Introduction
St. Louis is known for its delicious and finger-licking good fried chicken, and Sweetie Pie’s is one of the most popular spots to get your fix. Recently, the fried chicken at Sweetie Pie’s was named one of the 75 best in America, putting the restaurant in the same league as renowned chefs and their creations. But what makes Sweetie Pie’s fried chicken so special? Let’s find out.
The origins of Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe
Sweetie Pie’s is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving the St. Louis community since 1997. The restaurant’s founder, Robbie Montgomery, is a former backup singer for Ike and Tina Turner. Robbie is also a self-taught cook who learned how to cook from her mother and grandmother. The fried chicken recipe that is served at Sweetie Pie’s is a family recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is a combination of Robbie’s grandmother’s recipe and her own twist on it.
Why Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe is a must-try dish
The fried chicken at Sweetie Pie’s is made fresh to order and is cooked to a perfect golden brown. The batter is crispy and has a lightness to it that makes it different from other fried chicken recipes. The secret to the batter is the onion-y garlicky seasoning that charms everyone who tries it. It’s this unique flavor that has made Sweetie Pie’s fried chicken a fan favorite.
But it’s not just the chicken that is delicious, the sides are just as noteworthy. The sweet potatoes and greens are perfectly cooked, and when paired with the chicken, it becomes a match made in heaven. And we cannot forget about the cobbler. The cobbler is a must-try and is made with real fruit and a homemade crust. It’s the perfect ending to a delicious meal.
In conclusion, if you are in the St. Louis area and looking for some finger-licking good fried chicken, Sweetie Pie’s is the place to go. Not only is their fried chicken one of the best in America, but their sides and desserts are just as remarkable. It’s evident that Robbie and her family put their heart and soul into every dish, and that’s what makes Sweetie Pie’s a must-try restaurant.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients needed for Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe
The ingredients you will need for Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken recipe include:
– 2-1/2 to 3 pounds fryer chicken cut into 8-10 pieces
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 6 egg yolks
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons garlic powder
– 2 tablespoons onion powder
– 2 tablespoons dried thyme
– 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– Cooking oil
Where to get the ingredients
Most of the ingredients needed for this recipe can be found at your local grocery store. However, if you have trouble finding any of the spices, try visiting a specialty spice shop or ordering online. Buttermilk can be found in the dairy section of most grocery stores. If you can’t find it, you can also make your own by combining regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
To make Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken recipe, you’ll need to start by mixing together buttermilk and egg yolks in a bowl. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to make sure they are coated in the buttermilk mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.
In another bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Remove chicken from the buttermilk mixture and coat each piece in the flour mixture.
Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven until it reaches 350°F. Add the chicken to the oil and fry for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Serve your delicious Southern Deep Fried Chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Preparation
Step by Step process on how to prepare Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe
Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken recipe is a delicious, crispy and juicy dish that can be enjoyed for any occasion or just to satisfy your craving for fried chicken. Here are the step by step process to prepare this recipe:
1. Cut the fryer chicken into 8-10 pieces. Make sure you remove any excess fat or skin.
2. Mix together buttermilk and egg yolks in a large bowl. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to make sure they are coated in the buttermilk mixture.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to overnight for best results. This will allow the chicken to marinate and absorb all the flavors of the buttermilk mixture.
4. In another bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
5. Remove chicken from the buttermilk mixture and coat each piece in the flour mixture, pressing it in with your fingers to make sure it sticks.
6. Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven until it reaches 350°F.
7. Add the chicken to the oil and fry for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
9. Serve and enjoy!
Marinating tips for extra flavor
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some herbs and spices to the buttermilk mixture. Some good options include rosemary, thyme, garlic, and cayenne pepper. You can also marinate the chicken for longer than an hour to overnight, which will allow more time for the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Remember to use quality ingredients for the best results, and always take care when deep-frying. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
Deep Frying
Deep frying is a common cooking method for Southern fried chicken. The key is to get the right temperature, so the chicken is cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Here are some tips on how to deep fry the chicken perfectly.
Tips on how to deep fry the chicken perfectly
1. Use a deep pot: Use a pot that is at least 5 inches high to ensure that the chicken can be fully submerged in the oil. This helps to cook the chicken evenly.
2. Fry in batches: Fry only 3 pieces at a time to avoid overcrowding the pot. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t become soggy.
3. Allow the chicken to cool: After frying, place the chicken on a cooling rack over a baking sheet covered in parchment paper or foil. This allows the excess oil to drain, preventing the chicken from becoming greasy.
4. Check the temperature: Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil before frying the chicken. The ideal temperature is 350°F.
5. Let the chicken rest: Once you coat the chicken with the flour batter, allow the pieces to rest for at least 10 minutes. This gives the coating time to set before frying which results in a crispier texture.
What type of oil is best for deep frying
The type of oil you use for deep frying impacts the flavor and texture of the chicken. Vegetable oil or canola oil is ideal for deep frying as it has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor. Peanut oil is also a popular choice in the Southern United States and creates a crisp and nutty flavor in the chicken. Avoid using olive oil or butter as they have a low smoke point and can become rancid when heated at high temperatures.
In conclusion, deep frying is an important step in making the perfect Southern fried chicken. By following these tips and using the right type of oil, you can achieve crispy, golden brown chicken that will surely impress your family and friends.
Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe Variations
Sweetie Pies is a famous soul food restaurant known for its delicious food, including their crispy and flavorful fried chicken. This classic Southern dish has been a favorite for generations, and Sweetie Pies has perfected the art of making it. Here are some variations of Sweetie Pies fried chicken recipe that you can try at home.
Alternative Recipes that you can try
1. Spicy Fried Chicken: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture before coating the chicken. This will add some kick to the classic fried chicken recipe.
2. Buttermilk Fried Chicken: This is a classic Southern recipe which uses buttermilk instead of regular milk to marinate the chicken. The result is a tender and juicy chicken with a crispy crust.
3. Gluten-Free Fried Chicken: For those who are gluten intolerant, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You could also try using a mixture of cornmeal and gluten-free breadcrumbs for added texture.
Vegetarian options for Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe
If you’re a vegetarian, you can still enjoy the flavors of Sweetie Pies fried chicken by trying these vegetarian options.
1. Tofu Fried “Chicken”: Replace the chicken with firm tofu slices marinated in buttermilk and coated in seasoned flour mixture. Fry until golden brown for a crispy and flavorful vegetarian “chicken”.
2. Breaded and Fried Vegetables: You can use the same flour mixture used for the fried chicken to coat different vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushroom. Fry until golden brown for a delicious and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, Sweetie Pies fried chicken recipe is the epitome of Southern comfort food, and these variations can help you put your own spin on the classic dish. Whether you’re looking to add some heat, make the dish gluten-free, or vegetarian, there are options for everyone to enjoy this mouth-watering dish.
Tips for Serving
After frying up a batch of delicious Southern fried chicken, it’s time to enjoy it with some tasty sides and drinks. Here are some tips on how to serve Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe and a list of suggested side dishes and drinks.
How to serve Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe
Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe is a classic Southern fried chicken dish that is sure to satisfy. Here are some tips on how to serve it:
1. Serve hot: Fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight out of the fryer. Serve immediately after cooking to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
2. Garnish: Add a little extra flair to the dish by garnishing it with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. This not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look more visually appealing.
3. Dip: Fried chicken goes well with a variety of dips such as barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and honey mustard. Set out a few different options so guests can choose their favorite.
Suggested side dishes and drinks
Pairing Southern fried chicken with the right sides and drinks can take the meal to the next level. Here are some classic Southern side dishes and drinks that go well with Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe:
1. Collard greens: Boiled collard greens seasoned with salt pork are a classic Southern side dish that pairs well with fried chicken.
2. Mac and cheese: Creamy and cheesy mac and cheese is another popular Southern side dish that goes well with fried chicken.
3. Potato salad: Cold and refreshing potato salad is a great summer side dish that complements the warm and crispy fried chicken.
4. Sweet tea: Sweet tea is a classic Southern drink that is perfect for washing down a plate of fried chicken.
5. Lemonade: Tangy and refreshing, lemonade is another great beverage option that pairs well with Southern cuisine.
In conclusion, serving Southern fried chicken with the right sides and drinks can make for a truly delicious and memorable meal. By following these tips and suggestions, you can take your Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe to the next level and impress your family and friends.
Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe for a Crowd
If you’re looking to serve a crowd with some delicious Southern fried chicken, Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe is the way to go. This recipe yields 8-10 servings and is sure to impress your guests. Here’s how to make it for a big crowd:
How to make Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe for big servings
Ingredients:
– 5-6 pounds fryer chicken cut into 16-20 pieces
– 4 cups buttermilk
– 12 egg yolks
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugarfree cornflakes (plain)
– 4 tablespoons of seasoning salt
– 4 tablespoons garlic
– 4 tablespoons onion powder
– 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
– 2 teaspoons poultry season
– Cooking oil for Deep Fryer
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together buttermilk and egg yolks.
2. Add chicken pieces to the buttermilk and egg mixture and let it marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. In another large bowl, mix together flour, cornflakes, seasoning salt, garlic, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and poultry seasoning.
4. Heat up the deep fryer with cooking oil to 350°F.
5. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture and coat them evenly.
6. Carefully add coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in the deep fryer.
7. Fry the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Serve hot with your favorite sides and drinks.
When making Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe for a crowd, it’s important to have enough space and equipment to handle large amounts of chicken. Use a deep fryer with a large basket to ensure even frying. Also, consider making the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding in the fryer and ensure that each piece cooks evenly.
In terms of sides and drinks, you may want to consider making larger quantities of the suggested options from the previous section. Collard greens, mac and cheese, and potato salad can all be made in big batches to serve a large crowd. For drinks, sweet tea and lemonade can be made in pitchers and served over ice.
In conclusion, Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe is a great option for serving a big crowd with delicious Southern fried chicken. By following the recipe and tips mentioned, you can create a memorable meal for your guests to enjoy.
Healthier Versions
Traditional Southern Fried Chicken may be delicious, but it is often high in fat and calories. However, with a few modifications and alternative ingredients, you can still enjoy the crispy and juicy taste of fried chicken while making it healthier.
Tips and tricks to make Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe healthier
1. Use skinless chicken: Removing the skin from the chicken before cooking will reduce the fat content significantly. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs to keep the dish lean.
2. Oven-bake instead of deep-frying: Instead of deep-frying the chicken, try oven-baking it. Simply coat the chicken in breadcrumbs and seasonings, place it on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and crispy.
3. Use alternative coatings: Instead of using all-purpose flour to coat the chicken, try using whole wheat flour or almond flour. These alternatives have a lower glycemic index and are higher in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
4. Use alternative oils: Instead of using regular vegetable oil, try using coconut oil or avocado oil. These oils have a higher smoke point and are loaded with heart-healthy fats.
Alternative ingredients to use
1. Greek yogurt: Instead of using buttermilk as a marinade, try using Greek yogurt. It provides the same tenderizing effect and adds a tangy flavor to the chicken.
2. Panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are bigger and lighter than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in a crispier coating. They are also lower in calories and fat.
3. Spices and herbs: Experiment with different spices and herbs to add flavor without adding extra salt or fat. Paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano are great options.
4. Cornstarch: Instead of using regular flour to thicken the sauce in chicken pot pie, try using cornstarch. It’s a lower calorie and gluten-free alternative.
In conclusion, making Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe and chicken pot pie healthier doesn’t have to be difficult or sacrifice flavor. By using alternative ingredients and cooking methods, you can still enjoy your favorite Southern dishes without the guilt. Experiment with these tips and tricks to find the perfect balance between taste and nutrition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Southern Fried Chicken is a beloved comfort food enjoyed by many. While traditional recipes may be high in fat and calories, there are plenty of ways to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor. By using alternative ingredients and cooking methods, you can indulge in this classic dish guilt-free.
The popularity of Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe
Sweetie Pie’s Fried Chicken has gained worldwide recognition and has been named one of the 75 best fried chicken dishes in America. The restaurant is famous for its crunchy battered chicken that is seasoned with onion and garlic, making it a hit among food enthusiasts. The popularity of the dish is attributed to its mouth-watering taste and juicy texture, making it stand out from other fried chicken recipes.
Final thoughts on the recipe
Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken Recipe is a classic Southern dish that many people enjoy. While the traditional recipe may not be the healthiest option, there are many ways to make it healthier without sacrificing taste. By using alternative coatings and oils, and experimenting with different spices and herbs, you can create a healthier version of this classic dish.
Overall, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Southern Fried Chicken while still maintaining a healthy diet. Whether you’re a fan of Sweetie Pies Fried Chicken or enjoy making it yourself, there are always ways to modify the recipe to suit your dietary needs. So, go ahead and indulge in this classic comfort food – just be sure to make it a little healthier!