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Classic Fried Chicken

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Crispy, golden fried chicken soaked in seasoned buttermilk and fried to perfection. This traditional comfort-food recipe is best prepared with adult supervision and makes a great family-style meal.
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Stovetop Cooking
  • Skill Level: Intermediate
fried chicken-CV

Prep: 15 minutes | Marinate: 8-12 hours | Cook: 20-25 minutes | Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1–2 lbs chicken pieces, cut up
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ teaspoons seasoned salt
  • 1 lb vegetable shortening or vegetable oil
  • ½ cup butter

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and salt.
  2. Add chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine flour, seasoned salt, and remaining ¾ teaspoon black pepper.
  4. In a large, heavy pan or skillet, heat shortening and butter to 365°F using a thermometer.
  5. Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat thoroughly in flour mixture.
  6. Carefully place chicken into hot oil and fry until golden brown and fully cooked, turning as needed.
  7. Remove chicken and drain on paper towels before serving.

Kid-Friendly Tips

  • Kids can help measure ingredients and mix the flour coating
  • Adults should handle hot oil and frying
  • Use tongs instead of forks for safer turning

Notes

Internal temperature of cooked chicken should reach 165°F. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers oil temperature.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with mashed potatoes or coleslaw
  • Pair with biscuits or corn on the cob
  • Great for picnics once cooled
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Recipe, image and content from Kids-Cooking-Activities.com