The Best Fried Chicken

Name: The Best Fried Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 24 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 8 cups cold water; 1 cup dill pickle juice; 4 tablespoons seasoned salt; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 3-5 pounds skin-on, bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks recommended); 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon seasoned salt; ½ tablespoon Creole seasoning (optional); 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 2 teaspoons black pepper; 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional); Oil for frying (canola oil or vegetable oil, approx. 3 quarts)

There’s something undeniably special about the aroma of freshly fried chicken wafting through the air, wrapping you in a warm cocoon of comfort and nostalgia. The crispy, golden-brown crust promises a satisfying crunch that gives way to juicy, tender chicken—a magnificent dance of flavor and texture. Picture yourself, on a cozy evening, gathering with family or friends, plates piled high with that irresistible fried chicken, and laughter echoing all around. This recipe is not only perfect for such occasions but can also elevate simple weeknight dinners into something truly memorable.

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Recipe Snapshot

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus brining time)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 10–24 hours (including brining)
Servings: 4-6 people
Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Nutritional Breakdown

Per serving (based on six servings):

Calories: 460
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 1500mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0g

(Nutrition information is estimated using standard ingredients and may vary based on specific ingredients used. Source: USDA FoodData Central)

Why You’ll Love It

What makes this fried chicken truly special isn’t just the flavor—though it’s deeply rich and satisfying—but the heartfelt memories it evokes. With each crispy bite, you’ll recall family gatherings and celebrations, where fried chicken often takes center stage. The method of brining infuses the chicken with moisture, ensuring every piece is bursting with flavor. This recipe also shines for its ease; it’s streamlined enough for a quick weeknight meal without sacrificing any of the warmth and love inherent in homemade cooking.

How to Make The Best Fried Chicken

Ingredients

Brining Ingredients:
- 8 cups cold water
- 1 cup dill pickle juice
- 4 tablespoons seasoned salt
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 3-5 pounds skin-on, bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks recommended)
Crisping Mixture:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
- ½ tablespoon Creole seasoning (optional)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional)
Oil for Frying: Canola oil or vegetable oil (approx. 3 quarts)

Cooking Directions

Prepare the Brine: In a large bowl, mix together all the brining ingredients until well combined. Add the chicken, ensuring it is fully submerged, and cover it. Refrigerate for 8-24 hours. (This step is crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken.)
Heat the Oil: When you’re ready to fry, fill your deep fryer or a heavy Dutch oven with oil (3 quarts for deep fryer or halfway for Dutch oven). Heat the oil to 365°F-375°F.
Prepare the Crispy Coating: In a separate large bowl, combine all the crisping mixture ingredients. Remove the chicken from the brine and coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture.
Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken to the hot oil in batches, ensuring they’re not overcrowded—this allows for even cooking. Fry for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Drain and Serve: Remove the chicken using tongs and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!

Serve It Up

Fried chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. Serve it plain with a few sprigs of parsley for a classic look, or make it fancy with sides like creamy coleslaw, fluffy biscuits, or spicy mac and cheese. For a classic Southern touch, drizzle it with honey butter or hot sauce. Consider pairing it with sweet tea for a delightful meal!

Storing Leftovers

Keeping it Fresh

Room Temperature: Fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, it can stay good for up to 2 hours.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, keep it in a freezer-friendly bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture revival.

Inspector Secrets

To ensure your fried chicken achieves that dream-like crispy texture, make sure to let the chicken sit uncovered in the fridge for about 30 minutes after coating it. This allows the flour to adhere better and form a superior crust during frying. For the best flavor, experiment with different seasonings in your brine or crisping mixture—like smoked paprika or chili powder.

Fun Flavor Ideas

Buttermilk Chicken: Substitute the dill pickle juice with buttermilk for a tangy twist.
Spicy Lemon Pepper Chicken: Add lemon zest and substitute the Cajun seasoning for lemon pepper seasoning for a refreshing variation.
Herb-Infused Chicken: Toss in some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into the flour mixture for a flavorful kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Yes, boneless chicken works well, but we recommend skin-on pieces for that signature crunch and flavor.

Q: What’s the best oil for frying?
A: Canola oil is great due to its high smoke point, but vegetable oil also works effectively.

Q: How do I ensure the chicken is juicy?
A: Proper brining and monitoring the internal temperature while frying are key steps to ensure juiciness.

Q: What should I serve on the side?
A: Classic side dishes include coleslaw, mashed potatoes, baked beans, or a fresh garden salad!

Q: Can I make it healthier?
A: Consider baking the chicken at a high temperature instead of frying, using whole grain flour, and reducing salt in the brine.

There you have it! A recipe for the best fried chicken that’s sure to bring joy to your table. I invite you to try out this delightful dish, savor the flavors, and perhaps even share your results with family and friends. Let’s keep the delicious connections alive!