Michigan style fried chicken takes simple local ingredients to revolutionize your dinner table with regional flair and bold flavors!
Bringing Pure Michigan to Your Plate
Fried chicken may be a Southern staple, but the heart of the Midwest is giving it a run for its money. Michigan, known for its scenic Great Lakes and rich agricultural bounty, brings a fresh twist to this classic dish. Infused with locally sourced ingredients like Michigan cherry juice, buttermilk, and sunflower oil, this recipe doesn’t just fry chicken—it tells a story. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a unique dish to impress guests, this Michigan-style fried chicken will have you savoring every bite.
Discovering the Ingredients That Make This Recipe Unforgettable
One of the standout features of this dish is its emphasis on local Michigan ingredients. Each component pays homage to the region’s farming traditions and culinary heritage.
- Michigan Cherry Juice: Adds a hint of natural sweetness that complements the smoky spices.
- Locally Sourced Buttermilk: From dairies like Calder Dairy, this rich ingredient ensures a tender and juicy chicken.
- Soft Red Wheat Flour: Sourced from Michigan farms, this flour creates the perfect crispy crust.
- Sunflower Oil: Locally grown and pressed, sunflower oil ensures a golden fry and imparts a mild, nutty flavor.
Every ingredient brings Michigan to your plate, elevating this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (local free-range chicken if possible)
- 1 cup buttermilk (Michigan-made, like Calder Dairy or Country Dairy)
- 1/2 cup Michigan cherry juice (for a subtle sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons Michigan-made mustard (like Zingerman’s Deli mustard)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coating:
- 2 cups Michigan-grown soft red wheat flour (or any locally milled flour)
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal (like from Jiffy Mix sourced locally if available)
- 1 tablespoon dried Michigan cherry powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying:
- 2 cups Michigan sunflower oil or lard (locally sourced if possible)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (Michigan-made, like Guernsey Farms Dairy)
For the Michigan Maple Drizzle (Optional):
- 1/4 cup Michigan maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Method:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, cherry juice, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
2. Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, cornmeal, cherry powder (if using), cayenne pepper, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Set aside on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes to allow the coating to stick.
3. Fry the Chicken:
- Heat sunflower oil and butter in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until the oil reaches 350°F. Use a thermometer to ensure consistent temperature.
- Fry chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each piece for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove the chicken and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Maple Drizzle (Optional):
- In a small saucepan, heat maple syrup, butter, and red pepper flakes over low heat until smooth. Drizzle over the chicken for a sweet-and-spicy Michigan twist.
5. Serve:
Pair with Michigan-made sides like cherry coleslaw, buttered sweet corn, or a slice of Detroit-style cornbread. Don’t forget a glass of Vernors or a Michigan craft beer for the ultimate experience.
Michigan Maple Drizzle: The Finishing Touch
For those who love a sweet-spicy kick, the optional Michigan maple drizzle is a game-changer. With just three ingredients—pure Michigan maple syrup, butter, and red pepper flakes—it strikes a harmonious balance that takes this fried chicken to gourmet heights. A light drizzle before serving transforms each bite into a symphony of flavors.
Why This Michigan Recipe Stands Out Among Fried Chicken Contenders
Fried chicken recipes abound, but this one is truly special. By incorporating Michigan’s signature ingredients, it offers a regional twist on a beloved classic. The cherry juice adds subtle complexity, the sunflower oil provides a clean fry, and the Michigan maple drizzle gives it a finishing flourish.
This recipe doesn’t just taste good—it connects you to the agricultural heartbeat of Michigan. It’s fried chicken with a sense of place and purpose.
Pairings That Complete the Experience
Every great main dish deserves stellar sides. Consider pairing this Michigan-style fried chicken with:
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: Enhanced with a splash of cherry juice for a surprising twist.
- Sweet Cornbread: Featuring a hint of Michigan honey.
- Homemade Pickles: For a tangy crunch that complements the richness of the chicken.
A Recipe That Celebrates Michigan’s Sweet and Tart Cherry Legacy
Whether you’re a fried chicken connoisseur or a curious cook, this Michigan-style fried chicken promises to delight. It’s more than a meal—it’s a celebration of local flavors, traditions, and ingenuity. With every crispy, juicy bite, you’ll discover why this recipe stands out in the crowded world of fried chicken.
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