Grandma’s Fried Chicken

There’s something magical about a plate of golden, crispy fried chicken. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings, sunny Sunday afternoons, and the warm comfort of home. Today, I’m excited to share a cherished recipe from my Nana’s kitchen: her famous Fried Chicken. This isn’t just any fried chicken; it’s the kind that warms your soul with every bite, perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort or want to impress at a family dinner.

The secret to Nana’s perfectly crispy, tender fried chicken? Buttermilk. Soaking the chicken in buttermilk before frying does wonders. It tenderizes the meat, adds a subtle tang, and helps the flour coating stick better, resulting in a beautifully crispy crust. Trust me, once you try this method, there’s no going back.

Let’s dive into the recipe and create some delicious memories in your kitchen.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make Nana’s Fried Chicken, which serves about four people:

1 whole chicken, cut into pieces: Or about 3-4 pounds of your favorite cuts (thighs, drumsticks, breasts—whatever you prefer).

2 cups buttermilk: Essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding that tangy flavor.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the crispy coating.

1 tablespoon paprika: Adds a touch of warmth and color.

1 tablespoon garlic powder: For a subtle, savory flavor.

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adjust based on your spice preference for a little kick.

Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring out all the flavors.

Vegetable oil for frying: Enough to fill your pan about an inch deep.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Grandma’s Fried Chicken
Ready to cook up some comfort? Follow these steps to create the perfect fried chicken:

Step 1: Soak the Chicken
Prepare the buttermilk bath: In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in 2 cups of buttermilk. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. This allows the buttermilk to work its magic, tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor.

Step 2: Season and Dredge the Chicken
Season the chicken: When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper.

Prepare the seasoned flour: In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and salt and black pepper to taste. Mix it well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Dredge the chicken: Take each piece of chicken and dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure it’s fully coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour, but make sure there’s enough to create that crispy crust.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

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