Crispy Gluten-Free Fried Chicken Recipe

Are you craving fried chicken but need to keep it gluten-free? You’re in for a treat! This recipe delivers golden, crispy fried chicken with all the flavor and crunch you love—without a hint of gluten. Perfect for family dinners, weekend indulgences, or any time you’re in the mood for comfort food done right. Let’s dive in!

Gluten free fried chicken

Gluten Free Fried Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
  • 2 cups buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative with 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

For the Coating:

  • 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil (enough to fill a pan about 2 inches deep)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they’re fully submerged in the marinade.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best for maximum tenderness and flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

  1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
  2. Set up your coating station with the marinated chicken and seasoned flour mixture.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  1. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
  2. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat thoroughly.
  3. Place coated chicken on a wire rack to rest for 10-15 minutes—this helps the coating stick.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Use a thermometer to maintain a steady temperature of 350°F (175°C).

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

  1. Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  2. Fry for 8-12 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
  3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

  • Double Coat for Extra Crunch: Dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and flour mixture for a thicker, crunchier crust.
  • Season as You Go: Sprinkle a little extra salt on the chicken right after frying for enhanced flavor.
  • Frying Temperature Matters: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a consistent temperature to avoid soggy or burnt chicken.

Serve and Enjoy!

Pair your gluten-free fried chicken with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. Don’t forget a dipping sauce like honey mustard or spicy mayo for an extra burst of flavor!

With this recipe, you can enjoy all the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken without worrying about gluten. Try it out and let us know in the comments how yours turned out.

Happy cooking!