Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a medium American (Southern) recipe that serves 6. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by Mr. Make It Happen on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 5 min

Cost: $24.42 total, $4.07 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2.5 lb Chicken Pieces (bone‑in, skin‑on drumsticks, thighs or a mix; cleaned and dried)
  • 1 tsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning (adds citrusy heat)
  • 1 tsp Hot Sauce (for a little kick in the seasoning)
  • 2 cup All-Purpose Flour (for the final coating)
  • 1 cup Cornstarch (creates extra crispness)
  • 2 cup Buttermilk (cold, for marinating)
  • 1 tsp Chicken Bouillon Powder (adds umami depth)
  • 2 tbsp Pre‑Made Poultry Seasoning Blend (half a packet of the "good stuff")
  • 4 cup Vegetable Oil (high smoke‑point oil for deep frying)
  • 2 tbsp Hot Sauce (for serving) (optional drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Season and Marinate Chicken

    Pat the chicken pieces dry, then season evenly with lemon pepper, hot sauce, a half packet of the pre‑made poultry seasoning blend, and chicken bouillon powder. Massage the seasoning into the meat, place the chicken in a bowl, cover with buttermilk, and refrigerate overnight.

    Time: PT10M

  2. Make Flour‑Cornstarch Coating

    In a large mixing bowl whisk together 1 cup cornstarch and 2 cups all‑purpose flour until well combined and free of lumps.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Dredge Chicken in Coating

    Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Toss each piece in the flour‑cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to coat all sides with no bald spots. Arrange coated pieces on a plate and let rest for 5 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Heat Oil to 350°F

    Fill the deep fryer with vegetable oil and heat until it reaches 350°F, checking with the digital thermometer.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 350°F

  5. Fry Chicken Until Golden

    Carefully lower the coated chicken into the hot oil using tongs. Fry in small batches, turning once, until the exterior is deep golden‑brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 8‑10 minutes per piece.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: 350°F

  6. Drain and Plate

    Remove the fried chicken with tongs, place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil, drizzle with hot sauce if desired, and let rest 2 minutes before serving.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
450
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
20g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: High protein, Contains dairy, Contains gluten

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 8, 2026

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Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Recipe by Mr. Make It Happen

A Southern‑style crispy fried chicken marinated in tangy buttermilk and seasoned with a blend of lemon pepper, hot sauce, and a secret seasoning mix. Perfect for Friendsgiving or any gathering, this recipe delivers juicy meat inside a golden, crunchy crust.

MediumAmerican (Southern)Serves 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
25m
Prep
25m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h
Total

Cost Breakdown

$24.42
Total cost
$4.07
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Season and marinate chicken overnight
  • Maintain oil temperature at 350°F
  • Achieve an even coating without bald spots
  • Fry until internal temperature reaches 165°F

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; use tongs and a thermometer.
  • Never leave the fryer unattended.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of crispy fried chicken in Southern American cuisine?

A

Fried chicken became a staple of Southern cooking in the 19th century, blending Scottish frying techniques with African seasoning traditions. It is celebrated as comfort food and is a centerpiece at holidays like Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of fried chicken exist within the United States?

A

In the South, buttermilk marination and a double‑dredge are common, while Nashville hot chicken adds a spicy cayenne glaze. Korean fried chicken uses a thin, ultra‑crisp coating and sweet‑spicy sauces.

cultural
Q

How is crispy buttermilk fried chicken traditionally served in Southern gatherings?

A

It is typically served hot with side dishes such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, and a selection of hot sauces. The chicken is often presented on a platter for communal sharing.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is crispy fried chicken traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Fried chicken is a popular main dish for family gatherings, holiday meals like Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving, picnics, and backyard barbecues across the United States.

cultural
Q

What makes this crispy buttermilk fried chicken recipe special compared to other Southern fried chicken recipes?

A

The overnight buttermilk soak tenderizes the meat, while the combination of cornstarch and flour creates an ultra‑crisp crust. A half‑packet of a pre‑made seasoning blend adds depth without extra prep.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making crispy buttermilk fried chicken at home?

A

Common errors include not drying the chicken before seasoning, overcrowding the fryer which drops oil temperature, and frying until the exterior is brown but the interior is undercooked. Always pat dry, fry in small batches, and check for an internal 165°F temperature.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use a cornstarch‑flour blend instead of flour alone?

A

Cornstarch absorbs less oil and creates a lighter, crunchier texture, while flour provides structure. The blend gives the chicken a distinctive, airy crust.

technical
Q

Can I make the crispy buttermilk fried chicken ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight and keep the coated pieces refrigerated for up to 12 hours before frying. After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the chicken is done?

A

The crust should be deep golden‑brown and crackly, and the meat should be juicy with an internal temperature of 165°F. When you tap the coating, it should sound crisp.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen specializes in practical, step‑by‑step home cooking tutorials that focus on classic comfort foods and holiday dishes, often emphasizing technique and kitchen hacks for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen's approach to Southern cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Mr. Make It Happen combines clear, concise instructions with budget‑friendly tips and uses everyday kitchen tools, whereas many other channels may rely on specialty equipment or overly complex techniques.

channel

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