By Wendy Stoltz, Gusti Ayu Wahyuni Mertawati / Last Modified On November 14, 2023

This gluten-free fried chicken recipe isn't just good; it's the absolute best. One crispy, juicy bite, and you'll be utterly captivated by the sensational flavors. Follow our expert tips and tricks to create the finest gluten-free fried chicken; you'll be hooked from the first taste.

Explore an array of mouthwatering gluten-free chicken recipes that will leave a lasting impression. From the satisfying crunch of gluten-free chicken nuggets and the succulent tenderness of gluten-free chicken tenders to the aromatic charm of gluten-free oregano-infused baked chicken. We have all the gluten-free recipes you need!

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Table of Contents

Gluten-Free Fried Chicken Recipe

Are you craving fried chicken? This dish embodies a classic comfort food reimagined to suit dietary preferences without compromising on taste. I was not prepared to forfeit crispy fried chicken due to celiac, and this is a great gluten-free KFC fried chicken copycat recipe, but better!

With its lightly spiced, tender chicken generously coated in a flavorful breading, this gluten-free fried chicken is as delicious and satisfying as its traditional counterpart. The magic happens in the marinade, where the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika powder, and ginger powder combine to create an irresistible flavor profile.

What sets this gluten-free dinner recipe apart is its simplicity. As you'll soon discover, creating the finest gluten-free fried chicken is achievable—the secret lies in a careful balance of ingredients and techniques.

Why You’re Going to Love This Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

Exceptional Flavor - Our gluten-free fried chicken is an exceptional dish, offering a remarkable flavor profile that rivals traditional fried chicken.

Crispy Perfection - With a crispy, golden-brown exterior, this gluten-free chicken retains its irresistible crunch, making every bite a delight.

Accessible Preparation - You don't need to be a professional chef to create this dish. Its simplicity means anyone can enjoy the deliciousness of homemade gluten-free fried chicken.

Ingredients in Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

Marinade

Chicken Drumsticks and Thighs - These are the primary protein sources for our gluten-free fried chicken. The meat will absorb the flavors from the marinade and stay tender during frying.

Buttermilk - Buttermilk is used in the marinade to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with a rich, tangy flavor. It also helps create a moist interior and a crispy exterior when fried. TIP: You can make your own buttermilk substitute by mixing milk with vinegar or lemon juice.

Seasonings - Salt, black pepper, paprika powder, and ginger powder for flavor enhancement.

Dredging Mixture

All-Purpose Gluten-Free Flour - The gluten-free flour blend serves as the primary coating for the chicken, giving it a crispy, golden-brown exterior while ensuring the dish is gluten-free.

Cornstarch - Cornstarch is mixed with the gluten-free flour mixture to enhance the crunchiness and lightness of the breading.

Seasonings - Cayenne pepper, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, and dried basil for a flavorful, aromatic breading.

Other

Cold Water - Used for a unique dipping process to achieve a multi-layered crispy coating.

Hot Oil - Essential for a crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy interior is hot oil.

Equipment Needed for This Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

Large Mixing Bowl - You will need a few large bowls for preparing the buttermilk mixture, mixing the dredging ingredients, and coating the chicken.

Whisk - Essential for thoroughly mixing the marinade ingredients.

Strainer - Used in the dipping process to ensure a crispy coating.

Tongs - Helpful for removing the fried chicken from the hot oil.

Cooling Rack or Paper Towel-Lined Baking Sheet - To drain and cool the fried chicken.

Deep Fryer or Heavy-Duty Pot - To fry the chicken over medium to low heat.

If you have any questions about making Gluten-Free Fried Chicken, please leave a comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How to Make Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

Begin by preparing the chicken, making three slits in each piece to enhance marinade absorption and frying efficiency.
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika powder, and ginger powder, ensuring a well-mixed buttermilk mixture.
Add the chicken to the buttermilk mixture, then cover with plastic wrap for marination. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to a maximum of 12 hours, even overnight.
Set up a large bowl and blend all the dredging ingredients.
Organize your workspace, placing the dredging mixture and a bowl of cold water side by side.
Position a strainer over the bowl of water.
Take four chicken pieces and gently toss them in the dredging mixture without excessive pressing.
Pat each set of two chickens gently, then place them in the strainer over the cold water. Repeat this process with the remaining two chicken pieces.
Once the chicken pieces have been dipped in the water, promptly transfer them back to the dredging mixture for repeated flour tossing. Place them back in cold water, and finally, return the chicken to the dredging mixture before patting them together.
Deep fry chicken over medium to low heat, ensuring the canola oil is sufficiently hot when adding the chicken. Fry until they achieve a golden brown color, remembering to flip them in the middle of the frying process.
While frying the first batch, coat the remaining chicken pieces with the dredging mixture and dip them in water, ensuring they are ready to fry immediately after coating to maintain a crisp texture.
Using tongs, remove the chicken pieces from the oil and place them on a cooling rack or a baking sheet lined with paper towels to remove excess oil. Allow the fried chicken to rest for a minimum of 10 minutes before serving. Now, your gluten-free fried chicken is ready to be enjoyed, and it pairs wonderfully with a side of chili sauce.

Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

Buttermilk Marinade Matters - Ensure the chicken is well-marinated for at least 2 hours, allowing it to absorb the flavors and stay tender throughout the frying process.

Proper Dredging Technique - Gently toss the chicken in the dredging mixture without pressing or squeezing to create a crispy and even coating.

Maintain Consistent Oil Temperature - Fry the chicken over medium to low heat, and ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken to achieve a golden-brown exterior without overcooking the interior.

Dip Wisely - When dipping the chicken in cold water, do so quickly and immediately return it to the dredging mixture. This multi-layer coating ensures ultimate crispiness.

Don't Crowd the Pan - Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy crust.

Use a Thermometer - Consider using a kitchen thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and achieve the perfect frying conditions.

Rest Before Serving - Let the fried chicken pieces rest on a cooling rack or paper towels for at least 10 minutes before serving to preserve their crispy texture.

How To Avoid The Breading Falling Off The Chicken

By following these tips, you can savor gluten-free fried chicken with breading that stays perfectly intact.

Thoroughly Dry the Chicken -Before coating the chicken in the dredging mixture, pat it dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the breading from sticking.
Chill After Dredging - After coating the chicken with the dredging mixture, allow it to rest in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This helps the breading adhere better.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan - When frying, avoid crowding the pan. Frying too many pieces at once can cause them to stick together and the breading to dislodge.
Use the Right Oil Temperature - Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (around 350-375°F or 175-190°C). Too hot, and the breading can brown too quickly and fall off. It is too cool, and it may not adhere properly.
Handle Gently - Be careful when turning or flipping the chicken during frying to avoid scraping off the breading.

Sauces for Dipping

Take your gluten-free fried chicken to the next level with an array of dipping sauces:

Honey Mustard Sauce - The sweet and tangy notes of honey mustard complement the savory crunch of fried chicken.
Barbecue Sauce - A classic choice, barbecue sauce adds smoky, tangy flavors to your meal.
Ranch Dressing - Creamy ranch pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, offering a cool contrast to the heat.
Hot Sauce - For those who love a spicy kick, hot sauce is an excellent choice to drizzle over or use as a dipping sauce.

What to Serve With Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

Serve this gluten-free crispy chicken with:

Coleslaw - The refreshing and slightly tangy nature of coleslaw makes it a great side dish to balance the richness of the fried chicken.
Gluten-Free Mashed Potatoes - Creamy mashed potatoes complement the chicken's crispy texture and provide a comforting side.
Gluten-Free Cornbread - The sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread is a great side.
Mixed Greens Salad - A light, fresh salad with vinaigrette can balance the meal with some greens.
Corn on the Cob - Enjoy the flavors of summer with some delicious corn on the cob, either grilled or boiled.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Store Gluten-Free Fried Chicken?

Store leftover gluten-free fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain its freshness and flavor. It is however better to eat it when it's just been cooked as it is super crispy.

Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Fried Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze gluten-free fried chicken. Place the cooled chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Can You Make This Gluten-Free Fried Chicken Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the dredged chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours, but it's best to fry it just before serving to maintain its crispy texture.

What Substitutions / Replacements Can I Make in This Gluten-Free Fried Chicken?

Spices - Customize the spice blend to your preference, adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique flavor.

Dairy-Free - If you want dairy-free fried chicken, you can replace buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative, like almond milk, with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity.

Oil - Feel free to use different high-heat oils for frying, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

What Types Of Gluten-Free Flours Can You Use To Make This Recipe?

You can use your choice of gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe, depending on your taste and dietary preferences. Options like rice flour provide a neutral flavor and a crispy texture, while chickpea flour adds a nutty, earthy taste. Almond flour offers a sweet and nutty profile. You can also opt for pre-made gluten-free flour blends. I have not tried all the gluten-free flour options listed, so let us know your favorite.

What's The Best Chicken For Making Gluten-Free Fried Chicken?

The best chicken for making gluten-free fried chicken is bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, such as chicken drumsticks and chicken thighs. These cuts of chicken offer a good balance of flavor and tenderness, and the skin adds an extra layer of texture and flavor when fried. The bone-in cuts also help the chicken stay moist during the frying process.

However, you can choose the cuts you prefer, depending on your personal taste and dietary preferences.

Just ensure that the chicken pieces you use are gluten-free and haven't been processed with any gluten-containing additives.

What Is The Best Way To Reheat Fried Chicken?

The best way to reheat leftover fried chicken while maintaining its crispy texture and the juicy interior is to use an oven. This method helps the leftover chicken retain its crispy exterior while heating it evenly. Avoid using a microwave, as it tends to make the chicken soggy, and stovetop reheating can risk overcooking the chicken.

What Kind Of Oil Is Best For Frying?

The best type of oil for frying, including making gluten-free fried chicken, is an oil with a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. Some suitable options include:

Canola Oil - It is a popular choice due to its high smoke point, making it great for deep frying. It has a mild, neutral flavor that won't overpower the taste of the chicken.
Vegetable Oil - Vegetable oil is another excellent option for frying. It has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it versatile for various fried dishes.
Peanut Oil - Peanut oil is known for its high smoke point and subtle nutty flavor, which can add a pleasant depth to the fried chicken.
Sunflower Oil - Sunflower oil is suitable for frying with its high smoke point and mild taste.

When frying gluten-free chicken or any other foods, choose an oil with a smoke point of at least 350°F (175°C) to 400°F (205°C) to ensure it can handle the high frying temperatures. Always maintain the oil at the appropriate temperature to achieve crispy and perfectly cooked results.

Can I Prepare This Recipe For Kentucky Fried Chicken In An Air Fryer?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe for Kentucky fried chicken in the air fryer. After marinating and dredging the chicken, preheat your air fryer to around 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the chicken pieces with cooking oil, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Ensure a golden-brown, crispy exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken. Allow the cooked chicken to rest briefly before serving to maintain its crispy texture. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and chicken piece size, so monitor the progress to avoid overcooking.

Yield: 4 servings

Gluten-Free Fried Chicken

Discover the finest gluten-free fried chicken with sensational flavors – you'll be hooked from the first bite.

Prep Time 2 hours

Cook Time 1 hour

Total Time 1 hour