How to Make Country Style Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Delicious and Crispy Dish

Country style chicken is a popular dish that originated in the Southern United States. It is known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, making it a favorite among chicken lovers. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make country style chicken that is both delicious and crispy.

What is Country Style Chicken?

Country style chicken is a type of fried chicken that is made with a mixture of flour, spices, and herbs. The chicken is typically dredged in a seasoned flour mixture, then fried in a skillet until crispy and golden brown. The dish is often served with a side of mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits.

History of Country Style Chicken

Country style chicken has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine. The dish is believed to have originated in the rural areas of the South, where cooks would fry chicken in a skillet over an open fire. The dish was often served at family gatherings and community events, where it was a staple of the menu.

Ingredients Needed

To make country style chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, and breasts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Optional Ingredients

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary)
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped bacon

Instructions

To make country style chicken, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat or skin from the chicken.

Step 2: Make the Seasoned Flour Mixture

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken in the Seasoned Flour Mixture

Dredge the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the flour mixture.

Step 4: Dip the Chicken in Buttermilk

Dip the floured chicken pieces in the buttermilk, making sure they are fully submerged. Let the chicken sit in the buttermilk for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Dredge the Chicken in the Seasoned Flour Mixture Again

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture again. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the flour mixture.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Drain the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you make the best country style chicken:

Tips for Making Country Style Chicken

• Use a cast-iron skillet to fry the chicken, as it retains heat well and can achieve a crispy crust on the chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature (350°F).
• Don’t overcook the chicken, as this can make it dry and tough.

Variations of Country Style Chicken

• Nashville Hot Chicken: Add a spicy kick to your country style chicken by sprinkling it with a spicy seasoning blend, such as Nashville hot chicken seasoning.
• Buffalo-Style Country Chicken: Add a buffalo-style twist to your country style chicken by tossing it in buffalo sauce and serving it with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.
• Country Style Chicken Tenders: Make country style chicken tenders by cutting the chicken into strips and dredging them in the seasoned flour mixture. Fry the tenders until crispy and serve with dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Country style chicken is a delicious and crispy dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich history and flavorful ingredients, it’s no wonder why this dish is a staple of Southern cuisine. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make country style chicken that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the crispy, juicy goodness of country style chicken for yourself.

Country Style Chicken Recipe

Here is a summary of the country style chicken recipe:

Note: This recipe makes 4-6 servings. You can adjust the amount of ingredients based on your needs.

What is Country Style Chicken and How Does it Differ from Other Chicken Dishes?

Country style chicken is a popular American dish that originated in the Southern United States. It is characterized by its crispy exterior and juicy interior, typically made with chicken pieces such as legs, thighs, and breasts that are breaded and deep-fried. The dish differs from other chicken dishes in its cooking method, which involves dredging the chicken pieces in a mixture of flour, spices, and herbs before frying, resulting in a crunchy and flavorful crust.

The country style chicken recipe also often includes a marinade or seasoning step, where the chicken is soaked in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, and spices to add flavor and tenderize the meat. This step is what sets country style chicken apart from other fried chicken dishes, as it adds a depth of flavor and moisture to the meat that is hard to achieve with other cooking methods.

What are the Essential Ingredients Needed to Make Country Style Chicken?

The essential ingredients needed to make country style chicken include chicken pieces, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, eggs, buttermilk, hot sauce, and a blend of spices and herbs such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You will also need vegetable oil for frying, and optional ingredients such as butter or lard for added flavor.

It’s also important to note that the quality of the ingredients can affect the final result of the dish. Using fresh and high-quality chicken, spices, and herbs will result in a more flavorful and tender final product. Additionally, using the right type of flour, such as all-purpose flour, is crucial for achieving the right texture and crunch on the exterior of the chicken.

How Do I Prepare the Chicken for Country Style Chicken?

To prepare the chicken for country style chicken, start by rinsing the chicken pieces under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Then, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. Next, soak the chicken in a marinade made with buttermilk, hot sauce, and spices for at least 30 minutes to an hour.

After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk mixture and dredge it in a mixture of flour, cornstarch, and spices, shaking off any excess. This step is crucial for creating the crunchy exterior and flavorful crust on the chicken. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly and thoroughly, but avoid overcoating, which can result in a greasy and heavy final product.

What is the Best Way to Fry Country Style Chicken?

The best way to fry country style chicken is to use a deep frying method, where the chicken is fully submerged in hot oil. This method allows for even cooking and helps to achieve the crispy exterior and juicy interior that country style chicken is known for.

To fry the chicken, heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil and fry for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces and drain on paper towels.

Can I Bake Country Style Chicken Instead of Frying It?

Yes, you can bake country style chicken instead of frying it. Baking is a healthier alternative to frying and can still result in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. To bake country style chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F and place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Drizzle the chicken with a little bit of oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can also broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a crisper exterior. Keep in mind that baking will result in a slightly different texture and flavor than frying, but it can still be a delicious and satisfying alternative.

How Do I Serve Country Style Chicken?

Country style chicken is often served as a main dish, accompanied by sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits. You can also serve it with a variety of sauces, such as gravy, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.

Additionally, country style chicken can be served as a sandwich, with the chicken pieces placed on a bun and topped with lettuce, tomato, and pickles. It’s also a popular choice for picnics and barbecues, as it’s easy to transport and serve. Whatever way you choose to serve it, country style chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Can I Make Country Style Chicken Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make country style chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to do so in stages. You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken with the flour mixture up to a day in advance, but it’s best to fry or bake the chicken just before serving.

If you need to make the chicken ahead of time, you can fry or bake it and then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve. Simply reheat the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop until it’s crispy and hot. Keep in mind that the chicken may not be as crispy as when it’s freshly made, but it can still be a convenient and delicious option for meal prep or leftovers.