Crispy Fried Chicken and French Fries with Dipping Sauces

Nothing beats the classic combination of crispy fried chicken and golden French fries, especially when served with a variety of delicious dipping sauces. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or craving comfort food, this recipe will guide you to achieving perfectly crispy chicken and fries at home.

Ingredients:

For the Fried Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the French Fries:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauces:

• Classic Ketchup
• Honey Mustard (¼ cup mustard, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp mayo, pinch of salt)
• Garlic Aioli (½ cup mayo, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp lemon juice, pinch of salt)
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo (½ cup mayo, 2 tbsp Sriracha, 1 tsp lime juice)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
2. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge in the flour mixture, and shake off excess.
5. Fry the chicken in batches for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and keep warm.

Step 2: Prepare the French Fries

1. Peel and cut potatoes into thin fries. Soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
2. Drain and pat dry, then toss with cornstarch.
3. Heat oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potatoes in batches for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and drain.
4. Increase the heat to 400°F (205°C) and fry again for 2-3 minutes until crispy and deep golden brown.
5. Season with salt and black pepper immediately after frying.

Step 3: Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Arrange the crispy fried chicken and French fries on a checkerboard platter for a fun presentation.
• Serve with ketchup, honey mustard, garlic aioli, and spicy Sriracha mayo.
• Enjoy this irresistible meal with friends and family!

Pro Tips:

• Double frying the fries ensures maximum crispiness.
• Use a thermometer to maintain the right frying temperature for both chicken and fries.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
• Try different dips like BBQ sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing for more variety.

Enjoy your homemade crispy fried chicken and French fries with the perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and dipping goodness!