Get ready to transform your kitchen into a flavor explosion with the most mind-blowing fried chicken recipe that will make your taste buds dance! This Buttermilk Ranch Fried Chicken isn't just another recipe - it's a culinary experience that combines the tangy richness of buttermilk, the zesty kick of ranch seasoning, and perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken that'll have everyone begging for your secret. Prepare to become the ultimate home chef with this mouthwatering dish that promises restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix buttermilk with ranch seasoning, creating a flavorful marinade for the chicken.
- Place chicken thighs in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are completely covered. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- In a separate shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a well-seasoned coating.
- Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each chicken thigh completely in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Carefully place coated chicken thighs into hot oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from oil and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as additional ranch or hot sauce.
Tips
- Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, let the chicken sit in the buttermilk marinade for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This ensures tender, juicy meat.
- Temperature is Key: Use a digital thermometer to maintain oil at exactly 350°F. Too hot, and the outside burns; too cool, and the chicken becomes greasy.
- Don't Overcrowd: Fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding leads to soggy, uneven chicken.
- Rest Your Chicken: Allow the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack, not just paper towels. This helps maintain the crispy coating's texture.
- Pat Dry Before Coating: Ensure chicken is pat dry before dredging in flour for a crispier, more even coating.
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with your seasoning - the flour mixture is where your flavor magic happens!Pro Tip: Serve immediately for the ultimate crispy experience, and pair with cool ranch or hot sauce for an extra flavor punch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 160mg
