Discover the crispy, golden goodness of authentic Maryland fried chicken. This easy recipe brings classic Southern flavor straight to your kitchen!

Why you will love this recipe

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—Maryland fried chicken is a Southern classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a game day feast, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe delivers bold flavor and irresistible crunch. What sets Maryland fried chicken apart? It’s the delicate seasoning, tender buttermilk marinade, and that golden, crispy coating. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes. With this step-by-step recipe, you’ll master the art of making this iconic dish right at home. Get ready to bring Southern charm to your table!

There’s something truly special about Maryland fried chicken—it’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of tradition. For generations, families in Maryland and beyond have gathered around tables, sharing stories and laughter over a plate of this golden, crispy delight. The buttermilk marinade, the perfectly seasoned coating, and the comforting aroma of frying chicken bring back memories of Sunday dinners and summer picnics. It’s a recipe that connects us to our roots, reminding us of the joy of sharing simple, hearty meals with loved ones. With this recipe, you can recreate those cherished moments in your own kitchen.

Maryland Fried Chicken Recipe Card

Recipe by tmaneCourse: MainCuisine: SouthernDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

480

kcal

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
4 bone-in chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
1 ⅓ cups buttermilk
¾ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
¾ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon black pepper
For the Breading:
1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon paprika
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon onion powder
⅓ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
¾ teaspoon salt
⅓ teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
Vegetable oil or peanut oil (enough for frying, about 2 inches deep in the pan)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: Put the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper in a big bowl. Make sure the chicken pieces are completely submerged after adding them. For optimal flavor, cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Breading: Combine the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.
Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven until it's about 2 inches deep. Heat to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Coat the Chicken: Let the excess drip off the chicken pieces after removing them from the buttermilk marinade. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure even coating.
Fry the Chicken: Fry the chicken in batches, ensuring the pan isn’t overcrowded. Cook each piece for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Drain and Serve: To drain extra oil, place the fried chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Serve hot with your favorite sides like biscuits, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

Substitutions: You can use yogurt instead of buttermilk if needed.
Variations: For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and breading before frying.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat in an oven to maintain crispiness.
Pro Tip: Let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (approx. 150g)

Calories: 480

Macronutrients:

Total Fat

25g

32%

Saturated Fat

35%

Trans Fat

–

Cholesterol

85mg

28%

Sodium

900mg

39%

Total Carbohydrate

22g

Dietary Fiber

Sugars

–

Protein

30g

60%

Key Vitamins and Minerals:

Vitamin D

0mcg

Calcium

25mg

Iron

2mg

11%

Potassium

350mg

Additional Notes

This Maryland Fried Chicken recipe offers a hearty serving of protein and essential minerals like iron and potassium. The crispy breading adds texture while keeping the chicken juicy and flavorful.

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Please note: The nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

FAQ

Can I bake Maryland fried chicken instead of frying it?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the breaded chicken on a greased wire rack over a baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What makes Maryland fried chicken unique?
Maryland fried chicken is often served with a creamy white gravy, distinguishing it from other Southern fried chicken recipes. It also emphasizes marinating in buttermilk for tenderness and flavor.
What oil is best for frying chicken?
The best oils are vegetable or peanut oils because of their high smoke points. These oils ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I keep fried chicken crispy?
Place the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels to prevent it from becoming soggy. By doing this, air can flow around the chicken.
What sides pair well with Maryland fried chicken?
Traditional sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, or biscuits complement Maryland fried chicken beautifully.

Conclusion

Maryland fried chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting classic that brings people together over a plate of crispy, golden perfection. Whether you’re recreating cherished memories or trying something new, this dish is sure to impress. If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and family on social media—they’ll thank you for it! Don’t forget to follow us on our social channels for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration. Now, it’s time to grab your apron and bring a taste of Southern tradition to your table. Let’s get cooking and make every bite unforgettable!