Description
This Southern Fried Chicken recipe delivers crispy, golden perfection every time. Learn the secrets to achieving juicy, flavorful chicken with an irresistible crispy crust. A classic Southern comfort food perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2–3 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, breasts)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 4 cups peanut oil or vegetable shortening, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Seasoned Flour: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a bag or bowl, cover with buttermilk, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk, let excess drip off, and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing to adhere. Double dredge for extra crispiness.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet to 325-350°F (160-175°C). Fry chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain: Remove chicken and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Notes
- For extra crispy chicken, double dredge in buttermilk and flour.
- Ensure chicken is cold before frying to help the coating adhere.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to maintain oil temperature.
- Use a wire rack to drain excess oil and keep the chicken crispy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Southern fried chicken, fried chicken recipe, crispy fried chicken, buttermilk fried chicken, Southern chicken fry, easy fried chicken recipe, homemade fried chicken