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Southern Fried Chicken Recipe 🍗

August 16, 2025

Crispy, golden-brown fried chicken with a perfectly seasoned crust—just like grandma used to make! This classic Southern recipe delivers juicy meat and a crunchy exterior every time.

Ingredients

For the Brine (Optional but Recommended)

  • 4 cups buttermilk (or 2 cups milk + 2 tbsp vinegar)
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Chicken

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (or 4 lbs drumsticks/thighs)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil or peanut oil (enough for 2 inches deep in a skillet)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brine the Chicken (For Juiciness)

  1. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Submerge chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).

2. Prepare the Dredging Station

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
  2. Remove chicken from brine, letting excess drip off (do not rinse).

3. Dredge the Chicken

  1. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
  2. For extra crunch, dip back into buttermilk brine, then into flour again (double-dredge).
  3. Let coated chicken rest 10-15 minutes (helps coating stick better).

4. Fry to Golden Perfection

  1. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet or Dutch oven.
  2. Fry chicken in batches (don’t overcrowd!) for:
    • 12-15 mins (dark meat: thighs/drumsticks)
    • 10-12 mins (white meat: breasts/wings)
  3. Turn occasionally until deep golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Drain on a wire rack (not paper towels—keeps it crispy).

5. Serve Hot!

  • Best enjoyed fresh with sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or biscuits.

Pro Tips for the Best Fried Chicken

🔥 Maintain oil temp (too low = greasy, too high = burnt outside/raw inside).
🍗 Use a thermometer—165°F in the thickest part ensures safety.
🌶 Spice it up! Add extra cayenne or smoked paprika for a kick.
🔄 Reheat leftovers in an air fryer or oven to restore crispiness.