In recent years, the culinary world has increasingly embraced celebrities from outside the kitchen, but few crossovers have felt as authentic or flavorful as that of Snoop Dogg. Known primarily for his decades-long career as a rapper, entrepreneur, and cultural icon, Snoop surprised many with the 2018 release of his cookbook, From Crook to Cook: Platinum Recipes from Tha Boss Dogg’s Kitchen. The book is a celebration of comfort food, soul staples, and casual elegance, with one dish rising to the top as a standout: OG Fried Chicken.
This isn’t just another fried chicken recipe. Snoop’s approach blends Southern tradition with personal flair, staying true to classic techniques while emphasizing accessibility and bold flavor. The result is a dish that feels equally at home on a Sunday dinner table or at a high-profile Hollywood afterparty.
A Homage to Soul Food Traditions
Snoop Dogg’s OG Fried Chicken is deeply rooted in the legacy of Southern cooking, where fried chicken holds a central place in family meals, celebrations, and community gatherings. What makes his version memorable is its straightforward execution and robust seasoning. There’s no need for complex brines or experimental coatings just quality ingredients, patience, and attention to detail.
The chicken is marinated in buttermilk for several hours (ideally overnight), which tenderizes the meat and ensures it remains moist during frying. It’s then dredged in a seasoned flour mixture featuring garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper spices that enhance the chicken without overpowering it. Finally, it’s fried to golden-brown perfection in hot vegetable oil, resulting in a crispy exterior that gives way to succulent, flavorful meat.
Recipe: OG Fried Chicken
Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 4–12 hours (marinating time)
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces) | 1 whole (or 2.5–3 lbs) | Cut into parts (legs, thighs, wings, etc.) |
| Buttermilk | 2 cups | For marinating the chicken overnight |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | For dredging the chicken |
| Garlic powder | 1 tbsp | Part of the seasoning blend |
| Paprika | 1 tbsp | Part of the seasoning blend |
| Salt | To taste | For seasoning the chicken and flour |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground, for seasoning |
| Vegetable oil | As needed (for frying) | To fry the chicken to golden perfection |
Instructions:
- Marinate:
Place chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Cover with buttermilk and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. - Season the Flour:
In a large bowl, mix flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine evenly. - Heat the Oil:
Fill a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven with 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil. Heat to 350°F (175°C). - Dredge the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to adhere. - Fry Until Golden:
Working in batches, fry chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on size. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). - Drain and Rest:
Remove chicken from oil and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.
More Than a Recipe: A Personal Statement
While the technique is traditional, the cultural context of this recipe is unmistakably Snoop’s. His foray into food isn’t a vanity project it’s a genuine expression of his background, values, and connection to community. The cookbook is peppered with anecdotes, slang, and style, making it an extension of his personality. The OG Fried Chicken, like much of his culinary work, celebrates food as a unifier rich with memory, soul, and joy.
Snoop Dogg’s OG Fried Chicken is more than a celebrity recipe it’s a masterclass in comfort food. By grounding his method in time-tested Southern traditions and delivering it with charisma and clarity, Snoop offers home cooks a chance to experience a dish that’s both deeply rooted and irresistibly modern. Whether you’re a fan of hip-hop, home cooking, or both, this fried chicken belongs in your recipe rotation.
