Gordon Ramsay Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe – Crispy, Juicy, and Flavorful

Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown coating and juicy, tender meat. Marinated in buttermilk to enhance flavor and tenderness, this fried chicken is coated with a well-seasoned flour mixture and fried to perfection. Whether served as a main dish, in a sandwich, or with classic sides, this fried chicken delivers a restaurant-quality experience at home.

What is Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a crispy, flavorful dish where chicken pieces are marinated in buttermilk for tenderness, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, and deep-fried until golden and crunchy. The buttermilk helps break down the meat’s fibers, ensuring a juicy bite, while the crispy coating delivers bold, savory flavors with a touch of spice.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes

• Gordon Ramsay Spinach Artichoke Dip
• Gordon Ramsay Anchovy Dip
• Gordon Ramsay Grilled Chicken
• Gordon Ramsay Street Corn Dip

Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Crispy, golden coating – Perfectly seasoned and crunchy on the outside.
• Tender and juicy meat – Buttermilk marinade locks in moisture.
• Rich, bold flavors – A blend of spices adds depth and heat.
• Perfect for any occasion – Great for dinner, sandwiches, or picnics.
• Better than takeout – Enjoy restaurant-quality fried chicken at home.

Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken

For the Buttermilk Marinade:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Crispy Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon baking powder (for light, crispy texture)

For Frying:

• 3 cups vegetable oil (or enough for deep frying)

Instructions to Prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Prepare the marinade – In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, and hot sauce (if using).
2. Coat the chicken – Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully covered.
3. Marinate for at least 4 hours – For best results, refrigerate overnight to maximize tenderness and flavor.

Prepare the Coating:

4. Mix dry ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and baking powder.

Coat the Chicken:

5. Dredge the chicken – Remove each piece from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off. Coat evenly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick, crispy crust.
6. Let it rest – Place coated chicken on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes to allow the coating to set for better frying.

Fry the Chicken:

7. Heat the oil – In a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry in batches – Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, cooking for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
9. Drain excess oil – Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack over a baking sheet to keep it crispy.

Serve:

10. Enjoy hot and crispy – Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces or classic sides.

What Goes Well With Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

Buttermilk biscuits or cornbread

Adds a classic Southern touch.

Coleslaw or potato salad

Provides a cool, refreshing contrast.

Mac and cheese

Creamy, cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.

Mashed potatoes with gravy

A comforting, hearty side dish.

Honey or hot sauce drizzle

Enhances the flavor with a sweet or spicy kick.

Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Marinate overnight for maximum flavor

Longer marination ensures a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Use cornstarch for extra crunch

Mixing cornstarch with flour creates an ultra-crispy crust.

Let the coated chicken rest before frying

This helps the breading stick better for an even fry.

Maintain the right oil temperature

Keeping the oil at 350°F (175°C) prevents greasy or undercooked chicken.

Drain fried chicken on a wire rack

Avoid paper towels, which can make the crust soggy.

Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken

Toss fried chicken in a spicy butter sauce made with cayenne and honey.

Honey Butter Fried Chicken

Drizzle with honey butter for a sweet and savory contrast.

Korean-Style Fried Chicken

Toss in a gochujang-based sauce for an umami-packed version.

Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for a crispy, gluten-free option.

Oven-Baked Buttermilk Chicken

For a healthier alternative, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage Guidelines for Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Refrigerate properly

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze for longer storage

Freeze fried chicken for up to 2 months, then reheat in the oven for best results.

Best way to store for meal prep

Keep cooked chicken separate from the sides and sauces for easy reheating.

Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Oven method for best crispiness

Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until hot and crispy.

Air fryer for a quick crisp

Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Avoid microwaving

This makes the coating soggy instead of crispy.

FAQs

Why do you soak chicken in buttermilk before frying?

Soaking chicken in buttermilk before frying helps tenderize the meat while adding flavor. The acidity in buttermilk breaks down proteins, resulting in juicier and more tender chicken. It also helps the breading stick better for a crispier coating.

What is the secret to crispy fried chicken?

For extra crispy Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken, use a combination of flour and cornstarch in the coating, let the breaded chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before frying, and ensure the oil temperature stays at 350°F (175°C) to prevent greasiness.

Can you bake buttermilk fried chicken instead of frying?

Yes, buttermilk fried chicken can be baked for a healthier option. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. For extra crunch, lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking oil before baking.

How do you keep fried chicken crispy for a long time?

To keep fried chicken crispy, place it on a wire rack instead of paper towels after frying to allow air circulation. If storing for later, keep it warm in the oven at 200°F (95°C) until ready to serve.

Final Words

Gordon Ramsay’s Buttermilk Fried Chicken is the ultimate crispy, juicy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served with classic Southern sides, in a sandwich or as a standalone dish, this fried chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavor with every bite. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy the perfect homemade fried chicken!

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