Mama’s Fried Chicken Recipe
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (Prep time does not include 2 hours chilling time.)
Description:
Indulge in the timeless delight of Mama’s Fried Chicken, a beloved classic brought to you by Curtis Aikens from the Food Network. This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food, featuring succulent whole chickens coated in a crispy, golden crust. The preparation is simple yet rewarding, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Recipe Category: Whole Chicken
Keywords: Chicken, Poultry, Meat, Kid Friendly, Less than 60 Minutes, Stove Top
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 525
- Fat Content: 35.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 10.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 165.3mg
- Sodium Content: 859.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 6.2g
- Fiber Content: 0.1g
- Sugar Content: 5.9g
- Protein Content: 41.8g
Ingredients:
- 3-4 whole chickens
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups buttermilk
- Self-rising flour (quantity not specified)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Start by sprinkling the whole chickens with salt and pepper.
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Marinate in Buttermilk: Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a shallow dish or ziplock plastic bag. Pour buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize.
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Dredge in Flour: After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk, discarding any excess liquid. Dredge each piece of chicken in self-rising flour until evenly coated, ensuring a crispy exterior when fried.
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Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour oil to a depth of about 1 1/2 inches. Heat the oil to 360°F (182°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to fry the chicken to golden perfection.
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Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, a few pieces at a time, to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cover the skillet and fry the chicken for approximately 6 minutes on each side, maintaining a steady heat throughout the frying process.
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Check for Doneness: After cooking for a total of 12 minutes (6 minutes per side), uncover the chicken and continue frying for an additional 9 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Drain and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps maintain the crispiness of the fried coating.
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Ensure Cooked Through: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The thermometer should register 170°F (77°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken, or you can also check by piercing the thickest portion with a fork. If the juices run clear, the chicken is done and ready to be enjoyed.
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Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the golden brown chicken pieces on a platter and serve hot, accompanied by your favorite sides and sauces. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, Mama’s Fried Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, delighting taste buds with its irresistible flavor and crispy texture.
Tips and Variations:
- For an extra flavorful twist, add your favorite herbs and spices to the buttermilk marinade, such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like thyme and oregano.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, mix some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the flour mixture before dredging the chicken.
- Serve Mama’s Fried Chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a satisfying meal that’s reminiscent of Southern comfort food.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
Conclusion:
Mama’s Fried Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary tradition that brings joy to the table and creates lasting memories with loved ones. With its simple yet irresistible flavors and crispy texture, this classic dish is a testament to the timeless appeal of homemade comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, Mama’s Fried Chicken is sure to satisfy your soul and leave you longing for more. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the essence of home-cooked goodness.
