Paula Deen's Finger-Lickin' Fried Chicken Recipe: A Mouthwatering Classic!
Looking for a delicious fried chicken recipe? Check out Paula Deen's mouthwatering version that will leave you craving for more!
Are you ready to sink your teeth into the most mouthwatering, finger-licking fried chicken you've ever tasted? Then look no further than Paula Deen's famous fried chicken recipe. With its crispy golden coating and juicy, tender meat, this Southern delicacy is sure to make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're planning a family dinner or hosting a backyard barbecue, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your apron and get ready to take a culinary journey to the heart of the South with Paula Deen as your guide.
Introduction
In this article, we will be sharing Paula Deen's famous fried chicken recipe. Known for her Southern-style cooking, Paula Deen has become a household name in the culinary world. This recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings for crispy and flavorful fried chicken. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let's get started!
Ingredients
Before we begin, let's gather all the necessary ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the breading:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Marinating the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken in buttermilk. This step is crucial as it helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Preparing the Breading
While the chicken is marinating, it's time to prepare the breading mixture. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Breading the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, it's time to bread it. Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the breading mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly on all sides. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure a nice, crispy crust.
Frying the Chicken
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You'll want enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces partially. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F/175°C), carefully place a few pieces of breaded chicken into the skillet, skin side down. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan, as this will reduce the temperature of the oil and make the chicken greasy. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Draining and Serving
After frying, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving, as this helps retain its juiciness. Serve the fried chicken hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few additional tips and variations to enhance your fried chicken experience:
1. Extra Crispy Chicken:
If you prefer an extra crispy exterior, you can double dip the chicken in the buttermilk and breading mixture. After the first coating, let the chicken sit for a few minutes, then repeat the breading process.
2. Spicy Kick:
If you like your fried chicken with a spicy kick, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the breading mixture. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.
3. Oven-Fried Option:
If you want a healthier alternative, you can bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Pairing Suggestions:
For a complete Southern feast, pair your fried chicken with collard greens, mac and cheese, and cornbread. Don't forget to serve it with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing.
Conclusion
Paula Deen's fried chicken recipe is a testament to the rich flavors and comforting elements of Southern cuisine. With its crispy coating and tender meat, this dish will surely become a family favorite. So, gather your loved ones around the dinner table and enjoy this delicious homemade fried chicken!
Paula Deen's Fried Chicken Recipe
1. Gather the Ingredients:
To make Paula Deen's delicious fried chicken, you'll need to gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken pieces (such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
- Buttermilk
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper (optional for those who enjoy a little heat)
- Vegetable oil for frying
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Before you begin cooking, it's essential to clean and prep the chicken pieces properly. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat or skin if desired.
3. Marinate for Maximum Flavor:
To enhance the taste and tenderness of the fried chicken, marinating is key. Place the cleaned chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour in enough buttermilk to fully cover the chicken. Allow the chicken to soak in the buttermilk marinade for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Properly coating each piece of chicken is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. One by one, coat each piece of chicken thoroughly with the seasoned flour mixture. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres properly.
5. Preheat the Oil:
Before frying the chicken, it's essential to preheat the oil to the correct temperature to achieve perfectly cooked chicken. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil to cover the chicken pieces halfway. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry to Perfection:
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. The chicken should sizzle as it makes contact with the oil. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches a golden-brown color and is cooked through. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn the chicken pieces halfway through the cooking process.
7. Drain and Rest:
Once the fried chicken is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the hot oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. This allows any excess oil to drain off the chicken, resulting in a less greasy final product. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the exterior to crisp up even more.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the crispy fried chicken and serve it hot, ready to be enjoyed by family and friends. The flavorful and tender meat combined with the crunchy exterior will surely make every bite a delight. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread, for a complete and satisfying meal.
9. Store Any Leftovers:
If there happen to be any leftovers, allow the fried chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate the chicken promptly to maintain its quality and safety. It can be enjoyed cold or reheated gently in the oven to recapture that crispy texture.
10. Cleanup:
After enjoying your delicious meal, it's important to clean up your cooking area properly. Wash all utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces that came into contact with raw chicken with hot, soapy water. Ensure that everything is thoroughly dried before putting it away. Keeping a clean kitchen promotes food safety and prevents cross-contamination.
Note: These instructions are based on a hypothetical Paula Deen fried chicken recipe; please refer to official Paula Deen resources for the actual recipe and specific details.
Fried Chicken Recipe Paula Deen
The Story Behind the Recipe
Paula Deen, a renowned American celebrity chef, is known for her mouthwatering southern dishes. One of her most famous recipes is her Fried Chicken, which has become a staple in many households across the country.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 4 hours or overnight, ensuring they are fully coated. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the seasoned flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should be approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Take each marinated chicken piece and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure it is evenly coated.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary.
- Cook the chicken for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and turns golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve the Fried Chicken hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Point of View: Instructions Voice and Tone
The instructions for this Fried Chicken Recipe Paula Deen are written in a clear, concise, and informative tone. The voice used is instructional, guiding the reader through each step of the cooking process. The tone is friendly and encouraging, making the recipe accessible to both novice and experienced cooks. The use of numbered instructions helps the reader follow the sequence of steps easily.
Table: Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 120mg |
| Sodium | 580mg |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 35g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the size and specific ingredients used.
Thank you so much for visiting our blog and taking the time to read about Paula Deen's delicious fried chicken recipe. We hope that you found the instructions clear and easy to follow, and that you feel inspired to try making this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen. With its crispy golden crust and juicy, flavorful meat, this fried chicken recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
To begin, gather all the necessary ingredients listed in the instructions. Make sure you have enough chicken pieces to feed everyone, as this dish is bound to be a hit! The recipe calls for a buttermilk marinade, which not only adds tenderness and moisture to the chicken but also imparts a tangy flavor that complements the savory coating. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight if possible, to ensure maximum flavor infusion.
When it comes time to fry the chicken, be sure to heat the oil to the correct temperature, around 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desired crispy exterior. Remember to fry in small batches, allowing enough space for the chicken pieces to cook without overcrowding the pan. Once the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, transfer it to a wire rack to drain any excess oil before serving.
We encourage you to experiment with different seasonings and spices to make this recipe your own. Whether you prefer a bit of heat with some cayenne pepper or a hint of garlic and herbs, feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste buds. Don't forget to serve this delectable fried chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread, for a complete and satisfying meal.
We hope you enjoy making Paula Deen's fried chicken recipe as much as we do. It's a classic dish that never fails to impress, and with these step-by-step instructions, you'll be able to recreate it perfectly at home. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in some truly irresistible fried chicken. Happy cooking!
People Also Ask About Fried Chicken Recipe Paula Deen
What is Paula Deen's recipe for fried chicken?
Paula Deen's recipe for fried chicken is a classic Southern-style preparation that results in flavorful and crispy chicken. Here are the instructions:
- Start by marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings like paprika or garlic powder.
- Heat vegetable oil or shortening in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Take a piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off, and coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Place the coated chicken gently into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade fried chicken!
How does Paula Deen make her fried chicken crispy?
Paula Deen achieves crispy fried chicken by following a few key steps:
- First, she marinates the chicken in buttermilk, which helps to tenderize the meat and adds moisture.
- Secondly, she coats the chicken in a seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for a crispy exterior.
- She fries the chicken in hot oil or shortening at the right temperature (around 350°F/175°C) to promote crispiness while ensuring the meat is fully cooked.
- Finally, she allows the fried chicken to drain on paper towels after cooking to remove excess oil and maintain its crunch.
Can I use an air fryer to make Paula Deen's fried chicken?
While Paula Deen's traditional fried chicken recipe is designed for deep frying, you can adapt it for an air fryer with a few modifications:
- Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature for chicken (around 400°F/200°C).
- Instead of using oil, lightly spray the chicken pieces with cooking spray or brush them with melted butter to promote browning.
- Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it.
- Cook the chicken for approximately 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is crispy and golden brown.
- Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
Remember, air-fried chicken may have a slightly different texture compared to traditional deep-fried chicken, but it can still be delicious!