge for 1 hour. Add the remaining seasonings and cornstarch to a bowl with the flour.

Remove chicken from fridge after an hour and heat oil over medium high in a large deep skillet or cast iron. I used a 12-inch cast-iron skillet. Take chicken from buttermilk mixture and dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture. Remove excess flour. Be sure to fry the coated chicken by deep frying in small batches.

Test the vegetable oil or canola oil by sprinkling a little flour into the grease. If it does not sizzle the grease isn’t hot enough. It’s important you wait until the oil temperature comes up at medium high before adding the marinated chicken pieces.

Cook for 8-10 mins on the first side then turn chicken pieces for another 8-10 min on the second side. The larger pieces will need longer cook times for best results. The chicken will be golden brown in color. Test for doneness by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. More on that in the notes of the recipe. You can also use the dutch oven for a great crispy crust. This buttermilk chicken recipe is full of flavorful chicken and it makes the juiciest fried chicken!

Remove from the hot oil and let the pieces of chicken rest on paper towels in a single layer.  Whether you prefer white meat or dark meat, either one is great to use for this fried chicken!

It doesn’t take a long time to make a delicious crispy piece of chicken! Seal the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.

What are some helpful tips for making buttermilk fried chicken?

1. Make sure to use a heavy and non-stick skillet or deep fryer for frying your chicken.

2. Use buttermilk as the base of your marinade instead of just water, which will give the chicken a richer taste and texture.

3. Be sure to fully coat the chicken in the wet marinade and let it sit for at least an hour before frying.

4. When you’re ready to fry, use a heavy-duty oil such as vegetable or peanut oil – these oils can handle the high heat of deep frying better than other types of oils.

5. Heat the oil in your skillet or deep fryer to 350°F and test it by dropping a bit of the marinade in – if it bubbles up, the oil is hot enough.

6. Carefully drop your buttermilk-marinated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry for about 8 minutes or until golden brown on both sides.

7. Once the chicken is cooked all the way through, remove it from the oil and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

8. Serve with your favorite sides or sauces for a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!

Can you freeze this buttermilk fried chicken?

Yes, you can freeze buttermilk fried chicken. Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in an oven or microwave.

Be sure to let me know how much you love it! This crispy buttermilk crunchy chicken recipe has a five star rating for a reason!

Here are some more amazing chicken dinner recipes to try:

If you are looking for a complete list of dinner ideas be sure to check out Easy and Tasty Dinner Ideas For The Whole Family!