Classic Southern Buttermilk Bathed Fried Chicken

Name: Classic Southern Buttermilk Bathed Fried Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: Spice Rub; 6 chicken leg quarters (leg and thigh separated); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried marjoram; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1.5 teaspoons cayenne pepper; 3 tablespoons salt; 1 tablespoon black pepper; Butter milk Brine; 1-2 quarts buttermilk; 4 tablespoons vinegar-based hot sauce; 6 cups all-purpose flour; peanut or canola oil for frying

Servings: persons

Spice Rub
6 chicken leg quarters (leg and thigh separated)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1.5 teaspoons cayenne pepper
3 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
Butter milk Brine
1-2 quarts buttermilk
4 tablespoons vinegar-based hot sauce
6 cups all-purpose flour
peanut or canola oil for frying

1
In a medium bowl, mix all of the dry spices. Add chicken and toss until well coated. Let the mixture stand at room temp (if cooking within 4 hours) or refrigerated in a large bowl for one hour.
2
Pour enough buttermilk over the chicken to cover completely and stir in the hot sauce. Leave on the countertop for one to three hours, or refrigerate up to 24 hr. Pour chicken legs into colander and allow excess buttermilk to drain.
3
In a large bowl, mix the flour with salt and pepper to season well. One-by-one add the chicken pieces, making sure they are thoroughly coated with flour on all sides. Leave them in the bowl with the excess flour while you wait on the oil.
4
Fill a very large pot 4-6 inches deep with oil and heat to 325 degrees. Grab each piece of chicken and slap it back and forth between your hands a few times to knock off the excess flour before slipping it into the oil. As the legs go into the oil, the temperature will drop. Turn the flame to high to increase the temperature to 350 as the chicken cooks. Cook 12-18 minutes until golden brown and at least 160 degrees at the bone, Remove to a rack to drain and season immediately with salt. Cool a few minutes and serve.

1092

kcal

Calories

Fat

139

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 14 ingredients. The key ingredients include: Spice Rub, 6 chicken leg quarters (leg and thigh separated), 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried marjoram, and more.

Yes, Classic Southern Buttermilk Bathed Fried Chicken falls under the Drinks & Smoothies category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and enjoy within 1–2 days for the best freshness. Best served cold — no reheating needed.

That's it — enjoy your meal!