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Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken

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This Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken recipe brings the crispy, seasoned goodness of Church’s right to your kitchen. With a flavorful coating, tender chicken, and the perfect balance of crunch and juiciness, it’s a fried chicken lover’s dream.

Ingredients

  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, or a combination)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Place the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture, making sure each piece is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours.

  1. Prepare the Coating:
    In a separate shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and baking powder. Mix well.
  2. Double Dip (Optional for Extra Crispy Texture):
    For an extra crispy coating, dip each piece of chicken back into the buttermilk mixture, then coat it again in the flour mixture.
  3. Fry the Chicken:
    Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces, a few at a time, and fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  4. Serve and Enjoy:
    Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.

Notes

  1. For extra crunch, try double-dipping the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture.
  2. For a healthier alternative, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. If you prefer a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture.
  4. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/copycat-churchs-chicken-fried-chicken/