Indulge in the perfect fusion of Southern charm and culinary creativity with our Sweet Tea Fried Chicken recipe. Immerse the chicken in a sweet tea brine, infusing it with a hint of sweetness and a touch of Southern hospitality. The result? Crispy, golden-brown perfection that’s both succulent and flavorful.
Brining the Chicken:
Submerge chicken pieces in a mixture of sweet tea and buttermilk. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Dredging and Coating:
In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create the coating mixture.
Remove chicken from the brine and let excess liquid drain off.
Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
Frying to Perfection:
Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully place coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying in batches until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Draining and Resting:
Place fried chicken on a wire rack to allow excess oil to drain.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.
Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve alongside your favorite Southern sides like collard greens, macaroni and cheese, or cornbread.
