St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken - recette canadienne de poulet
Easy

St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken

45 min4520 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|April 1, 2024

This homemade take on Quebec's most iconic fried chicken nails the golden crust and subtle spice blend that's made St-Hubert a household name since 1951. Buttermilk-brined pieces get double-dredged in a paprika-thyme coating, then deep-fried until crackling and juicy—serve it with coleslaw and fries for the full rotisserie experience at home.

bbq-smokedquébécois

Ingredients

Servings:
4

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Double Dredge Crunch

“After the buttermilk soak, coat the pieces in flour, dip them back into the seasoned buttermilk, then coat again; this double layer creates the signature St‑Hubert crust that stays crisp even after a brief rest before frying.”

About This Recipe

St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken holds a special place in the hearts of many Canadians, especially those from Quebec. This dish transports you back to childhood memories of family gatherings and the comforting aroma of fried chicken wafting through the air. What makes it unique is the perfectly seasoned crust, a delightful blend of paprika, onion powder, thyme, sage, and a hint of cinnamon, providing a complex flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. It's a hearty dish that’s perfect for casual dinners or festive occasions, and it embodies the spirit of Canadian comfort food.

When you bite into this succulent chicken, expect a satisfying crunch that gives way to juicy, tender meat. The combination of herbs and spices not only enhances the flavor but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for your family. Canadians love to whip up this dish not only for its rustic charm but also for its ability to bring everyone together around the dinner table, sharing laughter and stories over a classic meal.

Tips for the Best St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken

To ensure your St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 74°C (165°F). To avoid dryness, let the chicken marinate in the seasoned coating for a bit before frying. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and helps form that coveted crispy crust. Fry the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy skin.

What to Serve With It

Serve your St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken hot out of the fryer with a side of creamy coleslaw and crispy French fries for a classic pairing. Drizzle generous amounts of St-Hubert BBQ sauce over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping. For a touch of Canadian flair, consider adding a fresh corn on the cob or a seasonal green salad to brighten up the plate and round out the meal.

Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, which helps maintain its crispy texture. If you want to freeze it, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Per Serving

520
Calories
28g
Protein
25g
Fat
38g
Carbs
Fiber5g
Sugar9g
Sodium448mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of chicken should I use for this recipe?+

For St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken, I recommend using bone-in thighs or breasts. Thighs tend to be juicier and less likely to dry out during frying.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?+

Absolutely! While traditional recipes often use vegetable oil, you can use canola or peanut oil, which have high smoke points and will give you that crispy texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?+

If you're looking for a kick, try adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the spice mixture. Adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken before frying?+

While it's not mandatory, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. It’s definitely worth the wait.

Can I bake this chicken instead of frying it?+

Yes, you can! For a healthier version, bake the coated chicken at 200°C (400°F) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
20 min
Cook:
25 min
Total:
45 min
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Easy

Pro Tips

  • 1Pat chicken dry before the final dredge to help the coating stick better
  • 2Keep fried pieces warm in a 95°C (200°F) oven on a wire rack while finishing batches
  • 3Save 3 tbsp of the seasoned flour to make gravy with the pan drippings
  • 4Chicken is crispiest within 30 minutes of frying—avoid covering tightly or steam will soften the crust

Variations

  • Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper to the flour for a spicy kick
  • Substitute regular milk mixed with 1 tbsp lemon juice if buttermilk isn't available
  • Oven version: bake coated chicken at 200°C (400°F) for 40-45 minutes on a greased rack, flipping once

BBQ & Smoked Chicken

St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken

This St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken is pure comfort food. Save it before you forget!

by ChickenRecipes.ca

St-Hubert-Style Fried Chicken - recette canadienne de poulet
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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