There is nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a crispy, juicy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe that has been lovingly marinated, seasoned, and fried to golden perfection. This beloved dish brings together a harmony of bold spices and the tangy creaminess of buttermilk, creating an irresistible crispy coating that locks in every bit of tender, flavorful chicken underneath. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend treat, this Southern Fried Chicken Recipe will transport your taste buds straight to a warm Southern kitchen, delivering comfort and satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Southern Fried Chicken Recipe plays an essential role. From the tangy buttermilk that tenderizes the chicken to the aromatic spices that add depth, these simple pantry staples come together for an unforgettable flavor and crispy texture.
- 1 whole chicken cut into 8 pieces: The perfect ratio of white and dark meat ensures juicy, varied bites.
- 2 cups buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tang that balances the spices perfectly.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the crispy, golden crust that everyone loves.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness to the flour coating for a crunch that lasts.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite taste well-rounded.
- 2 teaspoons black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor to the seasoning mix.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Contributes a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory note that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the aroma and adds complexity to the crust.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides a gentle kick that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy, woody aroma that balances the spices.
- Vegetable oil for frying: A neutral oil perfect for achieving that perfect golden crisp.
How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken pieces in a large bowl, then pour the buttermilk all over, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor and juiciness. This step is vital because the acidity in the buttermilk tenderizes the meat, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme. This spice blend will give your coating a complex, savory flavor and a beautiful golden color that just screams Southern comfort.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off for just a moment. Then dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently so the flour sticks well. For an extra-crispy finish, let the coated chicken rest for about 10 minutes before frying; this allows the crust to set perfectly.
Step 4: Fry to Perfection
Heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F. Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, skin side down first, and fry for 12 to 15 minutes on each side. The goal is a golden-brown crust with an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee juicy, thoroughly cooked chicken. When done, transfer the pieces to a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
You can elevate your Southern Fried Chicken Recipe with simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. These brighten up the plate and add a burst of freshness that complements the rich, crispy chicken beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery collard greens, tangy coleslaw, or baked macaroni and cheese. Choosing sides that contrast in texture and flavor makes each meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try presenting your Southern Fried Chicken Recipe on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper, accompanied by small bowls of dipping sauces like spicy honey mustard or tangy hot sauce. Adding colorful pickles or cornbread on the side can complete the picture-perfect Southern feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Southern Fried Chicken Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crisp, avoid stacking the pieces too tightly and consider placing paper towels between layers to absorb moisture.
Freezing
If you want to save chicken for longer, freeze cooked pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them into freezer-safe bags. Frozen fried chicken will stay fresh for up to 2 months and can be a quick meal option anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the chicken pieces in a preheated 375°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crunchy coating and juicy interior.
FAQs
Can I use skinless chicken for this Southern Fried Chicken Recipe?
You can, but keep in mind the skin helps create that signature crispy crust and adds extra flavor and moisture. Skinless pieces may be less crispy but still taste delicious if properly coated and fried.
How spicy is this Southern Fried Chicken Recipe?
The cayenne pepper adds a mild warmth that enhances the overall flavor without being overpowering. You can always adjust the cayenne amount to suit your heat preference, either dialing up for a kick or down for a milder taste.
What oil is best for frying chicken?
Vegetable oil is ideal because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point, which helps achieve the perfect crispy crust without burning. Other options include peanut or canola oil if you want to experiment.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. This lets the buttermilk tenderize the meat and infuse it with moisture and flavor for unbeatable juiciness.
Is the Southern Fried Chicken Recipe healthy?
While it is a delicious comfort food rich in protein, it is fried and contains a moderate amount of fat and sodium. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet and pair it with fresh, nutritious sides to keep meals well-rounded.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Southern Fried Chicken Recipe will quickly turn it into one of your go-to dishes for family dinners or weekend treats. Its perfect balance of crispy texture, juicy meat, and bold flavor is truly a delight you want to share with everyone around your table. So get ready to roll up your sleeves and make some delicious memories!
Print
Southern Fried Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Delicious Southern Fried Chicken featuring crispy, golden-brown pieces marinated in buttermilk and seasoned with a blend of spices for a flavorful, classic comfort food experience.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
Seasoned Flour Coating
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (enough for 2 inches deep frying)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, making sure all pieces are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to tenderize and flavor the meat.
- Prepare the flour mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Coat the chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring full coverage.
- Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature.
- Fry the chicken: Working in batches, place the chicken pieces skin side down into the hot oil. Fry each side for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a thermometer to check doneness.
- Drain and rest: Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- For extra-crispy chicken, let the coated pieces rest for 10 minutes before frying to allow the coating to adhere better.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Make sure the oil temperature stays consistent to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
