Pairing: Fried Chicken

Fried chicken, with its crispy, golden crust and juicy interior, is a comfort food favorite that pairs surprisingly well with wine. The best wine to pair with fried chicken is typically a sparkling wine like Champagne or Prosecco. The high acidity and effervescence of these wines cut through the richness and greasiness of the fried chicken, refreshing the palate with every bite. For those who prefer still wines, a Riesling or a Lambrusco can also complement the dish with their acidity and slight sweetness, balancing the savory and salty flavors of the chicken.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • Chicken: 4 pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
  • Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, optional herbs (rosemary, thyme) 
  • Buttermilk: 2 cups, for marinating
  • Seasoning: Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper
  • Flour Coating: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, seasoned with salt and pepper
  • Oil: Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
  2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the flour with additional salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, coating it thoroughly.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each piece for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. Serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on paper towels. Serve hot, paired with your chosen wine—Champagne, Prosecco, Riesling, or Lambrusco—to enjoy a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Serve With

Champagne, Prosecco

Learn More About the Best Pairings

Champagne

Champagne is a sparkling wine produced exclusively in the Champagne region of France

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Prosecco

Prosecco is a sparkling white wine primarily made from Glera grapes in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of Italy.

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Samplers

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