Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Spicy Chicken
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I stumbled upon this recipe during a trip to the South, where spicy fried chicken is a beloved tradition. After countless trials in my kitchen, I perfected the balance of spice and crunch. My family and friends rave about it, and it's now a go-to for dinner parties."

With over ten years of experience, Chef Mitchell specializes in American cuisine and has a passion for creating flavorful dinner recipes. His culinary journey began in a bustling restaurant kitchen, where he honed his skills and creativity.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Spicy Chicken served on a plate

Why This Crispy Spicy Chicken Recipe Works

This Crispy Spicy Chicken recipe stands out for its unique blend of spices and the double-dredging method, which creates an impressive crunchy texture. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with flavor, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying.

The combination of panko and cornmeal gives the coating an extra crispiness that is hard to resist. This technique not only enhances the taste but also elevates the visual appeal, making it a stunning centerpiece for any meal.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let the chicken rest after frying for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This will keep the meat tender and juicy while the coating remains crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry. Just ensure it comes to room temperature before frying for even cooking.

If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The exterior should be golden brown and crispy. You can also check the juices; they should run clear.

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Crispy Spicy Chicken pairs well with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with dipping sauces like ranch or a spicy aioli for added flavor.

The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure it's in an airtight container to maintain its crispiness and flavor.

Yes, you can prep the chicken and even fry it a few hours ahead of time. Just reheat in the oven to keep it crispy before serving.

The best way to reheat Crispy Spicy Chicken is to place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore its crispiness while warming it through.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your chicken is dry, it may have been overcooked or cooked at too high a temperature.

Solution: To prevent dryness, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and adjust the oil temperature to maintain a steady heat while frying.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken isn't crispy, it may not have been dredged properly or the oil temperature was too low.

Solution: Ensure the chicken is coated evenly and maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C) while frying for the best results.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken is overcooked, it may be tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, monitor the frying time closely and use a thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the chicken is undercooked, it will be pink and unsafe to eat.

Recovery: Cook the chicken longer and consider lowering the heat to ensure the outside doesn't burn while the inside cooks through.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the chicken has a burnt exterior, the oil may have been too hot.

Prevention: Lower the heat and fry in smaller batches to maintain an even temperature throughout the cooking process.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the chicken is too sweet, add a hint of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, serve with a side of unsalted mashed potatoes or a salad to offset the saltiness.

Bland: If the chicken is bland, try increasing the amounts of spices used in the marinade and coating mixture next time.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Spicy Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Spicy Chicken

The key to a flavorful Crispy Spicy Chicken lies in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh chicken ensures tenderness, while a good blend of spices adds the desired kick. Don't skimp on the marinades or coatings; they're crucial for building flavor.

Using high-quality buttermilk and freshly ground spices can elevate the dish even further. The right balance of oil for frying is also important to achieve that perfect crunch.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Opt for organic, free-range chicken for better flavor and texture. The quality of the chicken directly impacts the overall dish.
  • Spices: Use fresh spices whenever possible. Ground spices lose their potency over time, so investing in whole spices will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
  • Oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, for frying. This will help achieve a crispy exterior without burning.
Cooking process for Crispy Spicy Chicken

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Frying chicken can seem daunting, but this step-by-step guide simplifies the process. With the right preparation and technique, you'll have golden, crispy chicken that rivals any restaurant.

Pay close attention to the frying temperature and timing to achieve the best results. The double-dredging technique creates an irresistible crunch that makes this chicken unforgettable.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Spicy Chicken

The double-dredging technique is essential for achieving a crispy texture. By coating the chicken in both flour and panko, you build layers that fry up beautifully, ensuring a satisfying crunch.

Crispy Spicy Chicken

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce
    Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    Optional for flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    Optional for flavor
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
    For color
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    For coating
  • 1 cup buttermilk
    For marinating
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce
    For extra heat
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For added flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder
    For added flavor
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
    For flavor
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
    For heat
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken

    In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In another bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

  3. Coat Chicken

    Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.

  4. Prepare Panko Mix

    In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, cornmeal, oregano, and chili powder.

  5. Double Dredge

    Dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk, then coat with the panko mix.

  6. Heat Oil

    In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat until hot.

  7. Fry Chicken

    Carefully add chicken pieces to the skillet and fry for 10-12 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

  8. Drain and Serve

    Remove chicken from skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Crispy Spicy Chicken, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze it, and reheat in the oven for best results.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Spicy Chicken is delicious on its own or served with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or fluffy biscuits. Pair it with a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

You can customize this Crispy Spicy Chicken recipe by adjusting the spice levels or trying different marinades. For a healthier version, consider baking the chicken instead of frying.