The Salty Neighbor Bar & Grill is famous for its perfectly seasoned, crispy, and satisfying bar snacks and dishes that keep patrons coming back for more. This copycat recipe captures the essence of their signature flavors with a balance of savory, salty, and smoky notes, making it ideal for a game day or casual get-together at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 4 cups)
- 2 tablespoons sea salt flakes, for finishing
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the dredge: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Make the wet mix: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then whisk in the buttermilk until combined.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each piece of chicken thigh first into the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then into the egg and buttermilk mixture, and back into the flour mixture. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating. Place the coated pieces on a wire rack or plate.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on a deep-fry thermometer.
- Fry the chicken: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Drain and season: Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with sea salt flakes while still hot for that signature Salty Neighbor crunch and seasoning punch.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, spicy mayo, or honey mustard.
Tips
- Substitution for buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Oil temperature control: Use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain 350°F. Too low and the coating absorbs oil; too high and it burns before cooking through.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for frying.
- Common mistake: Don’t skip the double dredge (flour-egg-flour) step; it ensures an extra crispy crust that holds the seasoning well.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy, salty chicken pairs wonderfully with classic bar sides such as French fries, coleslaw, or onion rings. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. To replicate the full Salty Neighbor Bar & Grill experience, offer an array of dipping sauces like chipotle ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. A cold beer or a citrusy cocktail complements the saltiness and richness of the fried chicken beautifully.
Variations
To customize this recipe, try swapping chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts or even fried cauliflower florets as a vegetarian alternative. For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce into the buttermilk mixture. You can also experiment with different spices—try adding cumin or chili powder for a Southwestern twist. For a more robust smoky flavor, use smoked sea salt instead of regular sea salt flakes at the end.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crispy, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to be leaner and can dry out more quickly. To keep them juicy, cut into similar-sized pieces and avoid overcooking. You may also want to marinate them briefly in buttermilk for extra tenderness.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika can be used, but the smoky flavor will be less pronounced. To compensate, you can add a small amount (1/2 teaspoon) of liquid smoke or smoked salt to the flour mix.
Is it necessary to deep fry, or can I bake this?
Deep frying yields the crispiest, most authentic texture, but you can bake the chicken for a healthier version. Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The crust won’t be as crunchy but will still be flavorful.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
The best way is to use a deep-fry thermometer to reach and maintain 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have one, drop a small pinch of flour into the oil—if it sizzles immediately and floats to the surface, the oil is ready.
Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?
You can coat the chicken and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 hours before frying. Place the coated pieces on a wire rack covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent sogginess. Avoid longer storage as the coating may become soggy and fall off.
What dipping sauces go best with this dish?
Classic options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, spicy mayo, or barbecue sauce. For a tangy kick, try a homemade blue cheese dip or a citrusy aioli. Offering a variety allows guests to customize their flavor experience.
This recipe captures the essence of Salty Neighbor Bar & Grill’s beloved fried chicken with an easy-to-follow method and accessible ingredients. Whether for a party, game day, or a comforting meal at home, these crispy, salty bites deliver on flavor and texture every time.
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