Crispy Southern Fried Chicken
This classic Southern Fried Chicken is everything comfort food should be extra crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and packed with bold Southern flavor. Marinated in buttermilk for maximum tenderness, then coated in a perfectly seasoned flour mixture, this homemade fried chicken delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Fried Chicken:
Ultra-crispy crust that stays crunchy
Juicy, tender chicken thanks to buttermilk marination
Authentic Southern-style flavor
Perfect for family dinners, picnics, Sunday meals, and holidays
Easy, budget-friendly, and made with pantry staples
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
Vegetable oil or peanut oil, for frying
Instructions:
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with rich flavor.
In a large shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until evenly mixed.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to ensure a thick, crispy coating.
Heat about 2 inches of oil in a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium heat until it reaches 325–350°F (165–175°C).
Carefully place the chicken pieces skin-side down into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 12–15 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Let rest for a few minutes to keep the crust crispy before serving.
Serving Ideas:
Serve this Southern fried chicken with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, cornbread, or mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort-food meal.
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Crispy Southern fried chicken made with a buttermilk marinade and perfectly seasoned coating. Juicy, golden, and full of classic Southern comfort-food flavor easy homemade recipe.
