I’m revisiting the classic Barberton chicken recipe, a beloved Ohio staple that’s been satisfying families for generations. This dish combines crispy fried chicken, tangy coleslaw, and a side of chunky beans for a meal that’s both comforting and memorable. ✨
The secret to authentic Barberton chicken lies in its triple-frying technique, which yields incredibly crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy. I’ll walk you through the process, from preparing the chicken to making the signature coleslaw that accompanies it.
By following this recipe, you’ll achieve that perfect balance of crunch and flavor that defines Barberton chicken. Let’s start cooking this Ohio classic from scratch, ensuring every bite is as satisfying as the original.
Serve with chunky beans and your homemade coleslaw for an authentic experience. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for barberton chicken coleslaw
Here’s everything you need to create authentic Barberton chicken with tangy coleslaw.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Thighs 🍗 | 4 pieces | Bone-in, skin-on for best flavor |
| All-Purpose Flour 🌾 | 2 cups | For dredging chicken |
| Paprika 🌶️ | 2 tbsp | Smoked or sweet variety |
| Garlic Powder 🧄 | 1 tsp | For seasoning mix |
| Salt 🧂 | 1 tsp | Kosher or sea salt |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ½ tsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Buttermilk 🥛 | 2 cups | For marinating chicken |
| Vegetable Oil 🫒 | 2 cups | For frying chicken |
| Cabbage 🥬 | 2 cups | Shredded, for coleslaw |
| Carrots 🥕 | 1 cup | Grated, for coleslaw |
| Vinegar 💧 | ½ cup | White vinegar for coleslaw |
| Sugar 🍮 | 2 tbsp | For coleslaw dressing |
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For the best Barberton chicken, find quality ingredients at your local grocery store or butcher. Use fresh, crisp cabbage for the coleslaw and choose buttermilk that's not too thin. For frying, vegetable oil with a high smoke point works best, such as peanut or canola oil.
If you can't find buttermilk, make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken. For the coleslaw, you can adjust the vinegar and sugar to taste. If you prefer a creamier coleslaw, add a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise.
Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Fried chicken is best served immediately, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven to crisp it back up.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Barberton Chicken with Coleslaw
Let’s dive into the classic Barberton chicken recipe with its signature coleslaw – a match made in culinary heaven.
👨🍳 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken for Frying
In a large bowl, I combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp of paprika, 1 tsp of garlic powder, 1 tsp of salt, and 0.5 tsp of black pepper. Whisking these dry ingredients together ensures they’re evenly distributed, creating a consistent flavor profile in the coating. The paprika adds a subtle smokiness that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
Pour 2 cups of buttermilk into a separate large bowl. The acidity in the buttermilk is crucial as it tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating adhere. Dip each chicken thigh into the buttermilk, coating it completely, then roll it in the flour mixture to coat. I like to press the coating onto the chicken gently to ensure it adheres well. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to rest for 5-10 minutes before frying.
🔥 Step 2: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F. I use a thermometer to maintain the precise temperature, as this is crucial for achieving crispy, golden-brown chicken without it becoming greasy. When the oil reaches the correct temperature, carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil. Fry for 8-10 minutes or until they reach a deep golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F.
Once fried, transfer the chicken to a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken stays moist and tender.
👨🍳 Step 3: Make the Classic Barberton Coleslaw
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cabbage and 1 cup of grated carrots. The mix of textures and colors creates a visually appealing slaw that complements the fried chicken beautifully. In a small bowl, whisk together 0.5 cup of vinegar and 2 tbsp of sugar until the sugar dissolves. This dressing is tangy and slightly sweet, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich fried chicken.
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots, tossing to coat evenly. I like to let the slaw sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. The slight wilting of the cabbage also makes it easier to coat with the dressing.
🍽️ Step 4: Serve the Barberton Chicken with Coleslaw
To serve, place a piece of the fried chicken on each plate alongside a generous helping of the coleslaw. The combination is a classic for a reason – the crispy, spicy chicken pairs perfectly with the cool, tangy slaw. For an authentic touch, serve with a side of fries or onion rings, just like in traditional Barberton restaurants.
The result is a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that has been delighting locals and visitors alike for generations. Each bite of the crispy chicken followed by a refreshing crunch of slaw creates a truly satisfying meal.
The Barberton chicken coleslaw recipe is a staple side dish that pairs perfectly with the city’s signature fried chicken. This crunchy, tangy slaw is more than just a condiment – it’s a flavor enhancer that complements the savory, spicy flavors of Barberton chicken. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! 😋
🔪 Preparing the Ingredients
To start, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: shredded cabbage, grated carrots, mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. You can use a food processor to shred the cabbage and grate the carrots, or do it the old-fashioned way with a mandoline and box grater.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
📝 Assembling the Slaw
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and grated carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until the slaw is well coated.
💡 Tips for the Perfect Slaw
For the best results, use a mix of red and green cabbage for a pop of color and added flavor. You can also add a handful of chopped fresh parsley or dill for extra freshness. Refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. ⏰
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 0 minutes | 15 minutes |
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Barberton Chicken Coleslaw
These tried-and-tested tips will help you achieve authentic Barberton chicken and coleslaw at home.
Temperature Control: In Step 2, maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F is crucial. Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy, as this prevents greasy chicken and promotes even cooking. Let the oil reheat between batches if necessary. 🔥
Slaw Preparation: For the coleslaw in Step 3, letting it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly, enhancing the overall taste and texture. You can prepare it ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Make-Ahead Strategy: You can prepare the chicken coating mixture and slaw dressing ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to cook.
Storage Tips: Leftover chicken stays crispy for 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. The coleslaw keeps for 3 days in the fridge. 🌡️
Nutrition Facts
540kcal
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Trained in classic French technique but raised on slow-cooked ribs and spicy rubs, she blends culinary skill with smoke and soul.
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