- Baking Soda (Keywords: baking soda, leavening agent)
- Honey (Keywords: honey, sweetener)
- Lemon Juice (Keywords: lemon juice, acidity boost)
(Note: This list includes a variety of ingredients typically used in recipes that resemble those by chef Cindy Cardenas, known for her southern-inspired fried chicken. Each ingredient is listed with relevant keywords to optimize search engine visibility and provide detailed information.)
Steps
### How to Make CindyDs Southern-Style Fried Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
#### Ingredients:
- 4 pounds of fresh chicken pieces (thighs, breasts, legs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to preference)
- Vegetable oil for frying
#### Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Deep fryer or large pot with a deep-fat thermometer
- Tongs or slotted spoon
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prep the Chicken:**
- Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. **Prepare the Batter:**
- In another large bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- After the chicken has marinated, remove from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
3. **Coat the Chicken:**
- Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture until fully coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
4. **Preheat Oil:**
- Fill a deep fryer or large pot with vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a deep-fat thermometer for precise temperature control.
5. **Fry the Chicken:**
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry each batch until golden brown and fully cooked through—about 8-10 minutes per side. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn the chicken halfway through cooking.
6. **Drain and Serve:**
- Once done frying, remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Allow the chicken to drain any excess oil for about 5 minutes before serving.
### Tips for Perfect Southern-Style Fried Chicken:
- **Buttermilk Marination:** The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat, making the chicken juicy and flavorful.
- **Oil Temperature:** Maintaining a consistent frying temperature is crucial to achieving crispy exterior and tender interior.
- **Flour Mixture:** Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences; you can add more or less paprika, cayenne pepper, or other spices.
### SEO-Friendly Keywords:
- Southern-style fried chicken
- CindyDs recipe
- Buttermilk marinated chicken
- Homemade fried chicken
- Southern cooking techniques
- Chicken frying tips
Enjoy this delicious and crispy version of southern-style fried chicken! Perfect for family gatherings or casual dining.