Can you par-boil chicken and still soak it in buttermilk?

Yes, you can absolutely par-boil chicken and still soak it in buttermilk!

Here's why it's a good idea:

* Tenderness: Par-boiling helps tenderize the chicken, especially tougher cuts like thighs and drumsticks. This makes it even more receptive to the buttermilk's moisture and flavor.

* Flavor: Buttermilk itself adds a delightful tangy and slightly acidic flavor to the chicken. The par-boiling process won't diminish this effect.

* Even Cooking: Par-boiling brings the chicken closer to its internal cooking temperature, allowing for more even and quicker cooking in your chosen method (frying, baking, grilling, etc.).

Here's how to do it:

1. Par-boil: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Gently lower the chicken pieces into the water and simmer for about 5-7 minutes (for thighs and drumsticks). For breast pieces, you might only need 3-5 minutes.

2. Cool and Soak: Remove the chicken from the boiling water and immediately immerse it in a bowl of cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps the chicken cool quickly.

3. Buttermilk Soak: Once the chicken is completely cooled, transfer it to a container and cover it with buttermilk. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Remember to pat the chicken dry before cooking to achieve a crispy skin. Enjoy your delicious and juicy buttermilk-soaked chicken!