Classic Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

  Classic Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

  

 

 

 

Learn how to make crispy and delicious Southern Fried Chicken with our easy-to-follow recipe. This Southern favorite is known for its golden-brown, crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior. Follow these steps to recreate this iconic comfort food in your own kitchen.

Ingredients (Serves 4): For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions :

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Rinse the chicken pieces under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk

1. In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce (if using).
2. Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish.
3. Pour the buttermilk mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for the best flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Coating Mix

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before frying.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F (175°C).
2. While the oil is heating, remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
3. Roll the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour onto the chicken to ensure a good coating.
4. Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack or baking sheet while you finish coating the rest.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

1. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, skin side down.
2. Fry for about 7-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is deep golden brown and crispy.
3. Use tongs to turn the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.
4. Once done, transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the Southern Fried Chicken hot, with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or coleslaw.
2. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of homemade Southern Fried Chicken!