Name: Easy Fried Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lb drumsticks or thighs; 4 cups whole milk (can sub with water to make dairy-free); 1/4 cup kosher salt; 8 cloves garlic; 2 tbsp black peppercorns; 3 bay leaves; 2 cups flour (Gluten-Free Four – Bobs Red Mill or King Arthur is recommended); 2 cups cornstarch; 1 tbsp kosher salt; 1/2 tbsp white pepper; 1 tbsp black pepper; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1/2 tbsp cayenne pepper; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 cup Seasoning Mix; 1 cup water (cold)

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 18 reviews

Get ready to experience homemade comfort food at its finest with this Easy Fried Chicken recipe. Each bite is an irresistible combination of golden, ultra-crunchy crust and juicy, flavorful meat—a surefire crowd-pleaser for any occasion or family meal. The best part? With a few pantry staples and a little kitchen love, you too can whip up fried chicken that’s just as swoon-worthy as any restaurant version—with even more heart and flavor. Pull out your favorite pan, and let’s give classic home cooking a bold, tasty twist with Easy Fried Chicken!

Easy Fried Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This versatile recipe proves that iconic comfort food starts with simple yet strategic ingredients. Each plays a unique role in creating the addictive crunch, savory depth, and gorgeous golden color that define the ultimate Easy Fried Chicken.

3 lb drumsticks or thighs: Dark meat is extra juicy and flavorful, perfect for classic fried chicken.
4 cups whole milk: Tenderizes the chicken while infusing subtle richness; swap with water for a dairy-free option.
1/4 cup kosher salt: Essential for brining—locks moisture into the chicken and seasons it through and through.
8 cloves garlic: Imparts aromatic depth and savory notes to the brine.
2 tbsp black peppercorns: Adds a bold, peppery kick that complements the juicy meat.
3 bay leaves: Lends a delicate, herbal fragrance you’ll notice in every bite.
2 cups flour: The foundation of a crisp, golden coating—gluten-free flour works beautifully as a substitute.
2 cups cornstarch: Lightens the crust and delivers shattering crispiness.
1 tbsp kosher salt: Further seasons the crust so every mouthful is packed with flavor.
1/2 tbsp white pepper: Brings gentle heat and earthiness to the mix.
1 tbsp black pepper: For extra zing—layering pepper for a rounded taste.
1 tbsp garlic powder: Injects another punch of garlicky goodness into the crust.
1 tbsp onion powder: Adds a sweet-savory background note that elevates the seasoning blend.
1/2 tbsp cayenne pepper: For just the right level of heat without overwhelming the other flavors.
1 tbsp smoked paprika: Infuses subtle smokiness and that beautiful reddish hue.
1 tbsp baking powder: Creates those coveted nooks and crags for crunch galore.
1 cup Seasoning Mix: Used to create a wet batter that helps the crust stick tight and get extra craggily.
1 cup water (cold): Essential to the wet batter for an ultra-crisp finish.

How to Make Easy Fried Chicken

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

Combine whole milk, kosher salt, garlic cloves, black peppercorns, and bay leaves in a large bowl—this flavorful bath is your chicken’s ticket to juicy tenderness. Give each drumstick or thigh a few careful piercings with a knife to help the flavors sink in, then submerge them in the brine for at least 2-3 hours. If you have time, brining overnight takes Easy Fried Chicken to the next level of succulence.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

Meanwhile, mix up your magic coating: in a separate large bowl, stir together the flour, cornstarch, kosher salt, white and black pepper, garlic and onion powders, cayenne, smoked paprika, and baking powder. This aromatic blend not only locks in the flavor but promises the signature crunch Easy Fried Chicken lovers crave.

Step 3: Make the Wet Batter

Scoop out 1 cup of your expertly-mixed Seasoning Mix and whisk it separately with 1 cup of cold water. The result is a silky batter that helps the dry coating adhere—and adds delightful texture when you fry.

Step 4: Prep the Crust for Extra Crunch

After removing the chicken from the brine, spoon several tablespoons of the flavored liquid right into your remaining Seasoning Mix. Rub it all together with your hands; this step creates those coveted “craggily bits” that fry up into outrageously crunchy, textured pockets.

Step 5: Dredge and Coat

Dip each brined chicken piece into the wet batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, plunge each piece straight into the clumpy Seasoning Mix, pressing firmly so every nook and cranny is covered with that crag-filled coating. Lay the pieces on a baking sheet while you heat your oil—they’ll look nice and rustic before they hit the fryer.

Step 6: Fry to Perfection

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a cast iron pan, Dutch oven, or heavy-bottomed wok to 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 8-12 minutes, depending on size, until each piece reaches an internal temp of 165°F and is gloriously deep golden brown. Cool on a wire rack for five minutes—the hardest step!—before you dig in and enjoy your homemade Easy Fried Chicken.

How to Serve Easy Fried Chicken

Garnishes

A handful of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives scattered on top gives a bright pop of flavor and color. For extra Southern flair, try a sprinkling of flaky sea salt or a squeeze of fresh lemon. Don’t forget to serve your Easy Fried Chicken with hot sauce on the side—each person can kick up the heat to their liking.

Side Dishes

Fried chicken tastes even better next to classic comfort sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, homemade coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or fluffy biscuits are always winners. For something lighter, a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of Easy Fried Chicken. If you’re feeling all-in, whip up some mac and cheese or biscuits for a feast that’ll disappear fast!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Easy Fried Chicken picnic-style on a big wooden board with plenty of dipping sauces, or make a totally irresistible sandwich by tucking a piece into a soft brioche bun with a little slaw and pickle chips. Feeling fancy? Slice fried chicken and arrange it atop a hearty salad for a playful main course, or offer up a platter of drumsticks with tiny flags for easy party snacking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Place a paper towel beneath the chicken pieces to help absorb any lingering moisture and keep the crust as crisp as possible.

Freezing

Easy Fried Chicken freezes wonderfully. Lay cooled pieces out on a tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container for up to two months. This way, you can grab just a piece or two for quick meals or snacks whenever you crave that homemade crunch.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Easy Fried Chicken in a 375°F oven for about 15 minutes (or until hot and crispy). The air fryer is also a fantastic option for restoring the crust’s crunch. Avoid the microwave if possible—it tends to soften the crispy exterior.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Fried Chicken with boneless, skinless chicken?

Absolutely! While drumsticks and thighs with the bone-in tend to be juicier, boneless pieces work great too and cook faster. Just keep an eye on the frying time—they’ll be done in roughly 5-8 minutes, depending on thickness.

What’s the trick to getting the coating super crunchy?

It’s all about the combo of flour and cornstarch, plus those craggily bits you create by adding a splash of brine to your Seasoning Mix. This unique method ensures your Easy Fried Chicken comes out extra crispy every single time.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the flour for your favorite gluten-free blend (like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur), and you’ll have irresistibly crisp gluten-free Easy Fried Chicken that everyone can enjoy.

Is it possible to marinate the chicken instead of brining?

Brining infuses flavor and keeps the meat incredibly juicy, but you can use a marinade with similar spices if you’re short on time. Be sure to salt it well and marinate at least 1-2 hours for best results.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The most reliable way is to check that the internal temperature of the thickest piece reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer. The crust should be a deep golden brown and the juices should run clear.

Final Thoughts

Nothing brings people together quite like a batch of piping hot, golden fried chicken, and this Easy Fried Chicken recipe is your golden ticket to dinnertime happiness. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or venturing into frying for the first time, this method guarantees crackly, juicy comfort food that’s sure to get rave reviews. Give it a try—your taste buds (and everyone you share it with) will thank you!