Golden, juicy, and full of bold island flavor—this is not your average fried chicken.
We gave this comfort food classic a Caribbean twist with our Spicy Jamaican Marinade, a bold blend of herbs, garlic, citrus, and Scotch bonnet heat. Marinated low and slow, then double-dredged and fried to crunchy perfection, this chicken delivers big on flavor and texture.
Perfect for Sunday dinner, game day, or anytime you want to bring the heat and the crunch. Let’s fry.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
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2 lbs chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or wings)
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1 cup buttermilk
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness!)
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1 tbsp smoked paprika
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1 tbsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
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2 eggs
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2 tbsp hot sauce
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together Spicy Jamaican Marinade and buttermilk. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight is best for deep flavor and extra juicy meat.
The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, while the marinade infuses it with layers of smoky heat and citrusy island flavor.
2. Make the Seasoned Coating
In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Set aside.
Cornstarch is the secret to that ultra-light, shatteringly crisp crust.
3. Whisk the Egg Wash
In another bowl, beat the eggs with hot sauce until smooth.
4. Dredge the Chicken
Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
Dredge in the flour mixture → dip into the egg wash → then back into the flour for a double-dipped coating that locks in flavor and crunch.
5. Fry Until Crispy and Golden
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F.
Fry the chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
Use a wire rack to drain and keep the coating crisp.
Serve It Up
Serve hot with your favorite island sides—think coconut rice, tangy slaw, or sweet fried plantains—and a cold tropical drink. 🍹
This is Caribbean comfort food at its finest.
Grab the Marinade That Makes It All Happen
Our Spicy Jamaican Marinade brings bold Caribbean flavor to every dish. Whether you're frying, grilling, or roasting, it’s your go-to for smoky heat and vibrant island spices.