Name: Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 8 pieces chicken (skin on, thighs and drumsticks, approximately 3 pounds); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried mustard; ½ teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon dried sage; 2 cups buttermilk (480 mL); 2 cups all-purpose flour (260 g); 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1½ teaspoons garlic powder; 1½ teaspoons paprika; 1½ teaspoons dried basil; 1½ teaspoons dried thyme; 1½ teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Vegetable oil (enough to be 1-2 inches deep in a deep frying pan)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 76 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of making the crispiest, juiciest fried chicken right at home, then this Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe is about to change your life. This is not just any fried chicken; the magic starts with marinating the chicken in tangy buttermilk and a blend of aromatic spices that tenderize the meat and infuse it with incredible flavor. The secret to the perfect crunch comes from a carefully seasoned flour mixture and frying technique that locks in all the juicy goodness inside a golden, crispy shell. Whether you're crafting a family dinner or impressing friends on the weekend, this Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe promises a tender, flavorful bite every time and might just become your new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a white round plate in the center with raw chicken pieces stacked in layers, pale pink with some yellow fat visible. Around the plate, several small white bowls and wooden bowls hold ingredients for cooking; these include white flour with a smooth texture, yellow buttermilk, and small piles of spices in colors such as orange-red paprika, pale beige onion powder, light brown garlic powder, dried green herbs like sage, basil, and thyme, white salt, coarse pepper, and cayenne with a reddish tone. There is also a clear glass bowl with pale yellow oil. The bowls are arranged evenly on a white marbled surface, and the scene is bright and clean, with some labels identifying each ingredient. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe, but don’t worry—they are straightforward, pantry-friendly staples. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from tenderizing the chicken to building rich layers of flavor and creating that signature golden crust that shatters with every bite.

Chicken (8 pieces, skin on, thighs and drumsticks): These cuts ensure juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin after frying.
Salt and ground black pepper: The basics that enhance and balance all the other flavors.
Garlic powder, dried mustard, paprika, dried sage: A fragrant spice mix that seasons the chicken beautifully during marination.
Buttermilk (2 cups): The star ingredient for tenderizing and adding a subtle tang to the chicken.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): Forms the crunchy coating that gives fried chicken its irresistible texture.
Baking powder (1 tablespoon): Helps create a light, crispy crust.
Seasoning blend (salt, garlic powder, paprika, dried basil, dried thyme, onion powder, cayenne pepper): This dynamic blend spices up the flour for maximum flavor.
Vegetable oil: Essential for deep frying to achieve that perfect golden brown exterior.

How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season and Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried mustard, ½ teaspoon paprika, and ½ teaspoon dried sage over the chicken. Toss well to coat every piece evenly with the spices. Pour in 2 cups of buttermilk and stir carefully until all the chicken pieces are submerged in this flavorful marinade. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though overnight is best, to let the buttermilk tenderize the chicken and infuse those wonderful flavors deeply.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating

While the chicken marinates, mix together the dry ingredients that will give the crust its perfect texture and flavor. In a shallow dish, whisk 2 cups flour with 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1½ teaspoons salt, 1½ teaspoons garlic powder, 1½ teaspoons paprika, 1½ teaspoons dried basil, 1½ teaspoons dried thyme, 1½ teaspoons onion powder, and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper. This aromatic and mildly spicy flour will create a deliciously crispy outer layer that complements the tender chicken inside.

Step 3: Heat the Oil for Frying

Fill a deep frying pan with vegetable oil so there’s 1 to 2 inches depth, and heat it to about 340°F. This temperature is crucial because it crisps the chicken beautifully without burning, while making sure the inside cooks through properly. Using a candy thermometer for accuracy is a great tip to maintain the perfect frying temperature throughout the process.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken

Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk marinade, letting excess drip off gently. Immediately toss the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure every nook and cranny is thoroughly coated. This step ensures the crust will be thick, flavorful, and delightfully crunchy once fried.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken Until Golden and Cooked Through

Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, but don’t overcrowd the pan to keep the temperature steady. Fry 4 to 5 pieces at a time, turning occasionally, for about 15 minutes each piece or until the crust turns golden brown and crisp. It’s important to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 170°F to ensure it’s cooked safely and juicy all the way through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to drain any excess oil and keep the crust perfectly crispy.

How to Serve Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

The image shows a white plate filled with four pieces of golden-brown fried chicken with a crispy, rough texture. The chicken pieces are stacked closely together, and small bits of crispy batter are visible around them. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and there are hints of a blue cloth and some green herbs around the edges, adding subtle color contrasts. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple touches like fresh herbs—think chopped parsley or thyme sprigs—sprinkled over the chicken add a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich fried exterior. For a little extra tang, serve with wedges of lemon that guests can squeeze over their chicken bites. A drizzle of honey or hot sauce on the side can also elevate the flavor experience.

Side Dishes

Classic sides are the perfect partners for this Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, and crunchy coleslaw create a well-rounded plate full of varied textures and complementary flavors. For a lighter option, try a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables to balance the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to mix things up? Turn your Buttermilk Fried Chicken into sliders with soft buns, crunchy pickles, and a tangy mayo for an irresistible snack or party platter. Alternatively, create a Southern-style chicken and waffles plate, topping the chicken with warm syrup, or shred the fried chicken and toss it with a spicy barbecue sauce for a fun twist on sandwiches and wraps.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining much of its crunch and juiciness if properly stored.

Freezing

To freeze leftovers, wrap each piece tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen fried chicken can last up to 2 months and is perfect for those busy days when you want a quick, tasty meal ready to heat.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe is in the oven to restore its signature crispiness. Place the chicken on a baking rack set over a baking sheet and heat at 375°F for about 15 to 20 minutes, checking that it’s warmed through without drying out. Avoid the microwave to keep that crispy coating intact.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While thighs and drumsticks are ideal for their juicy, flavorful meat, you can use breasts or wings as well, though cooking times may vary. Just be mindful that white meat can dry out quicker, so monitor closely while frying.

Do I have to use buttermilk for the marinade?

Buttermilk is key to tenderizing the chicken and adding a subtle tang, which is part of what makes this recipe special. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, but fresh buttermilk delivers the best results.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest and most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 170°F. If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear when pierced with a knife and the meat near the bone is no longer pink.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

While frying gives you that classic crunchy texture, baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the chicken as directed and bake it at 400°F on a wire rack until the crust is crispy and the chicken is cooked through, about 40-45 minutes, but it won’t be quite as crunchy as frying.

What oil is best for frying this chicken?

Vegetable oil is a great choice because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, allowing the spices and chicken flavors to shine without interference. Other good options include canola or peanut oil.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about biting into a piece of fried chicken with a perfectly crisp crust and juicy, tender meat bursting with flavor—and this Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe delivers just that in spades. It’s approachable enough for a weeknight treat and impressive enough for entertaining loved ones. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of homemade fried chicken magic. I promise once you try this recipe, it will be your go-to comfort food for life.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need