There’s something irresistibly joyous about the sound of sizzling chicken in hot oil that transforms any kitchen into a hub of warmth and comfort. This Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken recipe is my go-to for those moments when I crave something crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside—bringing a favorite classic to the gluten-sensitive table without sacrificing a crumb of flavor.
While we all love the convenience of fast food, there’s truly nothing like the satisfaction of making a homemade meal that delights the senses. The layers of spices in the crispy coating perfectly meld with the succulent chicken, creating a dish that’s not only impressive to serve but also incredibly simple to whip up. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply looking to infuse your weeknight dinners with a touch of soul, this fried chicken is sure to please everyone around the table. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this finger-lickin’ adventure!
Why is Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity Meets Flavor: This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for busy weeks.
Irresistibly Crunchy: The unique combination of gluten-free flour and herbs creates a spectacularly crispy crust that holds its texture—no sogginess here!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This chicken is sure to impress guests at your next gathering, proving that gluten-free doesn’t mean flavor-free.
Versatile Meal Option: Serve it alongside your favorite sides or make it the star of a salad; the possibilities are endless!
Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep work, you’ll have a delicious homemade meal ready to enjoy in no time.
Enjoy your fried chicken experience, and for more exciting gluten-free dishes, check out our gluten-free recipes to keep your meals delightful and safe!
Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to making your own crispy gluten free fried chicken!
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken drumsticks – Choose skin-on for maximum flavor and moisture.
- 4 chicken thighs – Bone-in pieces are juicier and more forgiving when frying.
- oil of choice for frying – A high smoke point oil like peanut or canola is ideal for frying.
For the Marinade
- 2 cups buttermilk – This not only tenderizes the chicken but adds a lovely tang.
- 1 egg – Helps to bind the flour to the chicken for a better coating.
- 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce – Add it for that perfect kick and enhanced flavor.
For the Coating
- 1 ½ leveled cups gluten-free all-purpose flour – Essential for achieving that crunchy texture without gluten.
- ½ cup cornstarch – Increases the crispiness of the coating for that desired crunch.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – A flavorful boost that elevates the entire dish.
- ½ tablespoon onion powder – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the coating.
- ¼ tablespoon smoked paprika – Introducing a hint of smokiness that compliments the chicken beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Adjust to your heat preference for a kick of spice.
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt – Enhances and balances the flavors throughout the dish.
Get ready to make a batch of this delightful Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken
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Whisk Together: In a bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce until well combined. This tangy marinade will ensure each piece of chicken is flavorful and tender.
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Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, combine gluten-free flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. This spice blend will create a deliciously crispy crust.
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Heat the Oil: In a Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet, heat about 1″ of oil to 350°F. As the oil heats, place a wire cooling rack over a thick layer of paper towels for drainage.
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Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated. Then, dredge each piece in the flour mixture until thoroughly covered—this is the key to amazing crunch!
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Fry the Chicken: Carefully add 3-4 pieces of chicken to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 15 minutes, turning every 2 minutes, until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160-162°F.
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Rest and Serve: Use tongs to transfer the fried chicken to the wire cooling rack. Let it rest for a few minutes to reach optimal temperature. Repeat for all chicken pieces and enjoy warm.
Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken in advance can save valuable time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, allowing it to tenderize and absorb flavor. Additionally, you can pre-mix the dry coating ingredients (gluten-free flour, cornstarch, and spices) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the prepped coating and fry as directed. This method not only enhances convenience but also ensures that your chicken remains just as delicious and juicy when served!
What to Serve with Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken?
Pair your crispy chicken with delightful accompaniments that enhance its flavors and create a satisfying meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety consistency pairs beautifully with crispy crust, providing a comforting contrast. A hint of garlic elevates traditional mashed potatoes to a whole new level.
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Coleslaw: Crunchy and tangy slaw cuts through the richness of fried chicken, offering a refreshing balance. Its vibrant crunch makes it a standout side and a colorful addition to your plate.
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Honey Butter Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread with a drizzle of honey is the perfect accompaniment. This delightful pairing adds a touch of sweetness, enhancing the savory elements of the chicken.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts add a nutritional boost and sweetness to your meal. Their caramelized edges complement the spices in your fried chicken wonderfully.
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Southern-style Baked Beans: Their smoky flavor and hearty texture complement the chicken’s crispiness perfectly. Plus, they bring a comforting, homey feel that ties the meal together beautifully.
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Sweet Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sweet tea or zesty lemonade balances the richness of the chicken. Their bright flavors make for a classic southern pairing that delights the palate.
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Fruit Salad: A light, fruity salad introduces a refreshing element to your meal. A mix of sweet melons, berries, and citrus balances the savoriness of the fried chicken.
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Apple Pie: To finish your meal, a warm slice of apple pie is the quintessential dessert. Its buttery crust and spiced apple filling create a nostalgic ending to your comforting dinner.
The right combinations can elevate your dining experience, making your Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken meal truly unforgettable!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken
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Room Temperature: Allow any leftover fried chicken to cool completely before covering loosely with foil. Consume within 2 hours for best quality.
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to restore crispiness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pieces individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 3 months for optimal taste and texture.
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Reheating: To reheat frozen crispy gluten free fried chicken, bake directly from frozen at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Helpful Tricks for Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken
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Proper Marination: Ensure chicken is marinated for at least one hour for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion. This step is crucial for achieving the best crispy gluten free fried chicken.
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Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F. Too hot can burn the coating, while too cool leads to greasy chicken.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches, allowing enough space between pieces. Overcrowding lowers oil temperature, making your coating soggy rather than crispy.
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Resting Time: Let chicken rest on a wire rack after frying. This prevents steam from making the crust soggy and helps maintain that delightful crunch.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs in the coating to customize your crispy gluten free fried chicken to suit your taste!
Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore and give your crispy fried chicken a delightful twist that suits your tastes!
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Herbed Twist: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour mixture for an aromatic boost.
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Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of chili powder for a fiery flavor that will wake up your taste buds.
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Cornmeal Crunch: Substitute half of the gluten-free flour with cornmeal for an extra crunchy texture and unique flavor profile.
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Paleo-friendly: Swap the flour for almond flour to create a nutty version that’s perfect for Paleo diets. Light and crispy!
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Sweet & Savory: Incorporate a tablespoon of brown sugar into the flour mix to balance the spices with a hint of sweetness.
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Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add more garlic powder or roast some fresh garlic to mash into the buttermilk for an irresistible garlicky essence.
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Asian Inspiration: Mix soy sauce or sesame oil into the buttermilk for an Asian-inspired fried chicken that packs a flavorful punch.
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Maple Flavor: Drizzle a bit of pure maple syrup over the chicken just before serving for a delightful sweet contrast to the savory crunch.
Let these variations inspire you to create your own versions of this beloved dish, perfect for every occasion!
Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using bone-in, skin-on pieces like drumsticks and thighs. The skin adds moisture while frying, ensuring your crispy gluten free fried chicken remains juicy inside. Look for pieces that are plump and vibrant in color, avoiding any with dark spots.
What’s the best way to store leftover fried chicken?
For maximum freshness, let leftover fried chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. This method helps regain the crispy coating we all crave!
Can I freeze the leftover fried chicken, and how?
Yes, you can freeze your crispy gluten free fried chicken! First, allow it to cool completely. Then, lay the chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid—this typically takes about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. For the best taste and texture, consume within 3 months.
What if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying?
Very common! If your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, check the oil temperature; it should be around 350°F. If the oil is too cool, the coating may absorb grease instead of forming a crisp shell. Additionally, always refrain from overcrowding the frying pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Consider frying in batches for that perfect crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! Since we’re using gluten-free flour and cornstarch, this recipe is suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. However, ensure that your chicken broth and hot sauce are gluten-free to maintain safety for those with celiac disease. For those with allergies, always double-check your ingredient labels, particularly the hot sauce, to avoid any allergens. It’s important to cook in a safe environment to cater to special dietary needs!
Perfectly Crispy Gluten Free Fried Chicken You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce in a bowl until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine gluten-free flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt.
- Heat about 1" of oil in a Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet to 350°F.
- Dip each chicken piece in the buttermilk mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture until thoroughly covered.
- Fry 3-4 pieces of chicken in the hot oil for about 15 minutes, turning every 2 minutes, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 160-162°F.
- Transfer fried chicken to a wire cooling rack to let it rest for a few minutes.