Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Fried Chicken Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this recipe while traveling through Asia, where street vendors were selling the most amazing fried chicken. After countless attempts, I've perfected my version of this dish, blending traditional techniques with my own twists. Each bite captures the essence of those bustling streets and reminds me of the joy that food can bring."

With over a decade of experience in Asian cuisine, Chef Mitchell has mastered the art of balancing flavors and techniques. His passion for creating delightful dinner recipes has earned him a reputation as a trusted expert in the culinary world. He loves sharing his knowledge and encouraging home cooks to explore the vibrant flavors of Asian dishes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Fried Chicken Delight served on a plate

Why This Crispy Fried Chicken Delight Recipe Works

What makes this Crispy Fried Chicken Delight special is the unique combination of spices and the double-coating technique that ensures maximum crunchiness. The use of buttermilk not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds depth of flavor to the dish. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for anyone looking to impress at dinner.

The technique of marinating the chicken in buttermilk before frying is key to achieving that tender, juicy center while maintaining a crispy exterior. By frying in small batches, you allow the chicken to cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown color that everyone loves.

💡 Professional Tip

For the crispiest chicken, ensure your oil is at the right temperature before adding the chicken. If the oil is too cold, the batter will absorb more oil and become soggy. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for perfect frying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it in the flour mixture a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated until you are ready to fry it. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to fry it just before serving.

If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will mimic the tangy flavor of buttermilk.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the exterior is golden brown and crispy. You can also cut into a piece to check that the juices run clear without any pink.

Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken after it has cooled completely. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it can last for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain its crispiness.

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for added flavor.

Crispy Fried Chicken Delight can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and flavor.

While you can prepare the chicken ahead of time, it’s best to fry it fresh for the crispiest results. However, if necessary, you can fry the chicken and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore some crispiness.

The best way to reheat fried chicken is in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore the crispiness, unlike the microwave, which can make it soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may become dry if overcooked.

Solution: To prevent drying out, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to ensure you don’t exceed the recommended internal temperature.

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn’t crispy, it might not have been coated properly or the oil temperature was too low.

Solution: Ensure an even coating of the flour mixture and maintain oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for perfect crispiness.

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can result in a tough texture.

Prevention: To avoid this, reduce the cooking time and ensure your oil is hot enough to cook the chicken evenly without burning the outside.

Undercooked Center

Problem: Undercooked chicken is unsafe to eat.

Recovery: If you suspect the chicken is undercooked, return it to the oil for a few more minutes and check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the heat is too high.

Prevention: Lower the heat slightly and fry in smaller batches to prevent burning while allowing the chicken to cook through.

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: To counteract excess saltiness, serve with a side of unsweetened yogurt or a mild dip.

Bland: If the chicken is bland, consider adding more spices to the flour mixture or marinating it longer.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Fried Chicken Delight

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Fried Chicken Delight

Key ingredients for this recipe include chicken, which is the star of the dish, and a mix of spices that add flavor and depth. The combination of flour and corn starch creates the perfect crispy coating that will have everyone craving more.

Quality matters in this recipe. Use fresh chicken and high-quality spices for the best flavor. The right oil for frying is also essential; choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for the best frying results.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: For the best results, opt for skin-on, bone-in chicken pieces. They stay juicier during cooking and offer a better flavor. Ensure they are at room temperature before frying for even cooking.
  • Flour Mixture: The mixture of flour and corn starch is crucial for creating a light, crispy coating. Corn starch helps to absorb moisture, making the crust extra crunchy. Combine them well and ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated.
  • Oil: Use oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil, for frying. This prevents the oil from breaking down and helps achieve that beautiful golden color. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.
Cooking process for Crispy Fried Chicken Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Frying chicken can be simple with the right technique. Begin by marinating the chicken to enhance its flavor and tenderness. The key to success is ensuring each piece is evenly coated in the flour mixture before frying.

Monitor the oil temperature closely and fry in small batches for the best results. This prevents the pot from cooling down too much, ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that coveted crispy exterior.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Fried Chicken Delight

The double-coating technique is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness. By coating the chicken in buttermilk and then dredging it in the flour mixture, you create a thick, crunchy layer that seals in moisture throughout the frying process. This technique guarantees a delicious contrast between the crunchy exterior and juicy interior.

Crispy Fried Chicken Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
    Low sodium preferred
  • 1 tbsp honey
    For sweetness
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
    Adjust to taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For coating
  • 1 cup corn starch
    For extra crispiness
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 2 tsp onion powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp paprika
    For color
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
    For some heat
  • 1 cup buttermilk
    For marinating
  • 1 egg, beaten
    For binding
  • Vegetable oil for frying
    For frying
  • Chopped green onions for garnish
    Optional
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
    Optional
  • Lemon wedges for serving
    For freshness

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with buttermilk and the beaten egg. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a separate bowl, mix the flour, corn starch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

  3. Coat the Chicken

    Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

  4. Heat Oil

    In a large frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  5. Fry the Chicken

    Carefully add chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 10-12 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.

  6. Drain the Chicken

    Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

  7. Garnish and Serve

    Garnish the fried chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with lemon wedges.

  8. Enjoy

    Enjoy the crispy fried chicken while it's hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Crispy Fried Chicken Delight, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Fried Chicken Delight is delicious served with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed bok choy, or a tangy cucumber salad. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful meal.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different spices to the flour mixture, such as curry powder for a unique twist. You can also try using different cuts of chicken, like thighs or wings, for varied textures.