Golden Corral's Fried Chicken features juicy, tender chicken pieces expertly seasoned and fried to a golden-brown, crispy perfection, delivering a flavorful and satisfying crunch in every bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Sheet pans or trays
- Thermometer
- Wire rack
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs (1.4-1.8 kg) chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts, wings)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Chicken pieces should be fresh and well-trimmed to ensure even cooking and a tender texture. Buttermilk acts as a tenderizer and flavor enhancer, so it's important to soak the chicken for at least a few hours or overnight. Measure the spices carefully to achieve the signature Golden Corral flavor balance, especially the cayenne pepper, which adds subtle heat. Use fresh vegetable oil heated to around 350degF (175degC) for frying to achieve a golden-brown, crispy crust without greasiness. Your fried chicken will closely replicate the juicy, flavorful experience found on Golden Corral's copycat menu.
Instructions
- Cut chicken into desired pieces on a cutting board using a chef’s knife.
- In a mixing bowl, pour buttermilk over chicken pieces; toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (overnight preferred).
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each chicken piece in seasoned flour, pressing to coat thoroughly.
- Transfer coated chicken to a wire rack or tray and let rest 10–15 minutes.
- Fill deep fryer (or large, deep pot) with vegetable oil; preheat oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to check temperature.
- Using tongs, carefully lower a few chicken pieces at a time into hot oil—do not crowd fryer.
- Fry chicken until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 12–15 minutes, turning as needed.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a clean wire rack set over a sheet pan to drain excess oil.
- Repeat with remaining chicken pieces, allowing oil temperature to return to 350°F before each batch.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Golden Corral's Fried Chicken can be replicated at home by marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk to ensure tenderness and seasoning the flour mixture with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, and herbs for authentic flavor. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to achieve a similar acidity that helps tenderize the chicken. Using a deep fryer maintains the ideal frying temperature around 350degF (175degC), but a heavy-bottomed pot with a thermometer and ample vegetable oil can also work effectively for even cooking. When frying, avoid overcrowding the oil to maintain temperature and crispiness; cook in batches if necessary. Once fried, draining the chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels helps preserve the crispy coating without sogginess, ensuring your fried chicken stays crunchy longer.
Tips
Ensure your oil temperature stays steady at 350degF (175degC) using a reliable thermometer for optimal frying results and to avoid greasy chicken. Allow the coated chicken to rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before frying to help the flour adhere better and create a crisp crust. Use tongs to gently lower chicken into oil and avoid overcrowding the fryer, which can drop the oil temperature and result in soggy pieces. To guarantee juicy, tender chicken, marinate in buttermilk for at least an hour or overnight; this tenderizes the meat and enhances flavor throughout.
Nutritions
Golden Corral's Fried Chicken is a rich source of protein with each serving providing the essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth. The buttermilk marinade adds calcium and probiotics, which support bone health and digestion. The frying process increases the calorie and fat content, primarily due to the vegetable oil absorbed during cooking, so moderation is key for those monitoring fat intake. Your nutritional needs can be balanced by pairing this dish with vegetables or a fresh salad to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Storage
Store leftover Golden Corral's Fried Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain its crispy texture and prevent bacterial growth. Use your refrigerator's coldest section, ideally at or below 40degF (4degC), and consume the chicken within 3-4 days for optimal freshness. Reheat the chicken in an oven preheated to 375degF (190degC) on a wire rack to help retain its crunch without drying it out.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar to tenderize the chicken if buttermilk is unavailable. Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the flour mixture for a smoky flavor variation. For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken by dipping it again into buttermilk and flour before frying. Using peanut or canola oil instead of vegetable oil can enhance the frying temperature stability and flavor.
Allergies
Golden Corral's Fried Chicken contains common allergens such as milk from buttermilk and wheat from all-purpose flour, which may trigger reactions in individuals with dairy or gluten allergies. The seasoning blend includes spices like paprika and cayenne pepper that can cause sensitivities or contact dermatitis for some people. If you have known allergies to these ingredients, it is essential to avoid this dish or consult with a healthcare professional before consumption.
Why this recipe?
Golden Corral's Fried Chicken is renowned for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, tender meat, delivering a satisfying texture and flavor. The unique seasoning blend sets it apart, providing a perfect balance of savory and mild spices that appeal to a wide range of taste buds. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate that iconic taste and quality at home, ensuring fresh, customizable servings whenever you crave comfort food. Your homemade version captures the essence of Golden Corral's popular menu item while allowing for personal tweaks to suit your flavor preferences.