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Copycat Clucker Chicken Recipe

Regarding comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a home-cooked chicken dish to bring people together. Today, I’m excited to share a special recipe that’s become a favorite in my kitchen: the Clucker Chicken. This dish is all about juicy, soft chicken with a savory twist that will have everyone clucking for more! Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is simple enough for a weekday supper yet impressive enough to serve at a gathering.

What Is Clucker Chicken?

Clucker Chicken is typically a restaurant or food establishment that specializes in chicken dishes. Its playful name evokes the image of happy, clucking chickens, suggesting fresh, high-quality meat.

Ingredients

For The Marinade:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For The Coating:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped.
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a big bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour, preferably overnight. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also tenderizes it.
  2. Prepare the Coating: Mix the flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, onion and garlic powders, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) in a separate large basin. The chicken gets its golden, crispy coating from this mixture.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Dip each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a uniform coating. Dip the chicken back into the marinade and again into the flour mixture for an extra crispy coating.
  4. Heat the Oil: Raise the temperature of the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan or large pot. To ensure consistent cooking, this temperature must be maintained. A thermometer can be used to monitor.
  5. Fry the Chicken: Making sure not to crowd the pan, carefully drop the floured chicken breasts into the heated oil. Fry the chicken for five to seven minutes on each side, or until it is cooked through and has a golden brown color. A temperature of 165°F (74°C) should be reached internally.
  6. Drain and Rest: After removing the chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon, allow any leftover oil to return to the pan. To drain even further, place the fried chicken on a wire rack placed over a baking pan. This keeps the crispness intact.
  7. Serve: Serve with wedges of lemon on the side and garnish with fresh parsley. The citrus provides a cool counterpoint to the chicken’s intensely flavorful and spicy sauce.

Tips For Perfect Clucker Chicken

  • Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While an hour is good, marinating overnight will give the chicken even more depth of flavor.
  • Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness: Double coat the chicken by dipping it in the marinade and flour mixture twice for a crunchier texture.
  • Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent: A thermometer ensures your oil stays around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cool, the coating may become greasy and too hot, and the coating may burn before the chicken is cooked through.
  • Rest the Chicken: Allowing the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack helps keep the coating crispy and lets any excess oil drip off.

What To Serve With

Classic Comfort Plate

  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashes potatoes perfectly complement the spicy and crunchy Clucker Chicken. Add a pat of butter and a sprinkle of fresh chives for an extra touch of flavor.
  • Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and a bit of acidity to balance the richness of the chicken. Make it with a mix of cabbage, carrots, and a light mayo-vinegar dressing.
  • Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread can be a great addition, offering a soft texture and mild sweetness to the meal.

Southern Feast

  • Mac and Cheese: Gooey, creamy mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser. Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a rich, cheesy sauce.
  • Collard Greens: Slow-cooked collard greens seasoned with smoked ham or bacon add a savory, slightly bitter element that pairs beautifully with the Clucker Chicken.
  • Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for soaking up any juices or sauces from the chicken.

Light And Fresh Plate

  • Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette keeps the meal fresh and vibrant.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring a smoky flavor that complements the chicken’s crispy coating.
  • Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with diced vegetables, herbs, and a citrusy dressing adds a nutritious and filling side option.

Family Style Sharing Platter

  • Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts brings a hearty, roasted flavor to the table.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet and salty contrast to the spicy chicken.
  • Baked Beans: Sweet and tangy baked beans are a great match, adding a hint of perfect smokiness and sweetness to the meal.

Picnic Style

  • Potato Salad: A traditional potato salad is always popular when it has crunchy celery and a creamy dressing.
  • Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of berries, melon, and citrus fruits adds a sweet and juicy element to the meal.
  • Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob, served with butter and a sprinkle of salt, is a perfect summer side.

Health Benefits

Nutritional Powerhouse

  • High-Quality Protein: Essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth and maintenance.
  • Low in Fat: It is a great weight management option, especially when the skin is removed.
  • Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Zinc, iron, and selenium are minerals found in chicken, along with vitamins B12, B6, and niacin, which are essential for many body processes.
  • Supports Heart Health: The lean protein and nutrient profile contribute to a healthy heart.
  • Aids in Weight Management: Chicken’s satiety factor can aid control appetite and support weight loss goals.
  • Boosts Immunity: The zinc content contributes to a strong immune system.
  • Improves Brain Function: Vitamins B12 and choline support brain health and cognitive function.
  • Promotes Strong Bones: Phosphorus in chicken is essential for bone health.

Final Thoughts

The goal of the Clucker Chicken dish is to create an ambiance that unites people around the dinner table, not just a delicious meal. Whether hosting a casual family dinner, preparing for a gathering of friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish promises a burst of flavor and a touch of comfort in every bite. 

More Meat Recipes:

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