There’s something truly enchanting about the aroma that fills the kitchen when you start preparing Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Picture this: as the sun sets and the evening begins, you coat succulent pieces of chicken in tangy buttermilk, letting them soak up flavors while whispers of garlic and fresh herbs dance in the air. This isn’t just any fried chicken—it’s my favorite recipe, a beloved comfort food that’s earned its place at dinner tables and gatherings alike.
With each crispy bite, you’ll be treated to a perfectly golden crust hiding juicy, tender meat that’s bursting with flavor. This Garlic & Herb Buttermilk Fried Chicken transforms a usually simple dish into a sensational feast, bringing warmth and joy to any meal. It’s the solution to the mundane takeout nights and a delightful project for home chefs eager to elevate their culinary skills. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken special?
Simplicity at its core: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Flavor Explosion: Infused with garlic and fresh herbs, every bite is a taste sensation, elevating your traditional fried chicken to new heights.
Versatile Appeal: This dish can shine solo or pair beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store for up to 2 days; just reheat to enjoy that just-fried crispiness again!
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken Ingredients
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For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs/breasts – Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Kosher salt – Essential for brining, it enhances the overall taste of the dish. -
For the Brine
• Buttermilk – Adds tangy richness and moisture; can be substituted with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
• Brown sugar – Balances the saltiness in the brine; white sugar can serve as a substitute if preferred. -
For the Breading
• All-purpose flour – This core ingredient creates that beautifully crispy exterior we all love.
• Baking powder – Not optional; it lightens the breading texture for extra crispiness.
• Paprika, onion powder, garlic powder – These give depth and flavor to the coating that elevates your favorite buttermilk fried chicken. -
For Frying
• Vegetable oil (peanut oil preferred) – Use oils with high smoke points for safe frying; they help to achieve that lovely golden crust. -
For the Garlic and Herb Infusion
• Fresh garlic – Infuses the oil with aromatic flavor, adding a delicious twist to your fried chicken.
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) – Enhance the dish with vibrant flavors and make your kitchen smell divine.
How to Make Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken
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Prepare the Brine: In a large bowl, whisk together hot water, kosher salt, brown sugar, and your choice of spices. Submerge the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated, and refrigerate for 12 hours to 3 days for optimal flavor.
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Mix the Buttermilk Soak: In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, an egg, and season with spices. Place the brined chicken into this mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 minutes, which enhances the taste and ensures moisture retention.
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Create the Flour Dredge: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and the remaining spices. Dredge your soaked chicken pieces in the flour mix, ensuring each piece is well coated but shaking off any excess flour.
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Infuse the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add crushed garlic cloves and fresh herbs, allowing the flavors to infuse the oil for about 30 minutes—this step elevates the dish with aromatic richness.
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Fry the Chicken: Carefully lower the coated chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches. Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately 7-8 minutes per side.
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Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm, and enjoy the lovely crispy exterior paired with juicy meat.
Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an added flavor burst.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken?
Elevate your dinner experience by pairing this crispy delight with sides that complement its rich flavors and textures.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
The velvety texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes are the perfect contrast to the crunchy chicken, creating a comforting meal. -
Zesty Coleslaw:
This crunchy and tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing burst that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, enhancing your dining pleasure. -
Garlic Green Beans:
Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a delightful snap and a dose of freshness, beautifully balancing the savory flavors of the chicken. -
Light Garden Salad:
A crisp salad with seasonal greens and a vinaigrette dressing adds brightness to the meal, making it feel lighter and more vibrant. -
Honey Biscuits:
These warm, sweet biscuits invite you to soak up every last drop of gravy, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible. -
Homemade Sweet Tea:
A glass of refreshing sweet tea is the quintessential drink pairing, providing a sweet counterbalance to the savory buttermilk fried chicken.
Bringing together these sides creates a well-rounded meal that will have your family asking for seconds and savoring every bite!
Expert Tips for Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken
- Oil Temperature Matters: Maintain your frying oil between 325-350°F. Using a candy thermometer prevents soggy chicken, ensuring a crispy texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry chicken in small batches. Overcrowding cools the oil, making it difficult to achieve that perfect golden crust on your favorite buttermilk fried chicken.
- Double Dredging: For an extra-crispy coating, consider a second dredge. This tip can elevate the crunch factor and make your chicken irresistible!
- Rest the Chicken: Allow your fried chicken to rest on a paper towel for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture while ensuring the crispy exterior.
- Flavor Infusion: Let the garlic and herbs steep in the oil longer for a more intense flavor. Enhance your dish further with this simple yet effective trick!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic & Herb Buttermilk Fried Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep! You can brine the chicken and soak it in buttermilk up to 3 days in advance, ensuring that the flavors deepen and the meat remains juicy. To maintain quality, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator during this time. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious meal, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture right before frying. This way, your fried chicken will be just as flavorful and crispy, providing busy home cooks with a wonderful time-saving option for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Customize your dish and let your creativity shine—it’s all about flavors that sing!
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the flour dredge for a fiery twist that will tantalize your taste buds. Pair it with a cooling dipping sauce!
- Herb-Infused: Swap fresh garlic for roasted garlic and mix different herbs like oregano or basil for a unique flavor profile that surprises with every bite.
- Whole Wheat: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and more nutritious option, without compromising on crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for those with dietary restrictions and still achieve crispy perfection.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you’re out of buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Vegan Option: For a plant-based twist, substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower and use plant-based milk for soaking, retaining all the delight.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika in the dredge for an added depth of flavor that’ll take your fried chicken to a whole new level.
- Zesty Lemon: Grate some lemon zest into the flour mixture for a lighter, bright flavor that beautifully balances the richness of the dish.
Feel free to explore these variations and discover delightful new tastes right from your kitchen!
How to Store and Freeze Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store your leftover buttermilk fried chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Placing small pieces of parchment paper between layers can help maintain crispness.
Freezer: If you want to extend storage, freeze cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months; just be sure to squeeze out excess air.
Reheating: To enjoy your chicken without sacrificing crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Room Temperature: Allow chicken to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. Never leave it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for my Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work best for this recipe, ensuring that each piece stays tender and juicy. Opting for high-quality chicken will elevate the flavor, making every bite a delight!
How should I store leftover buttermilk fried chicken?
After enjoying your delicious fried chicken, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the crispy texture, I recommend placing small pieces of parchment paper between layers when storing.
Can I freeze my buttermilk fried chicken?
Very! To freeze your Favorite Buttermilk Fried Chicken, first arrange cooked pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer bag, ensuring to squeeze out excess air, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat fried chicken without losing crispiness?
To reheat your cherished buttermilk fried chicken and keep that irresistible crunch, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating.
Can I use any substitutions for buttermilk in this recipe?
Certainly! If you lack buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk plus either one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to create a similar tangy consistency that helps tenderize the chicken.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! For those with gluten allergies, consider using a gluten-free flour blend for the breading. If serving this dish to pets, it’s best to avoid giving them fried chicken, as the seasoning may not be suitable for their diets. Always consult with a vet for dietary questions related to pets.
Flavor-Loaded Buttermilk Fried Chicken with Garlic & Herbs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the brine: In a large bowl, whisk together hot water, kosher salt, brown sugar, and your choice of spices. Submerge the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated, and refrigerate for 12 hours to 3 days.
- Mix the buttermilk soak: In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, an egg, and season with spices. Place the brined chicken into this mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 minutes.
- Create the flour dredge: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and the remaining spices. Dredge your soaked chicken pieces in the flour mix.
- Infuse the oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil. Add crushed garlic cloves and fresh herbs, allowing the flavors to infuse the oil for about 30 minutes.
- Fry the chicken: Carefully lower the coated chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches. Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately 7-8 minutes per side.
- Drain and serve: Once cooked, transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm.