Houston Hot Chicken recipe

This flavorful Houston Hot Chicken recipe blends the heat of spicy fried chicken with Southern-inspired flavors, making it a perfect dish for those who love a bold and spicy meal.

Houston Hot Chicken

For the Chicken Marinade:

For the Seasoned Flour Coating:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

For the Hot Sauce:

  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce
  • 1 tsp salt

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil for frying

To Serve:

  • Pickles (optional)
  • Sandwich buns (optional)

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
    • In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt.
    • Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
    • Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, or overnight for the best flavor.
  2. Prepare the Seasoned Flour:
    • In a separate shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
    • Mix well.
  3. Fry the Chicken:
    • Heat oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
    • Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off, then coat each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to ensure an even layer.
    • Carefully fry the chicken in batches for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
    • Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to remove any excess oil.
  4. Make the Hot Sauce:
    • In a small saucepan, warm the vegetable oil over medium heat.
    • Add cayenne pepper, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, hot sauce, and salt. Stir until combined and heated through.
    • Remove from heat.
  5. Coat the Chicken:
    • While the chicken is still hot, brush it generously with the prepared hot sauce, making sure each piece is fully coated.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve the hot chicken on a sandwich bun with pickles, or enjoy it on its own with a side of your favorite dipping sauce.

  • Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to make it spicier or milder based on your preference.
  • Pair with a cold drink like sweet tea or milk to help balance the heat.
  • For extra crunch, let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes before frying.
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