Ah, there’s nothing quite like digging into a plate of Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken. I’m thrilled to share this delight with you today. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that have been cherished over generations. Let’s get right into the meat of it—figuratively and literally!

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before we jump into the frying pan, here’s the gear you’ll need to craft this masterpiece. This isn’t just about getting the job done; it’s about making Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken sing on your taste buds:

Large frying pan or deep fryer
Tongs
Meat thermometer
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

Let’s gather the troops—the ingredients! We’ll be using a mix of spices and quality chicken to bring that iconic taste to your table. Here’s what you need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken, cut into pieces	8 pieces
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Cornstarch	1/2 cup
Garlic powder	2 tsp
Onion powder	2 tsp
Paprika	1 tbsp
White pepper	1 tsp
Salt	2 tsp
Buttermilk	2 cups
Egg	1, beaten
Cooking oil	For frying

Fact: Did you know that the secret to the crispiness of Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken lies not just in the ingredients but in the double dredging process? Yes, that extra coat makes all the difference!

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together buttermilk, egg, 1 teaspoon of salt, and white pepper in a large bowl.
Submerge the chicken pieces in the mixture and let them marinate in the fridge for at least an hour.

Note: Marinating the chicken not only flavors it but also tenderizes it, ensuring that every bite is juicy and delicious.

Step 2 – Mix the Coating

In another large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and the remaining salt.
Mix these thoroughly to get an even blend.

Step 3 – Dredge the Chicken

Let the extra marinade drip off the chicken after taking it out of the bowl.
Cover all of the pieces with the flour mixture. For that extra crunch, dip it once more in the buttermilk and then again in the flour.

Additional Tips

For an even fry, do not overcrowd the pan; it lowers the oil’s temperature, resulting in soggy chicken.
Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet to keep it crispy.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken with:

A side of creamy coleslaw
Buttery mashed potatoes
Freshly baked biscuits

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	650
Total Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	1300mg
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	2g
Sugars	6g
Protein	45g

Approximation: Please note that these values can vary significantly based on alterations to the recipe and portion sizes.

Dietary Information

This dish is perfect for meat lovers and those who do not have dietary restrictions related to gluten. To adapt this recipe for gluten-sensitive eaters, replace all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

FAQs about Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken

What’s the best oil for frying?

Canola or vegetable oil due to their high smoke points, ensuring a crispy finish without any burnt taste.

Can I bake Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely! Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes, until golden and crisp. It’s a healthier option with less mess!

How long can I store the fried chicken?

If you store it right, it will last in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Put it back in the oven to keep it crispy.

What’s the secret to the perfect crust?

Double dredging is key—ensure each piece is coated, dipped again in buttermilk, and coated once more for that signature crunch.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can marinate and coat the chicken up to a day in advance. Put it in the fridge with a lid on top until you’re ready to fry it.

How do I ensure the chicken cooks evenly?

Keep the oil at a consistent 350°F and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Why is my fried chicken not crispy?

It could be due to the oil temperature being too low or too high. Use a thermometer to keep it just right.

Conclusion

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a tradition packed with flavor and memories. Try making Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken at home and see just how satisfying it can be to bring such a beloved dish to your own table.

It would be great to hear how it went for you! Drop a comment below with your thoughts, questions, or any feedback. Let’s keep the culinary conversation going!

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