Southern Fried Chicken is a true comfort food classic that’s loved for its crispy golden crust and juicy, flavorful meat.

This recipe captures the essence of Southern cooking, using a simple seasoning blend and buttermilk marinade to create chicken that’s tender on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside. Whether for Sunday dinner, a family gathering, or just a treat-yourself meal, this fried chicken is sure to hit the spot.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
Mixing bowls
Tongs
Wire rack with a baking sheet underneath
Meat thermometer
Paper towels

Ingredients Overview

Chicken Pieces: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for the best flavor and juiciness.
Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken while adding a tangy flavor.
Seasoned Flour Coating: A blend of flour, paprika, garlic powder, and other seasonings ensures a flavorful crust.
Oil for Frying: Peanut oil or vegetable oil works best for frying due to their high smoke points.

Ingredients

4 pounds chicken (drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or wings)
2 cups buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Rinse the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and eggs. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.

3. Prepare the Flour Coating

In another large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

4. Heat the Oil

Fill a deep frying pan or Dutch oven with enough oil to submerge the chicken, about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate.

5. Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick coating. Set the coated chicken on a plate or wire rack.

6. Fry the Chicken

Carefully place a few pieces of chicken in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Drain and Rest

Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain. This keeps the chicken crispy.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Recipe Tips

Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate in the buttermilk overnight.
Use a Thermometer: To avoid overcooking or undercooking, check the oil temperature and chicken’s internal temperature regularly.
Double Coat for Extra Crunch: Dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and flour for a thicker, crispier crust.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain consistent oil temperature.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with crispy fried chicken.
Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw complements the richness of the chicken.
Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are a Southern classic alongside fried chicken.
Mac and Cheese: Gooey, cheesy mac and cheese rounds out the meal beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but adjust the frying time as boneless pieces cook faster than bone-in chicken.

What’s the best oil for frying?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil is ideal for frying due to their neutral flavor and high smoke points.

Can I bake this instead?
While not traditional, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or spicy ranch.
Pair with classic Southern sides for a complete meal.

This Southern Fried Chicken recipe guarantees perfectly crispy and juicy chicken every time. It’s comfort food at its finest, bringing the flavors of the South straight to your table!