Q. Why do fried chicken recipes recommend marinating the chicken in buttermilk before battering and frying? Is this absolutely necessary?

Elyanna Samsudin Fried chicken tastes better when the chicken is marinated in buttermilk prior to frying.

A. It's not absolutely necessary, but it is recommended for fried chicken. Buttermilk imparts a good flavor and helps the coating stick to the chicken. Its acid content tenderizes the meat. The chicken should be marinated -- in the refrigerator, of course -- at least one hour or overnight. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, substitute plain yogurt or milk, to which a small amount of lemon juice or vinegar has been added (1 teaspoon per 1 cup milk).

To learn more about fried chicken, see:

• Chicken Recipes
• Breading Chicken
  
• Chicken Safety
  
• Coating and Breading Chicken