Joanna Gaines Fried Chicken Recipe

This isn’t your average fried chicken guys!

Joanna Gaines’ recipe features a buttermilk-soaked chicken for ultimate tenderness and a crispy golden crust you want in a fried chicken.

My favorite tip?

Don’t skip the step of seasoning your flour mix generously—it’s the secret to a crisp, golden crust every time!

This is all about the balance of subtle spices and that perfect crunch that keeps everyone coming back for more.

How to Make Joanna Gaines Fried Chicken

Ingredients

• 8 pieces Chicken (bone-in)
• 2 cups Buttermilk
• 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tbsp Garlic Salt
• 1 tbsp Ground Black Pepper
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tbsp Paprika
• 1 tbsp Salt
• 1 tbsp Pepper
• Vegetable Oil (for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix the buttermilk, garlic powder, garlic salt, and ground black pepper in a large container.

Cover the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture and refrigerate overnight.

Step 2:

Combine flour, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large plastic bag.

Drain the chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture.

Step 3:

Place a few pieces of chicken at a time into the bag with seasoned flour.

Seal the bag and shake to coat each piece evenly.

Step 4:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet until hot but not smoking.

Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes per batch.

Step 5:

Remove the chicken using tongs and rest on a wire rack for about 5 minutes before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spices and clean chicken will give you the richest flavor possible.

Always ensure your spices aren’t expired before preparation for the best taste.

Maintain Oil Temperature

Keep an eye on the oil temperature to prevent burning.

Adjust the heat between medium and high to maintain a steady frying temperature.

Drain Chicken Properly

Draining the chicken on a wire rack helps keep it crispy.

Avoid placing directly on paper towels as this may make it soggy.

What to Serve with Joanna Gaines Fried Chicken

Mac and Cheese

There’s nothing like serving Joanna Gaines’ Fried Chicken with a classic, creamy mac and cheese.

Its cheesy, smooth texture adds a wonderful contrast to the crispy chicken.

Try using a mix of cheddar and Gruyère for an irresistibly rich flavor.

Collard Greens

Collard greens are a traditional Southern side that pairs marvelously with fried chicken.

They bring a hint of bitterness that complements the savory chicken.

Cook them slowly with a bit of ham or bacon for added depth and richness.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted sweet potatoes make for a slightly sweet, hearty side dish.

They can be easily made in the oven or an air fryer.

A drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory chicken.

Kimchi

Want to add something unexpected to your meal?

Kimchi brings a spicy and refreshing twist when served with fried chicken.

Its tangy flavor cuts through the richness, offering a unique and delicious combination.

Cucumber Salad

For a fresh and cool side dish, consider a cucumber salad.

Thinly slic ed cucumbers mixed with red onion and a splash of vinegar create an invigorating bite.

It’s a refreshing change of pace that complements the chicken beautifully.

Variations and Substitutions

For a spicier kick, try adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.

You can substitute Greek yogurt for buttermilk if you’re out or prefer a tangier flavor in your chicken.

Looking for a gluten-free option? Use rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend for the coating.

Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor profile of the chicken.

Healthier Options

Bake the chicken instead of frying to reduce calorie and fat content while still achieving a crispy texture.

Air frying is another alternative that can give you that crunch without the added oil from deep frying.

Use chicken breast instead of bone-in pieces if you prefer leaner cuts.

Side Dish Twists

For classic accompaniments, pair your chicken with coleslaw or mashed potatoes.

Try serving with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal balance.

You can make coleslaw with red cabbage and apple for a sweet-and-tangy twist.

Feel free to get creative, and make any changes according to your taste preferences to enjoy something uniquely yours!

How to Store Leftover Fried Chicken

One of the best things about Joanna Gaines’ fried chicken is that you can enjoy it even as leftovers if stored properly.

You should aim to store leftovers within two hours of cooking to keep them safe and delicious!

Refrigeration Techniques

First, let the fried chicken cool down to room temperature before storing it.

Layer a container with paper towels to absorb excess grease and place the chicken in it.

Use another paper towel on top before sealing the container.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

To keep fried chicken for more extended periods, freezing is an excellent option for maintaining its crispy texture.

Wrap each piece in aluminum foil or freezer paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Remember to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.

Quick Tips for Best Results

Keep moisture to a minimum by blotting the chicken with paper towels before storing it.

Make sure to store the chicken in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

If possible, label and date your containers to easily track how long they’ve been stored.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Never underestimate the importance of oil temperature when frying chicken.

If the oil is too cool, the chicken will become soggy and miss out on that perfect crunch.

Too hot, and the chicken will burn on the outside before the inside cooks through.

Overcrowding the Pan

You might want to fry a lot at once, but resist the urge to overcrowd the pan!

When the pan is packed, the oil temperature drops, resulting in greasy chicken.

Frying in batches is your best friend here.

Skipping the Buttermilk Soak

Skipping the buttermilk soak can be tempting when you’re in a rush, but it truly impact the flavor and texture.

The buttermilk adds moisture and helps the flour stick, creating a tasty, crisp crust.

Allowing enough time for soaking can elevate your dish from good to great!