Homestyle Fried Chicken from Bob Evans features tender, juicy chicken pieces seasoned with a blend of traditional spices, coated in a golden, crispy batter that delivers a comforting, classic Southern flavor.
Equipments
- Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Paper towels
- Shallow dredging trays or plates
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Using buttermilk to marinate the chicken is crucial as it tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor absorption, ensuring your fried chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Measuring spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper accurately will create the perfect balance of traditional Southern seasonings. Make sure to coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture to achieve a crispy, golden crust. Using a meat thermometer guarantees the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature without drying out. You can enjoy the classic taste of Bob Evans' Homestyle Fried Chicken by following this copycat recipe that replicates their comforting Southern flavor.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs.
- Place chicken pieces in buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight preferred).
- In a shallow tray, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each chicken piece in seasoned flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Place coated chicken on a wire rack and let rest for 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 12–15 minutes.
- Transfer fried chicken to a baking sheet lined with paper towels or on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Homestyle Fried Chicken from Bob Evans copycat menu replicates tender, juicy chicken pieces seasoned with a blend of traditional spices and coated in a golden, crispy batter. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve similar tenderness. Using a deep fryer ensures even cooking, but a heavy-bottomed pot filled with vegetable oil and a consistent temperature maintained by a meat thermometer works just as well. Tongs and a wire rack over a baking sheet help keep the chicken crispy after frying by allowing excess oil to drain properly. Remember to adjust frying times based on the size of your chicken pieces to ensure they are fully cooked without burning the crust.
Tips
Make sure your chicken pieces are completely dry before marinating to help the buttermilk mixture cling better, enhancing flavor and moisture retention. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) to ensure the chicken is safely cooked while remaining juicy. Letting the coated chicken rest on a wire rack before frying helps the flour mixture adhere properly, resulting in a crispier, golden crust. Your oil temperature should be maintained consistently at 350degF (175degC) to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
Nutritions
Homestyle Fried Chicken from Bob Evans provides a rich source of protein essential for muscle repair and growth, with each piece delivering approximately 25 grams of protein. The buttermilk marinade enhances tenderness while contributing some calcium and probiotics beneficial for digestion. However, frying in vegetable oil increases the calorie and fat content, particularly saturated fats, so moderation is key for maintaining heart health. When enjoying this dish, balance your meal with vegetables or whole grains to optimize nutrition for your overall well-being.
Storage
Store leftover homestyle fried chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil to maintain crispness and prevent moisture buildup. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) to restore the golden, crispy texture without drying out your chicken.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap buttermilk with plain yogurt or milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar for a similar tangy marinade. Experiment with the seasoning blend by adding smoked paprika or ground mustard to enhance depth of flavor. For a crispier crust, double-dip the chicken by dunking it back into the buttermilk mixture before dredging in the seasoned flour again. Consider oven-baking the dredged chicken at 400degF (200degC) for 35-40 minutes as a healthier alternative to deep frying, flipping halfway through cooking.
Allergies
Homestyle Fried Chicken from Bob Evans contains common allergens such as eggs, gluten from all-purpose flour, and dairy from buttermilk. Individuals with allergies to any of these ingredients should avoid this dish or seek allergen-free alternatives to ensure safety. You can check ingredient labels carefully or ask about allergen handling if you have sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
The Homestyle Fried Chicken menu from Bob Evans restaurant is beloved for its perfectly crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat seasoned with a classic blend of spices. The recipe captures the nostalgia of homemade comfort food, making every bite feel familiar and satisfying. You can recreate this dish at home to enjoy the same rich flavors and crispy texture while customizing seasoning to your taste and saving money on dining out. Making a copycat version offers a delicious way to bring restaurant-quality fried chicken to your kitchen.