Have you ever craved that unforgettable taste of Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken but thought, “Hey, why not make this at home?” Well, guess what? You’re in luck because I’m about to share a secret recipe that’s going to bring that iconic flavor right into your kitchen. And don’t worry; you don’t need to be a master chef to pull this off. I’ve got your back every step of the way, making sure your culinary adventure is as smooth as that first bite of juicy chicken.
Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken Overview
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s get a quick peek at what we’re about to embark on:
- Course: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
- Total Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Equipment Needed
Before we start our quest for the ultimate chicken recipe, make sure you’ve got all the tools ready. Crafting Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken requires a bit of preparation. You’ll need:
- A large mixing bowl
- A sturdy whisk or fork
- A deep fryer or a large, deep skillet
- A kitchen thermometer
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- A wire rack
Ingredients for Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
Now, let’s talk ingredients. We’re aiming for that perfect blend of flavors, so here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken pieces | 8 pieces |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 2 teaspoons |
| White pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Egg | 1, beaten |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
Fact: Did you know that paprika not only adds flavor but also gives our chicken that iconic golden hue? It’s all about hitting the right notes for both your taste buds and eyes!
Step by Step Instructions
Now, for the heart of our recipe: the steps to achieve that golden, crispy, and tender Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken. Follow these, and you’re in for a treat.
Preparing the Chicken
- Combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, white pepper, salt, and ground mustard in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and buttermilk.
- Dip each piece of chicken first into the buttermilk mixture, then into the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
- Allow the chicken to sit on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This helps the coating stick better.
Letting the chicken sit before frying is like letting tea steep. It’s all about patience for that perfect flavor and crunch.
Frying the Chicken
- Heat the oil in your deep fryer or skillet to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is key to cooking the chicken perfectly inside without burning the outside.
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd them; cook in batches if needed.
- Fry for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken pieces from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This keeps it crispy, not greasy.
Additional Tips for Perfect Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
- For an extra crispy crust, you can double dip the chicken pieces in the buttermilk and flour mixture.
- Keep an eye on the oil temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Serving suggestion: Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Nutrition in Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
Let’s look at what we’re getting into with each bite, nutrition-wise:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 940mg |
These values are approximations. Actual nutrition can vary based on specific ingredients used.
What Makes Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken Delicious
It’s not just about following a recipe to the letter; it’s the little secrets that make Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken a household name. It’s the perfect blend of spices, the crunch of the coating, and, of course, the juicy tenderness of the chicken.
A touch of white pepper adds a gentle heat that sneaks up on you, creating a beautiful balance with the other spices. It’s this meticulous harmony that dances on your taste buds, making each bite a delightful experience.
FAQs about Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake it for a healthier option.
How do I ensure my chicken is juicy and not dry?
The key is not to overcook it. Keep a kitchen thermometer handy to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) – this ensures it’s cooked through but still juicy.
What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you’re out of buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk. Before using, let it sit for approximately five minutes.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can coat the chicken and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight. This can actually help the coating adhere better and result in a crispier texture.
Is it possible to make Lee’s Famous Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
Crafting your own batch of Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken at home is not just about feeding your stomach; it’s about satisfying your soul. It’s about creating those moments of joy, bite by bite, in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether it’s a family dinner, a special occasion, or just a craving for something deliciously crispy and tender, this recipe promises to deliver.
So, go ahead, give it your best shot, and don’t forget to share your experiences, questions, or feedback in the comments below. Your culinary adventure awaits, and I can’t wait to hear all about it!
Check out some more delicious appetizer recipes:
- Zaxby’s Fries Seasoning Recipe: A Side of Humor with Your Spuds
- Ponderosa Chicken Wings Recipe: A Culinary Adventure
- Chilindrina Food Recipe: A Delicious Mexican Snack
- Wegmans Garlic Tuscan Bread Recipe: A Culinary Journey
- Papas Locas Recipe: Dive into Flavor Paradise
- Red Lobster Sausage Balls Recipe: A Culinary Delight
Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
Equipment
- A large mixing bowl
- A sturdy whisk or fork
- A deep fryer or a large, deep skillet
- A kitchen thermometer
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- A wire rack
Ingredients
- 8 Chicken pieces
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Paprika
- 1 teaspoon White pepper
- 2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground mustard
- 1 Egg beaten
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, white pepper, salt, and ground mustard in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and buttermilk.
- Dip each piece of chicken first into the buttermilk mixture, then into the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
- Allow the chicken to sit on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This helps the coating stick better.
- Letting the chicken sit before frying is like letting tea steep. It’s all about patience for that perfect flavor and crunch.
Frying the Chicken
- Heat the oil in your deep fryer or skillet to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is key to cooking the chicken perfectly inside without burning the outside.
- Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd them; cook in batches if needed.
- Fry for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken pieces from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This keeps it crispy, not greasy.
Notes
- For an extra crispy crust, you can double dip the chicken pieces in the buttermilk and flour mixture.
- Keep an eye on the oil temperature to ensure even cooking.
- Serving suggestion: Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
