Today on Epicurious we have Crispy Butter Chicken- tender, succulent marinated chicken, lightly fried, and drenched in a buttery sauce. This dish balances crust, creamy, textures, and flavors, making it a great option for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Dual Texture! The crispy crust with juicy and flavored chicken will provide a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Delicious Marinade: A well-spiced marinade gives depth of flavor that penetrates every piece.
Versatile Butter Sauce: A buttery glaze with delicate sweetness and a tang that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.
Ingredients | Click for FREE e-Book..
- For the Chicken Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Crispy Coating
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Butter Sauce
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are completely covered with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or longer; overnight is suggested for best flavor.
Prepare the Crispy Coating
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and black pepper, and whisk together. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Well dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing down somewhat to cause it to stick.good
Fry the Chicken
Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep-skillet or a heavy-bottomed pot and heat to 350°F (175°C). Most point to the hot oil, and gently add the coated chicken pieces, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165F (75C) When the chicken is cooked, remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
Prepare the Butter Sauce
Place unsalted butter into a small saucepan over medium heat and let melt. Stir in the minced garlic (and red chili flakes, if using), then cook until fragrant, 1-2 minutes more. Whisk in the honey, lemon juice and soy sauce until thoroughly combined and the mixture has thickened slightly.
Combine and Serve
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried chicken pieces to a big bowl. Drizzle the butter sauce over the chicken, turning gently to coat each piece completely. Serve right away with your favorite sides: mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a nice garden salad.
Serving Suggestions🙋
Mashed Potatoes: Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, a comforting base for the rich flavors of the chicken.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans or asparagus provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the meal.
Green Salad: A simple green salad of mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, with a light vinaigrette.
Variations and Tips
Spicy Kick: For a spicier profile, add more red chili flakes, or a squirt of hot sauce to the butter sauce.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme or rosemary to the butter sauce for an aromatic twist.
Baking Alternative: If you want to cut back on oil, bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Line then in a single layer and bake, turning halfway, until crispy and cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To keep crispiness, reheat chicken in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Or, an air fryer set to 375F
Crispy Butter Chicken Pros and Cons
Pros👍
✔ Out of this world flavor — You just cannot beat this crispy chicken and buttery-rich sauce.
✔ Playful Recipe – Have options for deep frying, baking or air frying as per different lifestyles.
✔ Ideal Texture – Crunchy outer layer, still juicy and soft in the center.
✔ Ideal for Every Meal Type – Whether for relaxed meals or special occasions
✔ Customisable — can be made spicier, milder or even with a variety of herbs and seasonings.
Cons👎
✘ Heavy On Calories – Due to frying and butter, this dish is the least healthiest option.
✘ Takes Time – Needs to be marinated, coated, and fried which is time-consuming.
✘ Finally, A Messy Cooking Process – If you are frying, oil can splatter; Cleaning may also require additional effort.
✘ Not Vegan – Includes dairy (buttermilk and butter) that might not suit your plant-based meal preference.
✘ Best Fresh — It can be stored but is best eaten freshly cooked for crispy texture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I make the crispy butter chicken without frying?
Yes! You can bake or air-fry your chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, respectively, until golden and crispy.
2. How do I ensure the chicken stays crispy once cooked?
For a crispy finish, don’t put the fried chicken on paper towels, but put it on a wire rack. Heat up leftovers in the oven or air fryer — not the microwave.
3. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
True, but thighs are juicier, and more favorable, too.
NOTE: If using chicken breasts, you want to marinate the pieces well to ensure it doesn’t turn out dry.
4.What oil is best for frying crispy butter chicken?
For best results — high smoking point oils, like vegetable oil, peanut oil or canola oil.
5. Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! For extra heat: Add more chili flakes, cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the butter sauce.
6. How long do I need to marinate the chicken?
To maximize flavor and tenderness, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, overnight is perfect.
7. Can I refrigerate or freeze crispy butter chicken?
Yes! Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three days. To reheat, use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or an air fryer set at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Here are some side dishes you can serve with crispy butter chicken.
It’s also good with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, to cut some of the richness.
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