Ingredients

  • 12 chicken thighs (skin on)
  • Peanut oil and lard, for frying
  • Brining Mix:
  • 1 qt Coca-Cola
  • 1 tsp Liquid Smoke (optional)
  • 2 1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp Tabasco
  • 3 tbsp ground black pepper
  • 3 tbsp coarse salt
  • Batter:
  • 1 egg
  • 3/4 cup peanut oil
  • Dry Mix (well combined):
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tbsp coarse salt
  • 4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 2 1/2 cups flour

Method

  • Rinse chicken, drain, and set aside. Blend together brining mix until salt dissolves. Place chicken in brine in a large covered bowl and marinate, refrigerated, for 4 hours.
  • Whisk egg well in a stainless-steel bowl and add peanut oil and 21/2 cups water. Add in dry mix, whisking slowly so batter doesn't clump.
  • To prepare chicken: Fill a large cast-iron skillet halfway with equal amounts peanut oil and lard. Slowly bring temperature to 375 degrees. (Use a candy thermometer.) While oil is heating, remove chicken from brine and place in a colander in sink. Once chicken has drained, pat dry with paper towels (a critical step) and season with salt and pepper.
  • Dip chicken in batter and place (carefully) in hot oil. Adjust heat, as the chicken will bring the oil temperature down dramatically - you want it back up to just above 350 degrees. Turn chicken regularly using tongs to prevent burning. After 8 or 9 minutes, remove a piece, prick it to the bone with a fork, and mash it. If the juices run clear, it's done. Continue cooking if necessary.
  • Serve with pickle-garlic relish. Cover any leftovers with a dish towel and leave out at room temperature. This keeps it crispy.