Irresistible Fried Chicken Thighs: Crispy & Juicy Recipe

Fried chicken thighs are the epitome of comfort food, boasting a crunchy exterior that gives way to juicy, tender meat. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be so enticing that even your neighbors might start plotting a dinner invitation.

Remember the first time you encountered the crispy goodness of fried chicken? Maybe it was at a family picnic or a cozy dinner with friends. Those moments, filled with laughter and mouthfuls of this delightful dish, create lasting memories worth savoring.

I once served these fried chicken thighs at a backyard barbecue. My uncle declared them “life-changing,” which made my day!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Opt for skin-on thighs for added flavor and moisture during frying.

• Buttermilk: This secret ingredient ensures tender meat and adds a tangy flavor that balances the crunch.

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our crispy coating; sift it for an ultra-light texture.

• Paprika: Adds vibrant color and subtle smokiness; I prefer smoked paprika for extra depth.

• Garlic Powder: A dash elevates the flavor profile; it’s like sprinkling fairy dust on your chicken!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the other flavors; don’t skimp on these!

• Vegetable Oil: For frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point to avoid burnt bits.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs and buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 1 hour; this step is crucial for juicy results.

Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until evenly combined; this will create that crunchy exterior we all crave.

Dredge the Chicken Thighs: Remove each thigh from buttermilk and let excess drip off. Coat thoroughly in the flour mixture; press gently to ensure adherence.

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. You’ll know it’s ready when a pinch of flour sizzles upon contact.

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully add chicken thighs to hot oil without crowding them. Cook for 7-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Drain and Serve!: Once cooked, transfer chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Allow resting for 5 minutes before serving—this helps lock in juiciness.

Now sit back and enjoy every bite of your perfectly fried chicken thighs! Whether paired with mashed potatoes or coleslaw, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour for maximum flavor, then coat it and fry until golden brown. This sequence ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika or garlic powder. Adding hot sauce to the marinade can give your fried chicken thighs an exciting kick that will surprise your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover fried chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them in a 350°F oven to restore their crispy glory.

It was a sunny Sunday when I first served fried chicken thighs to my friends. Their delighted faces as they bit into that crispy goodness made my heart swell with joy.

FAQ

How do I achieve crispy skin on fried chicken thighs?

Make sure your oil temperature is around 350°F before adding the chicken.

Can I use boneless thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster but may be less juicy than bone-in ones.

What dipping sauces pair well with fried chicken thighs?

Honey mustard and spicy ranch are fantastic choices that complement the flavors perfectly.

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Crispy Fried Chicken Thighs

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Fried chicken thighs are the ultimate comfort food, featuring a golden-brown crunchy coating and juicy, flavorful meat. This recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The secret lies in marinating the chicken in buttermilk, ensuring tenderness and flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp paprika (preferably smoked)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each thigh in the flour mixture until well coated.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5. Fry the chicken thighs for 7-8 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
6. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 120mg