Barbecued Fried Chicken

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating with flour (pat the chicken dry before coating with the flour).

Add your favorite spices, like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, for an additional kick in the barbecue sauce.

Make the barbecue sauce a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld.

Adjust the seasoning in the sauce according to your taste; some might prefer it sweeter or spicier.

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

You can use the whole chicken or buy parts like thighs, drumsticks, or breasts according to your preference. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of shortening for frying?

You can substitute shortening with vegetable oil or canola oil, which also work well for frying and produce a similar crispy texture.

What can I use as a substitute for ketchup in the barbecue sauce?

You can substitute ketchup with a mix of tomato paste and sugar. Or, for a less sweet sauce, just use tomato paste in place of the ketchup.

Can I make the barbecue sauce in advance?

You can prepare the barbecue sauce ahead of time. Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

What is the purpose of lemon juice in the barbecue sauce?

Lemon juice adds acidity, which helps balance the sweetness of the ketchup and boosts the overall flavor of the sauce.

How long should I fry the chicken?

Fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning frequently, until it is golden brown. It won't be fully cooked at this point but will finish cooking while simmering in the sauce.

Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead?

You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375 degrees F. Flour the chicken, then place it in a baking dish and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Add the sauce and coat the chicken well. Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes.

Is it possible to make this dish in an air fryer?

You can use an air fryer. Coat the chicken in flour and fry in the air fryer at 375 degrees F for about 25 minutes, turning halfway through, then toss with the barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

How do I store leftover chicken?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze the chicken?

You can freeze barbecued fried chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I reheat the leftovers?

Reheat leftover chicken in the oven at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes, or in a microwave. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture in the microwave.

Heavy Skillet: For frying the chicken pieces until golden brown and for simmering them in barbecue sauce. A cast-iron skillet is particularly good for this use as it provides even heat distribution.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring ingredients like the ketchup, flour, and salt.

Gallon-Size Zip-Top Plastic Bag: Used for coating the chicken in flour and salt.

Waxed Paper: For setting the coated chicken pieces aside.

Saucepan: For making the barbecue sauce.

Spoon: For stirring ingredients in the saucepan.

Tongs: For handling the chicken pieces - particularly for turning them while frying and serving.

Cooking Thermometer: Optional but helpful for checking the oil temperature to make sure it reaches and maintains 365 degrees F.

Lid: To cover the skillet while the chicken simmers in the barbecue sauce.

Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried chicken and barbecue sauce.

Cornbread: Buttery cornbread brings a subtly sweet complement to the savory flavors of the barbecued chicken. Its fluffy texture can soak up the barbecue sauce.

Pickles: Serving dill pickles on the side adds a sharp, tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.

Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned red potato wedges serve as a hearty side that complements the texture and flavor of the fried chicken. You can drizzle some of the barbecue sauce over them or even enjoy them with a side of ranch dressing.

Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy, baked macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with the spicy and tangy notes of the barbecue chicken.

Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread can be a fun addition, especially if you're looking for something to soak up extra barbecue sauce.

Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: Look for a medium to full-bodied Chardonnay with a hint of oak. The buttery texture and flavor can enhance the richness of the fried chicken, while the acidity in the wine will balance the tangy barbecue sauce.

Zinfandel: This wine struts in with juicy fruit flavors and a bit of spice. It won't shy away from the bold barbecue sauce, making it a fun match for the dish.

Malbec: Look for a ripe, fruit-forward Malbec to pair with your barbecued fried chicken. Its dark fruit flavors and soft tannins can handle the rich seasoning and the sweet notes of the barbecue sauce.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Pale Ale: A nice pale ale has the right amount of hoppy bitterness to contrast the sweetness of the barbecue sauce while not overpowering the chicken itself.

Bourbon Cocktail: Try a bourbon mixed with a splash of ginger ale or lemonade. The sweetness of the bourbon will complement the barbecue sauce nicely, while the fizz brings a refreshing vibe that just feels right with fried chicken.

Tequila Sunrise: If you're feeling a little adventurous, a tequila sunrise can work! The sweetness of the orange juice and grenadine pairs well with BBQ flavors.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Iced Tea: A sweetened iced tea brings a Southern charm that sits perfectly with fried chicken.

Ginger Beer: This spicy, fizzy drink complements the barbecue sauce's sweetness, adding a little kick.

Fruit Punch: A fruity punch can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, tangy flavors of the dish. Choose a punch with a mix of tropical flavors.