Country Fried Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Proteins

01 - 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

→ Oils & Fats

02 - 1 ½ cups vegetable oil

→ Marinade

03 - 2 cups buttermilk
04 - 2 large eggs, whisked
05 - 3 teaspoons salt

→ Breading

06 - 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour
07 - ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
08 - 2 ½ teaspoons seasoned salt
09 - ¾ teaspoon paprika
10 - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
11 - 1 ½ teaspoon black pepper

# Instructions:

01 - Cover each chicken breast with plastic wrap. Use a meat tenderizer to pound the chicken flat, about 1.3 cm thick.
02 - Pat the chicken completely dry. Combine the whisked eggs, salt, and buttermilk in a bowl. Add the chicken and marinate for 1-2 hours (or overnight) for maximum tenderness.
03 - Remove chicken from refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for 25-30 minutes before frying.
04 - Transfer each piece of marinated chicken to the breading mixture just before frying. Flip several times, ensuring the coating adheres to all surfaces until completely dry and well-coated.
05 - Heat oil in a skillet to 175°C (350°F), adding enough to cover chicken halfway. Use a cast iron skillet if possible for optimal heat conduction.
06 - Carefully add chicken pieces one at a time and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. When edges begin to brown nicely, gently flip with a thin spatula.
07 - Once browned on both sides, transfer to a wire cooling rack to allow excess oil to drain. This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy. Serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Buttermilk can be substituted by adding 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar to 2 cups of regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
02 - For best results, bread each piece of chicken immediately before frying rather than breading all pieces at once.