Classic Fried Chicken from Church's Chicken features juicy, tender chicken pieces seasoned with a blend of savory spices and encased in a golden, crispy batter, delivering a satisfying crunch and flavorful comfort in every bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
- Thermometer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
When preparing Classic Fried Chicken from Church's Chicken, marinating your chicken pieces in buttermilk is crucial for achieving tender, juicy meat with enhanced flavor absorption. Be sure to season your flour mixture with the blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to replicate the signature crispy and savory crust. Use a deep fryer or a heavy pan filled with vegetable oil heated to the correct temperature, around 350degF, to ensure each piece cooks evenly and attains the perfect golden crunch. Avoid overcrowding the fryer to maintain oil temperature and prevent soggy coating. Your homemade Classic Fried Chicken from Church's Chicken copycat menu will provide a deliciously crispy and flavorful experience reminiscent of the original.
Instructions
- Cut the whole chicken into pieces on the cutting board, using the chef’s knife.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Add chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- In another mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, the remaining salt, and the remaining black pepper. Mix well.
- Remove chicken pieces from the marinade and let excess buttermilk drip off.
- Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off excess.
- Place coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with a wire rack. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Preheat vegetable oil in the deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Use the thermometer to check the temperature.
- Using tongs, carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil. Fry in batches without overcrowding.
- Fry chicken for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove fried chicken with tongs and drain on a clean wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Classic Fried Chicken from Church's Chicken copycat recipes capture the rich, savory seasoning and crispy coating that makes the original so beloved. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute it with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar to tenderize the chicken similarly. Vegetable oil is preferred for frying due to its high smoke point, but peanut or canola oil can also be used effectively. Make sure to maintain the oil temperature around 350degF to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and achieves the desired golden crust. Your wire rack is essential for draining excess oil and keeping the chicken crispy after frying.
Tips
Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours is essential to tenderize the meat and enhance flavor absorption. Ensuring the oil temperature stays steady at 350degF prevents undercooking or excessive grease absorption. After dredging, let your chicken rest on the wire rack for 10-15 minutes to help the coating adhere better and avoid batter falling off during frying. Use a thermometer to confirm the chicken's internal temperature has reached 165degF to guarantee it's safe to eat and thoroughly cooked.
Nutritions
Classic Fried Chicken from Church's Chicken provides a hearty source of protein from the whole chicken pieces, essential for muscle repair and growth. The dish contains calories primarily from the all-purpose flour batter and vegetable oil used in deep frying, contributing to a higher fat content, including some saturated fat. Spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper add minimal calories but enhance flavor and may offer antioxidants. To manage your intake, enjoy this crispy comfort food in moderation alongside healthier sides.
Storage
Your Classic Fried Chicken can be stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil to maintain its crispiness. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 375degF (190degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore its crunchy texture without drying out.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and lemon juice or vinegar to achieve a similar tenderizing effect. For an extra crispy texture, double-dip the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying. Consider using a blend of vegetable oil and peanut oil for frying to enhance flavor and improve heat tolerance. To infuse more aroma, add dried rosemary or smoked paprika to the flour seasoning mix.
Allergies
Classic Fried Chicken from Church's Chicken contains common allergens like wheat in the all-purpose flour used for the crispy batter and dairy from the buttermilk marinade. If you have gluten intolerance or a milk allergy, your reaction risk increases significantly when consuming this dish. It's important to check ingredient labels carefully and consult with the restaurant to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Church's Chicken Classic Fried Chicken is beloved for its crispy, golden-brown coating and juicy, tender meat that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. The unique blend of spices and savory seasoning creates a flavor profile that stands out among other fried chicken offerings. You can recreate this iconic taste at home by following a copycat recipe that captures the authentic taste and texture, making it affordable and customizable to your preferences. Trying the copycat at home allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal anytime without the wait or expense.