Bon Ton-Style Fried Chicken

Classic Southern-style fried chicken marinated in a spicy seasoned brine and dredged in seasoned flour for a perfectly crispy crust. This recipe recreates the famous Bon Ton chicken with a 24-hour marinade that ensures juicy, flavorful results.

6 servings
25 hr

Ingredients

  • 1 quart water
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons cayenne
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • teaspoons white pepper
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • pounds chicken pieces
  • 12 cups vegetable oil
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Whisk together all marinade ingredients in a large bowl.

    5 min

  2. 2.

    Add chicken, making sure it is covered with marinade. Chill, covered, stirring twice, about 24 hours.

    1440 min

  3. 3.

    Heat 2 inches oil in a wide 8- to 9 1/2-quart pot over moderately high heat until a deep-fat thermometer registers 365 to 375°F. (Our pot was 12 inches wide and 5 inches deep; if you don't have that wide a pot, you can fry the chicken in two batches.)

    15 min

  4. 4.

    Meanwhile, whisk together all dredging ingredients in a large bowl. Drain chicken, discarding marinade. Dredge each piece of chicken in seasoned flour and put on a large baking sheet. Let stand about 10 minutes.

    15 min

  5. 5.

    Fry chicken, turning a few times, 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown, then drain on a rack.

    25 min