Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe for Soul-Warming Comfort

Crispy, golden fried chicken brings memories of Sunday gatherings around our family table.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this classic comfort dish through careful techniques and love.

Spices dance across tender meat, creating a symphony of flavors that make taste buds sing.

Marinating transforms ordinary poultry into an extraordinary meal everyone craves.

Southern kitchens have long celebrated this crowd-pleasing favorite with secret seasoning blends.

Perfect crunch and juicy interior await those ready to master this beloved recipe.

You won’t believe how simple creating restaurant-quality fried chicken can be with these foolproof steps.

What Makes This Fried Chicken Special

• Packed with bold spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne, this fried chicken delivers an explosion of mouthwatering taste in every crispy bite.
• The unique two-step coating process of buttermilk marinade and seasoned flour ensures an incredibly crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in juicy chicken goodness.
• Easily customize the spice level by adjusting cayenne pepper, making this recipe perfect for those who love mild or fiery flavors, from family dinners to game day gatherings.
• Requires basic kitchen skills and minimal ingredients, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to create restaurant-quality fried chicken with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Ingredients for Fried Chicken Recipe

• Chicken: Tender meat base for the crispy fried dish.
• Buttermilk: Helps tenderize and adds tangy flavor.
• Hot Sauce: Optional spicy kick for extra flavor.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers.

• All-Purpose Flour: Creates crispy exterior for chicken.
• Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Adds depth and complexity to coating.
• Cayenne Pepper: Provides optional heat and spice.

• Vegetable Oil: Provides medium for deep frying chicken.

How to Fry Chicken Perfectly

Step 1: Marinate and Flavor the Chicken

Grab a large mixing bowl and create a zesty buttermilk bath for your chicken.

Pour in buttermilk, splash of hot sauce, sprinkle of salt, and crack of black pepper.

Submerge chicken pieces completely, ensuring every inch gets coated.

Cover and let the magic happen in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor explosion.

Step 2: Create Magical Coating Mix

• All-purpose flour
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk these ingredients together until they’re perfectly blended and ready to transform your chicken.

Step 3: Prepare Frying Station

Heat oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven until it reaches a sizzling 350°F.

Pull chicken from its buttermilk bath, letting excess drip away.

Roll each piece generously in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick, crunchy coating.

Step 4: Rest and Set Coating

Place flour-coated chicken on a wire rack.

Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.

This crucial resting period helps the coating stick like a dream and ensures ultimate crispiness.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Gently lower chicken pieces into hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd.

Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.

Watch for a gorgeous golden-brown exterior and ensure internal temperature hits 165°F.

Use a slotted spoon to transfer crispy pieces onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Plate your magnificent fried chicken alongside classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, or fluffy buttermilk biscuits.

Step 7: Spice It Up (Optional)

Craving extra heat?

Amp up the cayenne or splash additional hot sauce into your flour mixture for a fiery kick.

Key Tips for Crispy Fried Chicken

• Use full-fat buttermilk for extra tenderness and richer flavor in your chicken marinade.
• Press flour mixture firmly onto chicken to create a thicker, crispier crust that won't fall off during frying.
• Keep oil consistently at 350°F to ensure even cooking and prevent greasy, soggy chicken.
• Let fried chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels to maintain crispiness and prevent soggy bottom.
• Adjust cayenne pepper gradually to find your perfect heat level without overwhelming the chicken's natural flavor.

How to Store Fried Chicken Right

• Place leftover fried chicken in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Wrap each piece individually in aluminum foil to maintain crispiness and prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap cooled chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label the container with the date to track freshness.
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to help retain crispiness. Bake for 10-15 minutes, turning once halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken pieces in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Reheat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until skin becomes crispy and chicken is heated thoroughly.

Pair With Fried Chicken

• Refreshing Citrus Lemonade Pairing: Bright, tangy lemonade cuts through the rich, crispy fried chicken, offering a zesty palate cleanser that balances the heavy flavors and provides a cool, refreshing contrast.
• Southern-Style Comfort Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery buttermilk biscuits, and creamy coleslaw complement the chicken's crispy texture, creating a classic Southern comfort food experience that feels like a warm hug.
• Wine and Beverage Match: Choose a crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer such as pilsner to cut through the chicken's richness, enhancing the meal's overall flavor profile and providing a sophisticated dining experience.
• Pickle and Condiment Boost: Serve tangy dill pickles or homemade pickle spears alongside the chicken, with a side of honey mustard or ranch dressing for dipping, adding extra layers of flavor and texture to each crispy bite.

Fried Chicken Twists to Explore

• Gluten-Free Crunch: Replace wheat flour with rice flour or gluten-free cornmeal for a crispy coating that's safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Herb-Infused Chicken: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour mixture for an aromatic flavor profile that elevates the classic recipe.
• Baked Lighter Option: Swap deep-frying with oven-baking at 425°F, using a wire rack to help achieve a crispy exterior while reducing overall oil content.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Substitute flour with crushed pork rinds or almond flour, and use low-carb buttermilk alternative to create a protein-packed, low-carbohydrate chicken dish.

FAQs

• Why marinate chicken in buttermilk?

Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicier and more flavorful. The acidic nature breaks down proteins, creating a softer texture and enhancing overall taste.

• Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best for this recipe. However, you can substitute with rice flour or cornstarch for a crispier coating, though traditional wheat flour provides the most classic texture.

• How do I know the oil is at the right temperature?

Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the oil is exactly 350°F. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of flour into the oil – if it sizzles immediately and rises to the top, the oil is ready for frying.

• What's the secret to getting a crispy coating?

Let the coated chicken rest for 15-20 minutes before frying. This allows the flour to stick better and creates a crunchier exterior when fried.

Fried Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Crispy, golden Fried Chicken elevates comfort food to an art form, blending Southern hospitality with irresistible flavor. Perfectly seasoned and crunchy, this classic dish promises a satisfying meal that brings friends and family together around the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3–4 pounds (1.36–1.81 kilograms) chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, or breast pieces)
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) buttermilk
• 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil for frying

Seasoning and Spices:

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Salt and Pepper:

• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Immerse chicken pieces in a zesty buttermilk bath infused with hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Refrigerate for 4-8 hours to enhance flavor and tenderize meat.
2. Create a robust seasoning blend by combining flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper in a wide container.
3. Heat cooking oil to 350°F in a deep skillet, preparing for crispy transformation.
4. Extract chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip away. Thoroughly coat each piece in the spiced flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage.
5. Position flour-dusted chicken on a wire rack for 15-20 minutes, enabling coating to set and adhere perfectly.
6. Gently lower chicken pieces into hot oil, maintaining space between them. Fry for 12-15 minutes, rotating occasionally to achieve uniform golden-brown exterior.
7. Monitor internal temperature, ensuring chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
8. Transfer fried pieces to paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, allowing chicken to rest briefly.
9. Plate alongside classic accompaniments like creamy mashed potatoes or tangy coleslaw.
10. For adventurous palates, amplify heat by increasing cayenne or incorporating additional hot sauce into flour mixture.

Notes

• Use boneless chicken for quicker cooking and easier eating, perfect for those who prefer convenience.
• Buttermilk is the secret weapon for tenderizing meat, creating incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken every single time.
• Let chicken come to room temperature before frying to ensure even cooking and prevent cold spots in the meat.
• Pat chicken completely dry before dredging to help the flour coating stick better and create a crispier exterior.
• Double-dredge chicken by dipping back into buttermilk and flour for an extra thick, crunchy coating that stays crisp longer.
• Opt for neutral oils like vegetable or peanut oil with high smoke points to prevent burning during deep-frying.
• Monitor oil temperature carefully; consistent 350°F ensures crispy exterior without greasy or undercooked chicken.

• Prep Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 100mg