Maryland Fried Chicken

Maryland Fried Chicken Recipe: A Crispy Southern Delight

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the timeless appeal of Maryland fried chicken. Known for its golden, crispy crust and tender, juicy interior, Maryland fried chicken is a staple of Southern cooking with a regional twist. Unlike other fried chicken recipes, Maryland fried chicken traditionally pairs with creamy white gravy, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. This blog will guide you through a professional recipe that guarantees crispy perfection.

What Makes Maryland Fried Chicken Unique?

The key difference between Maryland fried chicken and other styles lies in its preparation and serving. While the chicken is fried to perfection, it is typically finished with a white pan gravy made from the drippings, a technique that sets it apart from classic Crispy Southern fried chicken. This method not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creamy, indulgent element to the dish.

Ingredients for Maryland Fried Chicken

To create the perfect Maryland fried chicken, you’ll need:

For the chicken:
1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces) or 4 lbs of chicken parts (legs, thighs, or breasts)
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
Vegetable oil or lard (for frying)
For the white gravy:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
Salt and pepper to taste

How to make Maryland fried chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by soaking the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results). The buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds a tangy flavor, ensuring juicy chicken with every bite.

Step 2: Season and Coat

In a large bowl, mix the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture until fully coated. Set the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack to rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the coating to adhere better and prevents it from falling off during frying.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or cast-iron pan, heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil or lard to 350°F. Maintaining the right temperature is crucial to achieving a crispy crust without overcooking the meat.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin-side down. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. Cook each piece for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Make the White Gravy

Once all the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the frying oil in the skillet. Add the butter and flour, whisking constantly to create a roux. Gradually add the milk while whisking, and cook until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the crispy fried chicken alongside the creamy white gravy. Traditionally, Maryland fried chicken is paired with mashed potatoes, but it also works well with biscuits, coleslaw, or green beans.

Tips for Perfect Maryland Fried Chicken

Soak in Buttermilk: Don’t skip the buttermilk soak! It’s essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding flavor.
Season Generously: Proper seasoning in the flour mixture is crucial for a flavorful crust.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a steady 350°F for even frying.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil’s heat and ensure a crispy coating.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after frying to let the juices redistribute.

Why Maryland Fried Chicken is a Must-Try

Traditional Maryland chicken with gravy is not just a recipe; it’s a piece of culinary history. This dish has been enjoyed for generations, combining the comfort of home-cooked fried chicken with a unique twist of creamy white gravy. Its versatility makes it suitable for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Plus, the crispy, flavorful crust is guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

Common Questions About Maryland Fried Chicken

1. Can I Use Boneless Chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used for this recipe. However, bone-in chicken pieces retain more moisture and flavor during frying.

2. What Type of Oil is Best for Frying?

Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or lard are excellent choices for frying chicken. These oils have a high smoke point and impart great flavor to the chicken.

3. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F to restore its crispiness.

Conclusion

Best fried chicken recipe for gravy is a recipe that combines tradition with irresistible flavor. Its golden, crispy coating paired with rich white gravy makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By following this professional recipe, you’ll be able to recreate this Southern classic with ease and impress your family and friends.

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