bbq fried chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
bbq fried chicken recipe
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The Best bbq fried chicken recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite BBQ fried chicken recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. I love how the crispy exterior gives way to juicy, flavorful chicken inside.

The secret to making this recipe is in the marinade – it’s what sets it apart from your average fried chicken. I’ve experimented with different seasonings and spices over the years, but this particular combination is my go-to. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday party.

Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to some other fried chicken recipes out there. My kids devour this dish, and I’m sure yours will too. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time. Just mix, marinate, and fry – voila! You’ll be enjoying delicious BBQ fried chicken in no time.

I’ve even been known to make it on busy mornings before school or work when I need a satisfying meal that’ll keep me going until lunchtime.

BBQ Fried Chicken

BBQ Fried Chicken

4.8 from 1169 votes

Crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. This dish combines the crunch of classic fried chicken with the smoky flavor of your favorite BBQ sauce.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying

For the BBQ Glaze

1/2 cup your favorite barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs and buttermilk, ensuring each piece is fully submerged.
2Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to tenderize the meat.
3In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4Remove each chicken thigh from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to adhere.
5Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of 2 inches and heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F on a deep-fry thermometer.
6Carefully place 2 chicken thighs into the hot oil, skin side down, and fry for 6 to 8 minutes until the underside is deep golden brown.
7Using tongs, flip the chicken thighs and continue frying for another 6 to 8 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the coating is crisp and golden brown.
8Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
9In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
10Stir occasionally and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the glaze is warm and slightly thickened.
11Brush the warm BBQ glaze generously over each piece of fried chicken, coating all sides.
12Serve immediately while the chicken is still hot and the glaze is sticky.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Shallow dish
Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
Deep-fry thermometer
Tongs
Wire rack set over baking sheet
Small saucepan
Pastry brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or use a spicy barbecue sauce. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after glazing to allow the coating to stay crispy.

Watch Video Of How BBQ Fried Chicken Works

This BBQ fried chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it is a holiday gathering or a simple Sunday dinner. It brings people together with its familiar flavors and satisfying crunch.

My family requests it for birthdays, picnics, and even game nights. For storage, keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, place it on a wire rack in a 350 degree oven for 10 minutes, or use an air fryer for 5 minutes to bring back the crispiness. You can also serve the chicken cold on a salad or shred it for sandwiches.

The versatility makes it a reliable recipe to have on hand.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Fried Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – whichever you prefer. If you’re looking for a leaner option, breasts are a good choice. Thighs have more fat and flavor, though.

Q: Can I make this recipe without deep-frying?

While the original recipe calls for deep-frying, you can definitely adapt it to bake or grill if you prefer a healthier alternative. To do so, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or fire up your grill to medium-high heat.

Q: How long does the marinade need to sit before cooking?

The longer the marinade sits, the more flavorful your chicken will be. Ideally, let it sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. However, if you’re short on time, even 10-15 minutes is better than nothing.

Q: Can I freeze leftover fried chicken?

Yes! Leftover fried chicken freezes beautifully and can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I reheat leftover fried chicken?

To reheat leftover fried chicken, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and heating it on high for 30-60 seconds.

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