Crispy Sage Fried Chicken

Crispy Sage Fried Chicken is a delicious twist on traditional fried chicken, incorporating the aromatic flavor of sage for a unique and savory experience. This dish features tender chicken pieces marinated in buttermilk and sage, then coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to golden perfection. Ideal for any occasion, this crispy chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 ½ cups buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried sage)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, chopped sage, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).

Step 2: Prepare for Frying

  1. In a shallow dish, place the flour and season it with salt and pepper.
  2. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Allow excess marinade to drip off before dredging each piece in the seasoned flour, ensuring an even coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

  1. In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  2. Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding.
  3. Fry for about 6–8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  4. Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your Crispy Sage Fried Chicken hot, garnished with additional fresh sage if desired. Pair it with your favorite sides like coleslaw or biscuits for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Sage Fried Chicken

  • Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
  • Temperature Control: Maintain oil temperature while frying to ensure even cooking and prevent greasy chicken.
  • Breading Technique: For extra crispiness, consider double-dipping by returning the dredged chicken back into the buttermilk before coating it again in flour.

Variations

You can customize this recipe in several ways:

  • Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy version.
  • Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs such as thyme or rosemary alongside sage for added complexity.
  • Baked Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes until cooked through and crispy.

Crispy Sage Fried Chicken is a flavorful dish that elevates traditional fried chicken with the aromatic touch of sage. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Try making this delicious fried chicken today and enjoy its irresistible crunch and savory flavor!