👨‍🍳 Fried Chicken Recipe: No Buttermilk Needed

Ever wondered how to make crispy fried chicken without using buttermilk? This simple fried chicken recipe shows how to do it. It follows a homemade fried chicken recipe that doesn’t need buttermilk. It comes from a family recipe in Georgia and ensures a crispy outside and juicy inside. It stands out among other no buttermilk fried chicken recipes. Let’s explore how to make crispy fried chicken with great taste and texture.

Key Takeaways

• This homemade fried chicken recipe uses traditional Southern techniques.
• No buttermilk is required, utilizing eggs instead for the coating process.
• Modern buttermilk is often added for tenderizing and flavor but is not necessary for crispy results.
• For extra crispiness, replace half of the flour with cornstarch.
• The USDA advises against washing raw chicken to prevent bacteria spread.

Introduction to No Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Looking for an easy fried chicken recipe without buttermilk? You’ve found it. While buttermilk normally adds a tang and tenderizes the meat in southern fried chicken, buttermilk-free recipes are popular now. Many choose these for dietary reasons or personal taste variations. But, why go for a no-buttermilk recipe?

Why Choose No Buttermilk

This no-buttermilk fried chicken is great for those avoiding dairy. So, it’s perfect for people who are lactose intolerant. You might be surprised – you can still get a crunchy crust without using buttermilk. This keeps the recipe easy and suitable for varied diets.

It also simplifies your cooking by cutting out a common buttermilk ingredient. Instead, the mixture of flour and seasonings ensures a tasty, crunchy outcome. So, this recipe is both delicious and straightforward.

Brief History of Fried Chicken

Fried chicken’s story is as interesting as its taste. It started in Scottish kitchens, where they fried chicken in lard with no seasonings. This changed when African slaves in the Southern U.S. began using their unique spices.

Since then, fried chicken has become an American favorite, especially in the South. It unites people across cultures and is loved at many events. Before refrigerators, it was even a common travel meal in the South.

The perfect fried chicken dish has a high rating of 4.91 out of 5. It suggests using peanut oil and picking specific chicken cuts. This dish truly honors the taste of the South while maintaining a deep tradition.

Ingredients Needed for This Simple Fried Chicken Recipe

Ready to make yummy fried chicken with no buttermilk? Here’s what you need. These ingredients make sure your chicken is both tasty and crispy.

Main Ingredients

The main ingredients are easy to find. You need:

• 1 lb of chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or wings recommended)
• All-purpose flour for coating the chicken
• Vegetable oil (or alternatives like Crisco, lard, or peanut oil)

Recommended Seasonings

Seasonings are key for great flavor. This recipe suggests using:

• Seasoned salt
• Black pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)

You can also add herbs and spices you like. This will make your fried chicken special.

Preparing the Chicken for Frying

To start, get the chicken ready for frying by trimming off extra skin. It’s also important to pluck out any pin feathers. Cut with a sharp knife for tidy pieces, making them cook evenly and look better.

Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before you fry it. This step is key to avoid the outside getting too dark before the inside is fully cooked.

For making homemade fried chicken, keep things clean and safe:

• Always wash your hands before and after handling raw poultry.
• Use separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.
• Sanitize any utensils and surfaces that come into contact with raw chicken.

To get ready for homemade fried chicken, gather your ingredients first:

• Chicken: 1 lb pieces (thighs and drumsticks)
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups
• Seasonings: seasoned salt, black pepper, onion and garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper

Starting with good chicken and a clean work area is crucial. Let the chicken warm up a bit. Then, make sure everything is tidy and ready. This sets a great stage for the next steps – marinating and breading for the final, crispy touch.

Seasoning the Chicken

Seasoning is key to making tasty fried chicken. Mix the right spices, and you’ll have a hit with your family. Figuring out the best seasoning lets every part of the chicken, from the crispy outside to the tender inside, taste amazing.

Best Seasoning Options

To get the best flavor, use a mix of different spices. Here are some great choices:

• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Cayenne pepper
• Paprika
• Thyme
• Rosemary
• Onion powder

Seasoned salt, like Lawry’s, is a good way to mix things up. It adds depth to the taste and makes your chicken distinct.

Alternative Seasoning Ideas

Looking for a unique taste for your fried chicken? Try these herb and spice mixes:

1. Mediterranean twist: Oregano, basil, and garlic powder
2. Asian flair: Five-spice, ginger, and soy sauce
3. Spicy southwestern: Chili powder, cumin, and lime zest
4. Sweet & smoky: Brown sugar, smoked paprika, and mustard

These ideas can spark creativity in the kitchen. Adjust the seasonings to your liking to make every chicken piece perfect.

How to Dredge Chicken for Optimal Crispy Coating

Getting the perfect crispy fried chicken starts with knowing how to dredge chicken right. You can use two main ways: the Double Handed Method and the Bag Technique Method. Either way makes a crunchy outside that keeps the chicken inside juicy.

Double Handed Method

This old-school way means you use one hand for wet stuff and one for dry stuff. This keeps too much batter from piling up on your fingers and messing with the chicken’s texture:

1. Prepare your station: Set up a bowl of buttermilk and one of seasoned flour.
2. Wet hand: Dip chicken in buttermilk, making sure it’s fully covered.
3. Dry hand: Move the chicken from buttermilk to flour, giving it a nice, even coating.
4. Shake off excess: Give each piece a little shake to lose any extra flour before frying.

Bag Technique Method

The bag method is a neat, quick way to dredge. It’s great for getting an even coating of flour and spices. Plus, it means less mess:

• Prepare the bag: Put seasoned flour in a big, sealable bag.
• Coat the chicken: Drop buttermilk-soaked chicken into the bag.
• Shake firmly: Seal it up and give it a good shake until the chicken is nicely coated.
• Remove and rest: Take the chicken out, shake off the extra flour, and let it sit before cooking.

Both methods help you get that golden, crispy coat on your fried chicken. Whether you like the double handed way or the bag approach, knowing how to dredge chicken well makes your fried chicken taste like it’s from a restaurant.

The Importance of Flour in Fried Chicken Recipes

Choosing the right flour is key to make perfect crispy fried chicken. The right flour gives a crunchy, golden outer layer that tastes great. Let’s explore why certain flours are top picks for making a crispy coating without buttermilk.

Why Self-Rising Flour

Self-rising flour has all-purpose flour blended with leavening agents like baking powder. It also has a bit of salt. This mixture makes a crisp, airy coating for fried chicken. The leavening agents in it help create a crunchy texture and a golden look. Your chicken will turn out light and crispy.

Using All-Purpose Flour with Additives

If you don’t have self-rising flour, all-purpose flour can work great with some adjustments. Adding potato starch and a bit of baking powder can help. This mix will make the chicken very crispy and stop too much oil from being absorbed. It also makes the crust flaky and golden, mimicking self-rising flour.

Trying out different flour blends can lead to the perfect crispy coat for your chicken. Whether you choose self-rising flour or use additives with all-purpose flour, remember the goal. Aim for a delicious, crunchy crust that pairs well with the moist chicken it covers.

Cooking the Chicken: Cast Iron vs. Other Pans

Choosing the right pan is key when making homemade fried chicken. A 12-inch cast iron skillet shines for this job. It keeps heat well and spreads it evenly. This makes your chicken crispy on the outside and juicy inside.

With a cast iron skillet, you can make your chicken incredibly crisp with a simple recipe. Just 3 pounds of chicken, half a cup of oil, and a hot oven at 450°F. Bake for 15 minutes on each side. Always make sure it heats to 160°F for breasts and 175°F for thighs.

“The chicken dark meat needs to reach 175º while light meat needs to hit 160º to be considered done.”

If you don’t own a cast iron skillet, don’t worry. Non-stick and stainless steel pans work too. Just be careful to keep the oil hot. This is how you get a nice crunch without the chicken taking in too much oil. Remember, the right tools and method bring great flavors.

The Best Oils to Use for Frying Chicken

Choosing the right oil is key for tasty fried chicken. Look at the smoke point and how healthy the oil is. This will help you pick the best one.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is a favorite for its high smoke point and mild taste. This oil keeps your chicken both tasty and crispy. It’s easy to find and good for your wallet. The perfect temperature for frying chicken is 350˚ to 365˚ Fahrenheit, which vegetable oil handles well.

Peanut Oil

Chefs love peanut oil because it has a high smoke point of 450 degrees. This means it won’t change flavor at high heat, leaving your chicken tasting just right. It lets the chicken’s seasonings come through, making it a top choice for fried chicken.

Butter Flavor Crisco

Butter Flavor Crisco adds a buttery taste and a high smoke point. It reaches 370 degrees, like lard. Using this oil gives your fried chicken a crispy, buttery coating. Every bite will have a bit of butter flavor.

Choosing the right oil can make a big difference in your fried chicken. You’ll get a crispy outside and a tasty inside every time. Pick the oil that fits your taste and health needs for the best results.

Step-by-Step Fried Chicken Recipe Without Buttermilk

Here’s a guide to make delicious crispy fried chicken without buttermilk. Follow these simple steps for amazing results.

Step One: Preparing the Chicken

First, flatten 2 large boneless chicken breasts. Then cut them into four pieces to make cutlets. This step helps the chicken cook evenly.

Step Two: Coating the Chicken

Mix 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour with spices like black pepper and paprika. Add eggs to the mix. This coats the chicken and keeps it moist without buttermilk.

Step Three: Frying the Chicken

Next, heat some avocado oil in a cast iron skillet to 350°F. Then fry the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes each side. It should be crispy and golden brown. Make sure the chicken’s inside is 165°F. Let the chicken cool on wire racks after frying.

Tips for Achieving Extra Crispy Fried Chicken

Getting your fried chicken extra crispy can really improve your meals. Here are some top tips to make your chicken’s coating perfect.

Adding Cornstarch

Using cornstarch is a key trick for a super crispy crust. Mixing it with flour gives a light, crunchy coating. This combo is better than using just flour, which can be heavy.

Maintaining Proper Oil Temperature

Keeping the oil at the right temperature is crucial. Aim for 350-375ºF (176-190ºC) for perfect results. This stops the chicken from getting greasy or soggy.

1. Preheat the oil to the right temperature first.
2. Monitor the temperature constantly with a thermometer.
3. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the temperature up.
4. Fry in batches for the best outcomes.

With these tips, you’ll cook amazing crispy fried chicken. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a big celebration, your chicken will be just right.

Serving Suggestions for Fried Chicken

Pair fried chicken with sides that make it taste better and match its flavors. You can go for traditional Southern dishes or try something new. There are many great options for southern fried chicken sides.

Traditional Southern Sides

Southern food has many dishes that go well with fried chicken. You might like classic choices like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and cornbread. For something crunchy, fried green tomatoes or coleslaw are great. These sides bring out the best in fried chicken and keep the Southern food tradition alive.

• Mashed Potatoes
• Mac and Cheese
• Coleslaw
• Fried Green Tomatoes
• Cornbread

For more ideas on side dishes for fried chicken with a Southern touch, check out this link.

Modern Twist Sides and Dips

Looking for something new? Try dishes like Mexican street corn, Asian slaw, and stuffed tomatoes. These dishes mix different flavors with the crispy, salty taste of fried chicken. It’s a fun way to enjoy your meal.

• Mexican Street Corn
• Asian Slaw
• Vegetable Pesto Salad
• Stuffed Tomatoes
• Zucchini Barley Salad

For more creative serving suggestions, visit this Southern fried chicken recipe collection.

“Fried chicken is a dish that marries well with both traditional and innovative sides, bringing out the best in its flavor and texture.”

You can make your meal even better with dips. Try creamy ranch, zesty lemon aioli, or barbecue sauce. Dips add moisture and extra flavor. For a variety of recipes and dip ideas, explore this fried chicken recipes link.

Choosing the right side dish can make your fried chicken meal great. Stick with the classics or try new dishes. Your choice of sides can make a big difference.

How to Store and Reheat Fried Chicken

Keeping your fried chicken tasty and safe to eat needs the right storage and reheating. Learn to keep the outside crispy and the inside juicy.

Storage Tips

Fried chicken should leave the danger zone (temperatures between 40°F and 140°F) fast. Refrigerate it within two hours of cooking to stop bacteria. Use airtight containers. This keeps your chicken fresh and stops other fridge foods from affecting its taste.

Best Reheating Methods

There are many ways to make crispy chicken warm again, based on your tools and what texture you want.

First, let the fried chicken sit out for 10 to 30 minutes. This helps it heat up better, keeping its crispiness. Don’t cover it with foil when you reheat it. This can make the chicken soggy by trapping steam.

Different Cuts of Chicken for Frying

Selecting the right chicken piece for frying is important. It affects how your dish turns out and the taste. You have lots of choices, from whole chickens to specific parts like chicken tenders. This guide will help you pick what’s best for you.

Using Whole Chicken

Whole chicken frying is a great way to get a mix of flavors and textures. You can enjoy everything from the tender breasts to the juicy thighs. It also ensures you can taste the succulent drumsticks. But cooking a whole chicken evenly takes some skill. Follow these steps to do it right:

• Thighs: Thighs are full of flavor and very tender. They’re great for frying and take 5-7 minutes on each side to cook.
• Legs: Legs need a bit more time, about 7-9 minutes on each side. They are very flavorful because of the bone.
• Breasts: Breasts need about 5 minutes on each side. They’re best when they’re still juicy and have a crispy crust.
• Wings: It takes around 5 minutes on each side for wings to get that crispy coating.

Chicken Tenders and Strips

Chicken tenders and strips are perfect if you want something quick and tasty. Their even thickness helps them cook in a balanced way. This means you get tender and crispy pieces every time. They’re ideal for anyone who loves their chicken to be bite-sized and crunchy.

• Tenders: Tenders are soft and cook evenly. They take about 5 minutes per side to become crispy.
• Strips: Strips are a bit thicker but still cook well in about 5 minutes on each side. They end up nice and crunchy too.

No matter if you go for a whole chicken or pick tenders and strips, you’ll end up with a wonderfully tasty meal.

Creating Dairy-Free Fried Chicken

Making dairy-free fried chicken that’s crispy and tasty, like the classic kind, is tricky. It involves swapping buttermilk with eggs or other alternatives. This way, people with specific diet needs can still savor this favorite meal.

Using Eggs Instead of Buttermilk

If you’re on the hunt for a buttermilk-free option, consider using eggs. They coat the chicken well, leading to a satisfying crunch. Below is a simple guide to get you started:

1. Beat 2 eggs until smooth in a large bowl.
2. Dip (around 4 pounds) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the egg mix.
3. Coat the chicken in seasoned flour. A classic mix includes 1 Tbsp. paprika, 1 Tbsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper.
4. Fry the chicken in 2 quarts of preheated canola oil, at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Make sure the chicken’s internal temperature hits 170 degrees Fahrenheit before it’s good to go.

Dairy-Free Buttermilk Options

There’s also another approach, using dairy-free buttermilk substitutes. These mimick the tenderness and flavor of traditional buttermilk without any dairy.

These alternatives are ideal for folks with Celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or anyone avoiding dairy. They make the recipe welcoming to a broader range of eaters.

Additional Recipes to Try

Ready to try something new in the kitchen? These tasty recipes are a great twist on classic fried chicken. They don’t need buttermilk too. You’ll love the variety of flavors and textures they bring.

Southern Fried Chicken Wings

Feel the Southern vibe with these amazing fried chicken wings. They’re known for their spicy kick and crunchy outside. This recipe uses a special double dredging method for the perfect juicy center and crispy skin.

Cornflake Fried Chicken

If you love extra crunch, cornflake fried chicken is for you. This unique coating gives your chicken an addictive crispiness. It shows how creative you can get with fried chicken and adds a fun crunch to your meal.

Fried Chicken Nuggets

Fried chicken nuggets are ideal for a snack or a meal. They’re easy to make and loved by all. Use the same methods from the other recipes to keep them moist on the inside and crispy on the outside. Try different seasonings and breading to make them just how you like.

Conclusion

Making no buttermilk fried chicken is easy and fun, great for any cook. We learned to swap buttermilk with seasoned flour and an egg wash. This change still gives you a dish that’s crispy and tasty. The secret is in using the right spices and frying it just right.

To keep your chicken moist and full of flavor, choose good oils like peanut or vegetable oil. You can also use Greek yogurt or a mix of milk and baking powder instead of eggs. This way, you still get a delicious result. And remember, how you store and reheat it matters to keep it tasty. For a trustworthy recipe, our one without buttermilk shows detailed steps for success.

For anyone who loves cooking, know that you can make this yummy dish at home. All it takes is some patience and the right ingredients. This fried chicken with its crispy outside and juicy inside is perfect for any occasion. Check out our guide for more tips on making unforgettable chicken without buttermilk.