Zesty Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Name: Zesty Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 lbs chicken pieces; 2 cups buttermilk; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups vegetable oil for frying; 1 lemon, zest and juice

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 20 min

🍽 Serves: 6

★★★★★

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Craving something crispy, tangy, and downright irresistible? Let me introduce you to Zesty Buttermilk Fried Chicken. This recipe takes the classic fried chicken up a notch with a punch of lemon and a hint of Cajun spice.

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Ingredients for Zesty Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Buttermilk is your secret weapon for tender chicken. Its acidity helps break down proteins, ensuring each bite is juicy. Lemon adds brightness and depth, working alongside the buttermilk to tenderize and flavor the chicken. You’ll want to use both the zest and juice for maximum impact.

The Cajun seasoning brings a balanced blend of spices that are essential for that Southern flair, while garlic powder and onion powder add savory undertones. A touch of cayenne pepper gives just enough heat without overwhelming the palate. Salt and black pepper round out the seasoning, enhancing all the other flavors.

Lastly, the vegetable oil is perfect for frying as it has a high smoke point, ensuring your chicken gets crispy without burning.

Tips & Tricks

Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature; too hot and the coating may burn, too cool and it’ll be soggy.
Marinating overnight really makes a difference in flavor and tenderness.
Shake off excess flour before frying to prevent it from burning in the oil.

Serving Suggestions

This fried chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a classic combo. For a fresh twist, serve it alongside a corn salad or lightly dressed greens. A side of homemade biscuits wouldn’t go amiss either.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?: Absolutely! Just adjust the frying time as boneless pieces typically cook faster.
What if I don't have buttermilk?: You can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
Is there a way to make it less spicy?: Simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor.

Zesty Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preparing your marinade. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss in your chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better if you have the time.

While your chicken is soaking up all that goodness, mix up your seasoning. In another bowl, whisk together flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This is your magic dust for a perfectly crispy coating.

When ready to cook, heat your vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature. Carefully remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, then dredge it in your seasoned flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well coated.

Gently place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for about 8-10 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Infused with a bright, zesty lemon flavor that elevates the dish.
The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices for a kick of heat.
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients you likely have at home.
Delivers a satisfying crunch every time you take a bite.

Ingredients

4 lbs chicken pieces

2 cups buttermilk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 cups vegetable oil for frying

1 lemon, zest and juice

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, lemon zest, and juice. Add the chicken pieces and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

2. In another bowl, mix the flour, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.

4. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off, then coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.

5. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each piece for about 8-10 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.