If you're craving something crispy and full of flavor, this Crispy Herb-Infused Fried Chicken recipe is just the ticket. With fresh herbs and a perfectly crunchy coating, it's a step above your usual fried chicken. Get ready to wow your taste buds.
The secret to this recipe lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is the star, and marinating it in buttermilk ensures it's juicy and tender. The combination of flour and cornstarch in the coating creates that desirable crispy crunch. A bit of baking powder helps the coating puff up nicely. For seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper add depth and just a hint of heat. Fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley are sprinkled on top for a fragrant finish.
This fried chicken pairs perfectly with a classic side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. For a Southern twist, serve it with warm biscuits and honey butter. A cold, crisp glass of iced tea rounds out the meal wonderfully.
Start by whisking together the buttermilk and eggs in a large bowl. This mixture is your marinade, which will tenderize the chicken wonderfully. Add your chicken pieces to the bowl, making sure they're completely submerged. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge. Let the chicken soak up all that goodness for at least 2 hours. If you can, let it sit overnight to really take the flavor up a notch.
While the chicken is marinating, mix up your coating. In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This mix will give you that irresistible crispy crust. When you're ready to fry, take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing it on to make sure it sticks well.
Now, heat up your vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven. You want it hot, about 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces, a few at a time, to avoid crowding the pan. Fry them up, turning occasionally, for 12-15 minutes until they're golden and cooked through. Once done, let them drain on paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
Finally, while the chicken is still hot, sprinkle the freshly chopped herbs on top. This not only adds a burst of flavor but also makes your dish look beautifully vibrant.