Crispy Southern Comfort Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the Buttermilk Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add a generous pinch of salt and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks in the buttermilk mixture, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oil: In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when you sprinkle a bit of flour in it.
2. Dredge the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating adheres well. For an extra-crispy crust, you can repeat this step, dipping the chicken back into the buttermilk and then dredging it again in the flour mixture.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin-side down. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes per side, or until the coating is deep golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
2. Drain: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oil and place it on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps keep the chicken crispy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve Hot: Serve the crispy chicken hot with your favorite Southern sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, cornbread, or a refreshing coleslaw.

Tips for the Best Crispy Southern Comfort Chicken

• Don’t Skip the Marinating Time: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is essential for tender, flavorful chicken.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let the Coating Rest: After dredging the chicken in the flour mixture, let it sit for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier crust.

Conclusion

Crispy Southern Comfort Chicken is a dish that brings the warmth and hospitality of Southern cooking to your table. With its flavorful, crunchy crust and juicy, tender meat, this chicken is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it for Sunday dinner or as the centerpiece of a family feast, this dish embodies everything we love about Southern comfort food. So gather your loved ones, dig in, and enjoy every delicious bite of this crispy, golden goodness!