Southern Fried Chicken is a timeless classic, known for its crispy golden crust and juicy, flavorful meat. This dish is deeply rooted in Southern tradition, where marinating the chicken in buttermilk ensures tenderness, while a well-seasoned flour coating delivers the perfect crunch. Whether served at family gatherings or weekend feasts, this recipe guarantees restaurant-quality fried chicken right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, wings)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional, for a slight kick)
For the Coating
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- ½ teaspoon Creole seasoning
For Frying
- 2 cups peanut oil or vegetable oil
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, poultry seasoning, and Creole seasoning.
- Dredge the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Dip each piece into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the flour to adhere.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a cast iron skillet or deep fryer, heat peanut oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Fry dark meat (thighs, drumsticks) for 12-15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes.
- Fry white meat (breasts, wings) for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Pair with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a true Southern feast!
This Southern Fried Chicken delivers crispy, flavorful perfection in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or indulging in comfort food, this recipe is a must-try! You can find more details here.