Hello Foodies! Welcome to Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe. Lee’s Famous Chicken is a renowned dish known for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy meat inside. While the exact recipe may vary, it typically involves marinating chicken pieces in buttermilk and hot sauce, coating them in a seasoned flour mixture, and deep-frying until perfectly cooked.
In this post, I am going to cover Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe along with its ingredients, equipment, storage techniques, nutritional information, and much more!
Introduction to Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe
Lee’s Famous Chicken has become a household name, synonymous with comfort, flavor, and satisfaction. Crafted with care and perfected over generations, this iconic recipe is cherished by food enthusiasts worldwide.
Recipe Overview
- Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes per batch
- Prep Time: About 20 minutes, plus marinating time
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American/Southern
History and Origin
Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe traces its roots back to a small kitchen, where Lee’s passion for cooking first took flight. Drawing inspiration from family recipes and local flavors, Lee set out to create a dish that would capture the essence of home.
After years of experimentation and refinement, Lee’s Famous Chicken was born, a testament to perseverance and dedication.
How does Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe Taste?
To me, the first bite of Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe is a flavor explosion – crispy, crunchy goodness giving way to succulent, juicy meat bursting with savory spices.
It’s like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds, leaving me craving more with every bite.
The perfect balance of texture and seasoning makes it an irresistible indulgence that satisfies my cravings like no other.
Ingredients Required
Below, I have given the ingredients needed to make Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (preferably bone-in, skin-on) | 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces |
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Paprika | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | 2 cups |
| Hot sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
These are the main ingredients you’ll need to prepare Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe. Adjustments can be made according to personal taste preferences.
Equipment You’ll Need
Below I have listed the equipment needed to prepare Lee’s Famous Chicken:
- Cutting Board: For cutting and prepping the chicken.
- Sharp Knife: To cut the chicken into pieces.
- Mixing Bowls: For mixing the seasoning and buttermilk marinade.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure the ingredients accurately.
- Tongs: For handling the chicken pieces during the frying process.
- Deep Fryer or Large Skillet: For frying the chicken until crispy and golden brown.
- Thermometer: To make sure that the oil reaches the ideal frying temperature.
- Plate or Tray lined with Paper Towels: To drain excess oil from the fried chicken pieces.
- Baking Sheet with Wire Rack (Optional): To keep the fried chicken warm in the oven while frying additional batches.
With these essential tools, you’ll be well-equipped to recreate Lee’s Famous Chicken recipe at home.
Exact Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
The chicken pieces should first be rinsed under cold water and dried with paper towels. Arrange the chunks of chicken onto a chopping board.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix it well.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, making sure it is completely coated.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
One by one, coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the flour. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken pieces on a clean plate.
Step 5: Preheat the Oil
In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the chicken pieces are completely covered in oil.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces into the heated oil with caution, being careful not to pack the pan too full. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Drain and Rest
Once the chicken is cooked, use tongs to transfer it to a plate or tray lined with paper towels. Allow the chicken to drain and rest for a few minutes to remove excess oil.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve Lee’s Famous Chicken hot and crispy, alongside your favorite sides and sauces. Enjoy the delicious flavors and crispy texture of this iconic dish!
Serving Suggestions
Below I have given some serving suggestions to complement Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe:
Classic Side Dishes
Serve the chicken with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, macaroni, and cheese, or cornbread for a comforting meal.
Fresh Salads
Pair the crispy chicken with a refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing for a balanced meal.
Southern Favorites
Embrace Southern cuisine by serving Lee’s Famous Chicken with collard greens, black-eyed peas, cornbread, and sweet tea for an authentic dining experience.
Dipping Sauces
Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or hot sauce to add extra flavor and customization to the meal.
Biscuits or Rolls
Complete the meal with warm, fluffy biscuits or dinner rolls to soak up any leftover sauce and complement the hearty flavors of the chicken.
Pickled Vegetables
Add a tangy twist to the meal with pickled vegetables like pickles, onions, or jalapeños for a burst of acidity and crunch.
Fruit Salsa
For a refreshing twist, serve the chicken with a homemade fruit salsa made with diced mango, pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a burst of tropical flavor.
Gravy
Drizzle homemade gravy over the chicken for added richness and depth of flavor, especially when served with mashed potatoes or biscuits.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can elevate Lee’s Famous Chicken into a memorable dining experience that delights the taste buds and satisfies the soul.
Storage Techniques
To store leftover Lee’s Famous Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer-term storage, for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid refreezing previously frozen chicken for the best quality. By the way, you can also visit Lee’s Official YouTube channel.
Nutritional Information
Below I have listed the nutrients Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe found as well:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| – Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 75mg |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 10g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| – Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 20g |
These are only estimates that could change depending on the particular components and cooking techniques.
Wrapping Up
First, give the chicken pieces a quick rinse in cold water and then pat them dry. Then, set up your workstation with mixing bowls for the seasoned flour and buttermilk marinade.
Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or large skillet, and ensure you have a plate or tray lined with paper towels ready for draining the fried chicken. Once everything is set up, you’re ready to start seasoning, marinating, and frying the chicken to golden perfection. Also, Don’t forget to rate this post at the end of the Recipe Card!
Happy Cooking♥
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe suitable for air frying?
Yes, Lee’s Famous Chicken can be adapted for air frying. However, the texture may differ slightly from traditional deep frying. Adjust the cooking time and temperature according to your air fryer’s specifications for best results.
Can I make Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a gluten-free version of Lee’s Famous Chicken. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What are some creative ways to use leftover Lee’s Famous Chicken?
Leftover Lee’s Famous Chicken can be repurposed into delicious meals like chicken sandwiches, salads, wraps, or even shredded and used as a topping for pizzas or nachos. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to transform leftovers into new dishes.
Can I freeze Lee’s Famous Chicken for later use?
Yes, you can freeze-cooked Lee’s Famous Chicken for future meals. After the chicken has cooled fully, place it in a freezer bag or an airtight container for storage. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Are there any alternative cooking methods for Lee’s Famous Chicken?
Besides traditional frying, Lee’s Famous Chicken can also be baked in the oven or cooked in an air fryer for a lighter alternative. Baking requires less oil and can result in a crispy exterior with juicy meat. Experiment with different cooking methods to find your preferred version of this iconic dish.
Recipe Card
Lee’s Famous Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting board For cutting and prepping the chicken.
- Sharp knife To cut the chicken into pieces.
- Mixing Bowls For mixing the seasoning and buttermilk marinade.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons To measure the ingredients accurately.
- Tongs For handling the chicken pieces during the frying process.
- Deep Fryer or Large Skillet For frying the chicken until crispy and golden brown.
- Thermometer To make sure that the oil reaches the ideal frying temperature.
- Plate or Tray lined with Paper Towels To drain excess oil from the fried chicken pieces.
- Baking Sheet with Wire Rack (Optional) To keep the fried chicken warm in the oven while frying additional batches.
Ingredients
- 1 Chicken preferably bone-in, skin-on
- 1 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 2 cups Buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons Hot sauce
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- The chicken pieces should first be rinsed under cold water and dried with paper towels. Arrange the chunks of chicken onto a chopping board.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix it well.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, making sure it is completely coated.
Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
- One by one, coat each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the flour. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken pieces on a clean plate.
Step 5: Preheat the Oil
- In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the chicken pieces are completely covered in oil.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces into the heated oil with caution, being careful not to pack the pan too full. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Drain and Rest
- Once the chicken is cooked, use tongs to transfer it to a plate or tray lined with paper towels. Allow the chicken to drain and rest for a few minutes to remove excess oil.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve Lee’s Famous Chicken hot and crispy, alongside your favorite sides and sauces. Enjoy the delicious flavors and crispy texture of this iconic dish!
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