Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken
Indulge in this Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken, where every bite offers a delightful crunch coupled with a tantalizing heat that singes the taste buds just right. Marinated in a robust blend of spices, this chicken is tender, juicy, and topped off with a fiery hot sauce that elevates the dish to new heights of flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or a weekend treat, this recipe ensures that every piece of chicken is a star on your table. Experience the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick that will leave everyone craving more!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Paprika
4 teaspoons (ground)
Cayenne pepper
to taste (ground)
Brown sugar
4 tablespoons (packed)
Lemon pepper seasoning mix
4 tablespoons (mix)
Salt
to taste (seasoning)
Buttermilk
2 cups (liquid)
Extra large eggs
8 (beaten)
Flour
4 cups (all-purpose)
Chicken
4 lbs (any section, cut into pieces)
Hot sauce
to taste (for coating)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt. Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken pieces until evenly coated.
2
Cover the marinated chicken and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3
Prepare your breading station by setting up three bowls: one containing the buttermilk, one with the eggs, and one with the flour.
4
Dip each marinated chicken piece in the buttermilk, ensuring it's well coated. Then, transfer it to the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off before finally dredging it in flour for a thick, crunchy coating.
5
In a large, deep skillet, heat oil to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Fry the chicken in batches for approximately 15 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Use a thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
6
Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on paper towels.
7
Finally, toss the crispy chicken in your favorite hot sauce before serving to add an extra layer of heat.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken?
It is a flavorful dish featuring chicken marinated in a spice rub, breaded for a thick crunch, and finished with a spicy hot sauce coating.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight in the refrigerator.
What temperature should the oil be for frying?
The oil should be heated to a consistent temperature of 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
How long does the chicken need to fry?
The chicken should be fried in batches for approximately 15 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown.
What is the safe internal temperature for fried chicken?
Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Can I use any part of the chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use 4 lbs of any chicken section, such as breasts, thighs, or wings, cut into pieces.
What ingredients are in the spice rub?
The rub consists of paprika, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt.
What is the purpose of the buttermilk?
Buttermilk is used in the breading station to help the flour adhere and create a thick, crunchy texture.
How many eggs are required for the breading?
This recipe requires 8 extra large eggs, beaten, for the coating process.
How much flour is needed?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of all-purpose flour to provide a substantial breading.
When do I add the hot sauce?
Toss the chicken in your favorite hot sauce after it has been fried and drained on paper towels.
Why is brown sugar included in the rub?
Brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness that balances the heat and aids in the caramelization of the crust.
How do I set up the breading station?
Prepare three separate bowls: one with buttermilk, one with beaten eggs, and one with flour.
Should I fry all the chicken at once?
No, fry the chicken in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping, ensuring a crispy result.
How do I prevent the chicken from being too greasy?
Drain the fried chicken on paper towels immediately after removing it from the oil.
Can I adjust the heat level?
Yes, you can adjust the cayenne pepper in the rub and the type of hot sauce used for coating to suit your preference.
Is lemon pepper seasoning necessary?
Lemon pepper provides a zesty flavor that complements the spicy elements; 4 tablespoons are recommended.
What type of paprika should be used?
The recipe specifies 4 teaspoons of ground paprika for color and flavor.
What should I do if I don't have extra large eggs?
You can use large eggs, though you may need to increase the count slightly to ensure you have enough for the 4 lbs of chicken.
Can this be made in a deep fryer?
Yes, as long as you maintain the oil at 325 degrees F and follow the timing for internal safety.
How much chicken does this recipe accommodate?
The measurements provided are designed for 4 pounds of chicken.
Does the flour need to be seasoned?
The primary seasoning is in the rub applied directly to the meat, but you can add extra salt to the flour if desired.
How do I get the thickest coating?
The sequence of buttermilk, then egg, then flour creates a multi-layered, extra crunchy exterior.
What kind of oil should I use?
Use a high-smoke point oil suitable for deep frying, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Can I use frozen chicken?
The chicken should be completely thawed and patted dry before applying the spice rub for the best adhesion.
Is this recipe considered southern cuisine?
Yes, it follows traditional southern-style frying techniques including the use of buttermilk breading.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Can I skip the marination step?
While possible, marinating for at least 2 hours is crucial for the spices to penetrate the meat effectively.
What is the role of cayenne pepper?
Cayenne pepper provides the foundational 'tantalizing heat' mentioned in the recipe description.
How many servings does this make?
With 4 lbs of chicken, this typically serves 4 to 6 people depending on the pieces used.