Meet your new favorite comfort food: Spicy Maple Fried Chicken. This dish combines the sweetness of maple syrup with a kick of spice, creating a perfect balance that will have your taste buds dancing. It's an easy way to bring a little extra flair to your fried chicken game.
Chicken thighs are the star here; their rich, juicy flavor stands up well to frying. Buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle tang, while the maple syrup infuses a natural sweetness. The flour is the base for our crispy coating, seasoned with smoked paprika for a hint of smoky depth and cayenne pepper for heat. Garlic powder and onion powder provide savory notes, and salt and black pepper round out the seasoning. Finally, the glaze of hot sauce and butter adds a finishing touch of heat and richness.
This Spicy Maple Fried Chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. For a bit of indulgence, try serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or mac and cheese. A cold glass of iced tea or a crisp lager complements the meal perfectly.
First, you'll want to marinate your chicken thighs. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of buttermilk and 1/4 cup of maple syrup. Give it a good whisk until the syrup is fully incorporated. Place your chicken thighs in the mixture, cover, and let them sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours; overnight if you can, for maximum flavor.
While your chicken is soaking up all that goodness, mix up your flour coating. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure everything is evenly mixed.
When your chicken is ready, remove the thighs from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring a thorough coating. The more thorough, the better your crunch will be!
Heat enough vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the chicken about halfway. Once hot, carefully place the chicken pieces in the oil. Fry them for about 7-8 minutes per side, or until they're golden brown and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is your goal.
Meanwhile, create your glaze. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over low heat, then whisk in 1/4 cup of hot sauce. Once combined, drizzle the glaze over the freshly fried chicken before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
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