Description
Crispy, flavorful Caribbean Fried Chicken marinated in island spices and fried to golden perfection. A bold and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks, bone-in, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup buttermilk (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- In a large bowl, mix lime juice, garlic, Scotch bonnet, thyme, allspice, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Line a baking sheet with a wire rack for draining. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Season lightly with salt.
- If using, dip marinated chicken in buttermilk, then dredge in seasoned flour mixture. Press to coat thoroughly.
- Fry chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown and cooked through (12–15 minutes).
- Let chicken drain on wire rack for 5 minutes to retain crispness.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Rest chicken after dredging for better crust adhesion.
- Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Caribbean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg