James Beard Fried Chicken Recipe
The James Beard Fried Chicken Recipe is crispy, juicy and full of comfort. It feels classic and special at the same time.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Soak the chicken
- Place chicken pieces in a bowl. Pour buttermilk over them. Cover and rest in fridge for four hours.
Prepare the coating
- Mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne and garlic powder in a shallow dish until evenly blended.
Coat the chicken
- Remove chicken from buttermilk. Let excess drip off. Coat each piece fully with the seasoned flour mix.
Heat the oil
- Pour oil into skillet. Heat on medium until oil reaches about 350°F for safe and even frying.
Start frying
- Place chicken gently into hot oil. Do not crowd the pan. Fry until golden brown on one side.
Turn the chicken
- Flip pieces carefully using tongs. Cook until the second side becomes crisp and deep golden.
Check doneness
- Use a thermometer to check inside. Chicken should reach 165°F for safe eating.
Rest before serving
- Remove chicken and place on paper towels. Let rest five minutes to keep juices inside.
Notes
- Use buttermilk for tender chicken
- Keep oil temperature steady
- Do not overcrowd the pan
- Rest chicken before serving
- Use a thermometer for safety