Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

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

❤️ My Recipe Story

"After traveling through Asia, I discovered the magic of flavorful fried chicken. I spent years perfecting this recipe, balancing spices and techniques to achieve that perfect crunch. Each batch of chicken tells a story of exploration and love for food, making it a family favorite. I am excited to share this recipe that brings joy to the dinner table."

Chef Mitchell has a deep passion for Asian cuisine and has been crafting dinner recipes for over a decade. His experience in different culinary traditions allows him to blend flavors beautifully. With over a thousand recipes created, his expertise shines in every dish he prepares.

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

Why This Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its unique marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor before it even hits the oil. The combination of spices creates a perfect balance of heat and taste that complements the crispy exterior. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and delicious.

Frying techniques are crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture. The oil temperature must be just right to ensure the coating crisps up without burning, while the chicken cooks evenly inside. This recipe covers all the bases for perfect results every time.

💡 Professional Tip

To enhance the crispiness of your fried chicken, try double-dipping. After the initial coating, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and coat it with flour again before frying. This extra layer will give you an even crispier texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to fry. However, it's best to fry the chicken fresh to maintain its crispy texture.

If you don't have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using it in the recipe.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is a deep golden brown. You can also cut into the thickest part of a piece to check if the juices run clear.

Yes, you can freeze the fried chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. Reheat it in the oven for best results.

Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken pairs well with coleslaw, steamed rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with dipping sauces like sriracha mayo or sweet chili sauce for added flavor.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again.

While you can marinate the chicken in advance, it's best to fry it just before serving to ensure maximum crispiness. You can prepare the flour mixture ahead of time as well.

The best way to reheat Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken is to place it on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps it crispy and warms it evenly.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may turn out dry if overcooked.

Solution: To prevent dryness, monitor the cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without exceeding it.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Sometimes, the coating may not crisp up properly.

Solution: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can lead to burnt or tough chicken.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, fry in smaller batches and check the internal temperature frequently.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Some pieces may come out undercooked, especially if they are thicker.

Recovery: If you find any undercooked pieces, return them to the oil for an additional few minutes until they are fully cooked through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside may burn while the inside remains uncooked.

Prevention: Lower the oil temperature slightly and ensure the chicken is not too thickly coated, allowing for even cooking.

✅

Flavor Balance

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

Too Salty: For overly salty chicken, serve with a side of rice to balance the saltiness.

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

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken

Key ingredients like chicken, buttermilk, and a blend of spices create a flavor explosion in every bite. The buttermilk not only adds moisture but also helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring it's juicy and flavorful. The spices add a kick of heat that makes this dish truly memorable.

Using high-quality chicken is essential for a delicious outcome. Fresh, organic chicken will yield better flavor and texture. Additionally, using fresh spices instead of old ones will enhance the overall taste of your crispy spicy fried chicken.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces as they provide the best flavor and juiciness. The skin crisps up beautifully, which is what you want for this dish.
  • Buttermilk: Buttermilk is essential for marinating as it helps to tenderize the chicken and adds a rich flavor. If you can't find buttermilk, remember it's easy to make your own.
  • Spices: Fresh spices make all the difference in this recipe. Make sure to check the freshness of your spices before using them to achieve the best flavor.
Cooking process for Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process is straightforward, yet it requires attention to detail. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk infuses flavor and moisture. The frying technique is key; maintaining the right temperature is crucial for crispy results.

By following the steps carefully, you can achieve a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside. Patience is key during the frying process to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken

The most important technique is to control the oil temperature. Frying at the right temperature prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil, ensuring that it remains crispy. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil and adjust the heat as needed.

Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
    Adjust for spice level
  • 1 tablespoon honey
    For sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
    For umami flavor
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
    Adds flavor
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    Enhances flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk
    For marinating
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce
    Adjust for spice
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    For coating
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
    For heat
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    For color
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying
    For cooking
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
    Optional
  • Lemon wedges for serving
    Optional

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken

    Combine the buttermilk and hot sauce in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for better flavor.

  2. Prepare Flour Mixture

    In another bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, pepper, and sugar.

  3. Coat Chicken

    Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.

  4. Heat Oil

    In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

  5. Fry Chicken

    Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

  6. Drain and Rest

    Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

  7. Garnish and Serve

    Garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

  8. Enjoy

    Serve your crispy spicy fried chicken hot and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, ensure it is heated through properly to retain its flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with sides like coleslaw, fried rice, or steamed vegetables. A refreshing salad can also complement the meal nicely.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with the spices in the flour mixture to suit your taste. You can add more heat with extra cayenne pepper or try different herbs for a unique flavor twist. For a sweet and spicy version, add a bit of honey to the marinade.