What makes Maryland Fried Chicken different from any other fried chicken?

There isn't actually a specific type of fried chicken called "Maryland Fried Chicken." It's a bit of a misnomer.

What people *might* mean when they say "Maryland Fried Chicken":

* Southern Fried Chicken: Maryland, like many southern states, has a strong tradition of Southern-style fried chicken. This is often characterized by:

* Crispy, golden brown skin: achieved with a dredge of flour, seasoned with salt, pepper, and often paprika.

* Juicy, flavorful meat: due to slow cooking and a combination of buttermilk and seasoning in the batter.

* Larger pieces: often using the whole chicken, including drumsticks, thighs, wings, and breasts.

* Regional Variations: Some people may associate "Maryland Fried Chicken" with specific regional variations within the state, such as:

* Baltimore-style: some restaurants may use a particular seasoning blend, batter technique, or frying method specific to the area.

The Takeaway:

There's no official "Maryland Fried Chicken" recipe or style. It's more of a general term used to refer to fried chicken prepared in a Southern-style way, which is common in Maryland.

If you're looking for a specific recipe or style, you'll likely find that most Maryland fried chicken restaurants are simply serving excellent Southern-style fried chicken.