Golden Chick has carved out a special spot for itself with its irresistibly crispy and flavorful fried chicken. I’ve always been a fan of their delicious offerings and wondered if I could bring that same magic into my own kitchen.
After countless trials and a bit of culinary creativity, I finally developed a Golden Chick copycat recipe that captures the essence of their famous dishes. Whether you’re craving their signature crunch or the juicy tenderness of their chicken, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks)
Marinade:
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Breading:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own Golden Chick copycat fried chicken. Each stage is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy and flavorful finish.
Prep
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of buttermilk with 2 tablespoons of hot sauce.
- Add 10 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
- Prepare the Breading Mixture
- In a separate shallow dish, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour with:
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Stir until all spices are evenly distributed.
Cook
- Heat the Oil
- Pour enough vegetable oil into a large deep skillet or Dutch oven to reach a depth of about 3 inches.
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a kitchen thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Fry the Chicken
- Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge the chicken thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 15-18 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Rest
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Assemble
- Prepare for Serving
- Arrange the rested chicken pieces on a large platter or serving tray.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve Hot
- Serve the golden, crispy fried chicken immediately with your favorite sides such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob.
- Enjoy the satisfying crunch and rich flavors that rival your favorite Golden Chick experience!
Tools Needed
To recreate Golden Chick’s crispy fried chicken, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large Mixing Bowls: Ideal for marinating the chicken and combining the breading ingredients.
- Whisk: Helps blend the marinade smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for consistent flavor.
- Deep Fryer or Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: Essential for maintaining the right oil temperature during frying.
- Thermometer: Keeps the oil between 350°F and 375°F for perfect crispiness.
- Tongs: Allow safe and easy handling of the chicken pieces while frying.
- Cooling Rack: Lets excess oil drain off, keeping the chicken crispy.
- Paper Towels: Absorb any remaining oil after frying.
- Plate or Platter: For arranging the finished chicken before serving.
Having these tools on hand will streamline the cooking process and help you achieve that authentic Golden Chick texture and flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing your Golden Chick copycat fried chicken ahead of time can save you effort and ensure a delicious meal when you’re ready to serve. Here are my top tips to make the process seamless:
Marinate in Advance
Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors and tenderizes the meat. Combine buttermilk and hot sauce in a large resealable bag. Add the chicken pieces, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least four hours or overnight. This step enhances the juiciness and ensures every bite is flavorful.
Prepare the Breading Mix Early
Mix the flour with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and other seasonings a day before cooking. Store the seasoned flour in an airtight container at room temperature. Having the breading ready in advance streamlines the breading process, allowing you to coat the marinated chicken quickly and efficiently.
Assemble and Refrigerate
After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and let any excess liquid drip off. Dredge the chicken in the prepared breading mix, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate uncovered. This step helps the coating adhere better, resulting in a crispier texture when fried.
Fry and Freeze for Later
If you prefer to prepare in bulk, fry the chicken in advance and freeze it for future meals. Allow the fried chicken to cool completely on a cooling rack to prevent sogginess. Once cooled, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Freeze for up to three months. To reheat, bake the frozen chicken at 375°F until heated through and crispy.
Store Properly
Whether you’re marinating, breading, or storing fried chicken, proper storage is crucial. Keep marinated and breaded chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Fried chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Ensure all components are properly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent cross-contamination.
Reheat with Care
When ready to enjoy your make-ahead chicken, reheating correctly ensures it retains its original texture and flavor. For refrigerated chicken, reheat in a preheated 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes until crispy and heated through. If reheating frozen chicken, increase the time to 25-30 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Quick Reference Table
| Preparation Step | Time Required | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Marinating | 4 hours or overnight | Up to 2 days in refrigerator |
| Preparing Breading Mix | 15 minutes | Up to 1 week in airtight container |
| Assembling and Refrigerating | 30 minutes | Up to 2 days in refrigerator |
| Frying and Freezing | 1 hour | Up to 3 months in freezer |
| Reheating (Refrigerated) | 15-20 minutes | N/A |
| Reheating (Frozen) | 25-30 minutes | N/A |
By following these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy Golden Chick’s delicious fried chicken anytime with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing meals for the week, these strategies ensure your chicken remains crispy, flavorful, and satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
Elevating your Golden Chick copycat fried chicken experience starts with thoughtful pairings and presentation. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this crispy delight:
Classic Sides
- Creamy Coleslaw
The tangy crunch of coleslaw complements the savory chicken perfectly. I like to mix shredded cabbage with a dressing of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, a touch of sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Mashed Potatoes
Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast. For extra flavor, whip in roasted garlic or a splash of chicken broth.
- Buttermilk Biscuits
Fluffy biscuits are ideal for soaking up any leftover juices. Serve them warm with a pat of melting butter.
- Macaroni and Cheese
Rich and cheesy macaroni brings a hearty element to the meal. A crispy breadcrumb topping adds an irresistible texture.
Perfect Beverages
- Sweet Tea
A glass of ice-cold sweet tea balances the savory flavors with its refreshing sweetness.
- Lemonade
Freshly squeezed lemonade offers a zesty contrast that brightens each bite.
- Beer
A crisp lager or light ale pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, enhancing the meal’s overall enjoyment.
Presentation Tips
- Platter Arrangement
Arrange the fried chicken on a large, colorful platter, interspersed with side dishes. This creates an inviting and visually appealing centerpiece.
- Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the chicken for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serving Utensils
Provide sturdy, easy-to-use utensils such as tongs and serving spoons to make self-serving seamless and enjoyable.
Additional Ideas
- Dipping Sauces
Offer a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy ranch, or tangy barbecue to add extra flavor dimensions.
- Pickles and Pickled Vegetables
The acidity of pickles cuts through the richness of the fried chicken, adding a pleasant tang to each bite.
- Cornbread
A slice of moist cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and complements the savory elements of the meal.
By thoughtfully selecting sides, beverages, and presentation elements, you can create a memorable and satisfying meal that showcases your Golden Chick copycat fried chicken at its best.
Conclusion
Replicating Golden Chick’s crispy fried chicken in my own kitchen has been a delightful experience. Seeing everyone savor each bite makes all the effort so rewarding.
This recipe has become a staple for gatherings and family meals. The balance of flavors and perfect crunch never fails to impress.
I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious fried chicken as much as I do. Here’s to creating memorable meals at home!
