Lyndon Johnson’s Favorite Recipe
Former President Lyndon B. Johnson was known for many things – his civil rights policies, his Texas ranch, and his love for Southern cooking. But among his favorite dishes, one stood out as his go-to comfort food: Fried Chicken.
Overview
Lyndon Johnson’s fried chicken recipe was a staple at the White House during his presidency and remained a family favorite for years to come. It was a simple yet delicious dish that combined crispy, golden-brown chicken with a flavorful marinade and the perfect blend of spices.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces and make sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour or up to 24 hours.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Step 4: In a large, deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 5: Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain off any excess oil. Serve the fried chicken hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For extra crispy chicken, add a pinch of cornstarch to the flour mixture.
- Let the chicken marinate in the buttermilk mixture for at least an hour to allow the flavors to develop.
- To test if the oil is hot enough for frying, drop a small piece of breaded chicken in the oil. If it sizzles and starts to turn golden brown, the oil is ready.
- For evenly cooked chicken, make sure the oil is at a consistent temperature throughout the frying process.
Safety Precautions
- Always use caution when working with hot oil.
- Make sure to fully cook the chicken to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
- Do not leave the stove unattended while frying the chicken.
- Use long tongs or a fork to flip the chicken pieces, not your hands.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Here’s a quick visual guide to help you make Lyndon Johnson’s favorite fried chicken:
- Cut the whole chicken into pieces.
- Marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk and hot sauce for at least an hour.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour and spices.
- Coat the chicken in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a skillet and fry the chicken pieces for 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the fried chicken on a wire rack.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Premium Results
- Use a cast-iron skillet for the best results.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes on the wire rack before serving to keep the breading crispy.
- Add your choice of herbs and spices to the seasoning mix for added flavor.
- You can also use an air fryer for a healthier alternative to frying.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Therefore, it is recommended to let the chicken marinate for at least an hour.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use any part of the chicken for this recipe. However, using a whole chicken with skin on will yield the most flavorful and crispy results.
3. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
You can use any high-heat oil for frying, such as vegetable, peanut, or canola oil. Lard or butter can also be used for added flavor.
4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add a pinch of xanthan gum to help the breading stick to the chicken.
5. How can I reheat leftover fried chicken?
To reheat leftover fried chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and crispy.
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