My Mom Made Sunday Dinner | EXTRA Crispy Fried Chicken

Ah, Sunday dinner—a cherished tradition in many households. For me, it meant the intoxicating aroma of crispy fried chicken wafting through the kitchen, and the warm love of family gathered around the table. Today, I’m thrilled to share my mom’s secret recipe for EXTRA crispy fried chicken that captures the essence of those delightful Sunday evenings. If you’re searching for the best fried chicken recipe, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s dive right in and discover how to make this culinary masterpiece that’s bound to impress everyone.

The Soul of Sunday Dinner

Why is fried chicken so beloved? Beyond its crunchy exterior and juicy interior, it has this incredible ability to evoke memories. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck with friends, or a cozy evening at home, this dish is the star of the show. The crispiness is the highlight, and learning how to make EXTRA crispy fried chicken will surely elevate your cooking game. Grab your apron—let’s get started!

Ingredients

To create this easy crispy fried chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, and breasts) – about 3-4 pounds
• Buttermilk – 2 cups (this is the secret for juicy, tender meat)
• All-purpose flour – 2 cups
• Cornstarch – 1 cup (this adds to the crispiness!)
• Salt – 2 teaspoons
• Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon (smoked paprika adds a unique flavor)
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
• Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
• Cayenne pepper – ½ teaspoon (optional, for a kick)
• Vegetable oil – for frying

Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the instructions for this delicious fried chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   Start by placing your chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, making sure they are fully submerged. This step not only tenderizes the meat but adds moisture. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better!).

2. Prepare the Coating:
   In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

3. Dredge the Chicken:
   Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture until fully coated. For that extra crispy fried chicken, gently press the flour onto the chicken.

4. Heat the Oil:
   Pour at least 2 inches of vegetable oil into a large cast-iron skillet or deep pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until a thermometer reads 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry the Chicken:
   Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil skin-side down, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 10-14 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

6. Drain and Serve:
   Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

Looking to make this easy recipe for fried chicken your own? Here are some helpful tips and fun variations to consider:

• Add Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a sprinkle of parsley can elevate your chicken’s flavor.
• Spicy Twist: For an extra spicy version, add more cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.
• Baked Option: If you prefer a lighter version, try baking the coated chicken at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Accompaniments: Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Wrap-Up

There you have it—the ultimate guide to creating EXTRA crispy fried chicken that’s perfect for any occasion, especially Sunday dinner! Your family will be asking for seconds, and it’s so easy to make. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let us know how it turned out! Share your fried chicken adventures in the comments below. 🍗✨