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1 tablespoon garlic powder: For a subtle, savory flavor.
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust based on your spice preference for a little kick.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out all the flavors.
Vegetable oil for frying: Enough to fill your pan about an inch deep.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Grandma’s Fried Chicken
Ready to cook up some comfort? Follow these steps to create the perfect fried chicken:
Step 1: Soak the Chicken
Prepare the buttermilk bath: In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in 2 cups of buttermilk. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the buttermilk to work its magic, tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor.
Step 2: Season and Dredge the Chicken
Season the chicken: When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper.
Prepare the seasoned flour: In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and salt and black pepper to taste. Mix it well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Dredge the chicken: Take each piece of chicken and dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour, but make sure there’s enough to create that crispy crust.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat the oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about an inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil to reach around 350°F (use a thermometer to be sure). Proper oil temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispy exterior.
Fry the chicken: Carefully place the dredged chicken pieces into the hot oil. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed. Fry each piece for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Drain the chicken: Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on a wire rack over a baking sheet, or on a paper towel-lined plate. This keeps the chicken crispy by allowing the excess oil to drip off.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot: Arrange your beautifully crispy fried chicken on a serving platter and dig in while it’s still hot and crunchy. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy the taste of home.
Variations & Tips: Customize Your Fried Chicken
Nana’s Fried Chicken is fantastic as-is, but here are some ways to make it your own:
Spice It Up
Smoked Paprika: Swap the regular paprika for smoked paprika to add a rich, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken.
Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the flour mixture for an herby twist.
Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness
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