Calabash Chicken Recipe
Calabash Chicken is a classic Southern dish that originated in the coastal regions of North Carolina. It is named after the calabash gourd, which is traditionally used in the cooking process. This recipe combines the flavors of crispy fried chicken with a crunchy coating and a hint of spice.
To make this delicious Calabash Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Place the chicken in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over it. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Coat the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- In a large skillet, heat 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve the Calabash Chicken hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Preparation time: 1 hour
Yields: 4 servings
Calabash Chicken is a flavorful and crispy fried dish that will delight your taste buds.
Nutrition facts: Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 10g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
After you take the first bite of this Calabash Chicken, you’ll be hooked. The combination of the tender chicken with the crispy coating creates a satisfying crunch with every bite. The seasoning blend adds a subtle heat that complements the dish perfectly.
Whether you’re serving this dish for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Calabash Chicken is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or barbecue sauce, and watch everyone’s faces light up with delight.
The process of making Calabash Chicken is quite simple, but the flavors are anything but ordinary. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken, while the seasoned flour coating adds a burst of flavor. Frying the chicken to a perfect golden brown creates a satisfying texture that will keep you coming back for more.
So go ahead and give this Calabash Chicken recipe a try. It’s a classic Southern dish that will transport you to the coastal regions where it originated. Gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and prepare to enjoy a delicious meal that will make you the star chef of your kitchen.