Crispy and Juicy Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken is a crispy, golden-brown delight with a crunchy coating and juicy, flavorful meat. Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or gatherings, this recipe delivers that authentic Southern taste with a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

• Crispy & Golden – A perfectly seasoned, crunchy crust with juicy, tender chicken inside.
• Marinated for Maximum Flavor – Buttermilk and spices make the chicken extra juicy and flavorful.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it for dinner, at cookouts, or as a comfort food favorite.

Ingredients for Crispy Southern Fried Chicken

For the Marinade:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Coating:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.

2. Prepare the Coating

1. In a large shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and baking powder.
2. Remove each chicken piece from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
3. Coat generously in the flour mixture, pressing the coating into the chicken for an even crust.

3. Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be about 2 inches deep.
2. Carefully add the coated chicken to the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary.
3. Fry for 10–12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or mac and cheese.

Tips for the Best Fried Chicken

1. Marinate Overnight – The longer the chicken marinates, the juicier and more flavorful it becomes.
2. Use Cornstarch for Extra Crispiness – It adds a light, crunchy texture to the coating.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and crispiness.
4. Check the Temperature – Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

What to Serve with Southern Fried Chicken

Pair this crispy fried chicken with these delicious sides:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• Buttery Cornbread
• Classic Coleslaw
• Southern-Style Mac and Cheese
• Collard Greens

More Comfort Food Recipes to Try

Love this recipe? Try these other Southern classics:

• Chicken Pot Pie with Creamy Veggie Filling
• Crispy Bacon and Egg Hash Browns
• Salisbury Steak with Mashed Potatoes

For even more delicious ideas, visit our Pinterest page.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours before frying.
• Storage: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to keep it crispy.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg

Conclusion

This Crispy and Juicy Southern Fried Chicken delivers everything you love about homemade fried chicken—crunchy, golden skin with juicy, flavorful meat inside. Whether for Sunday dinner, game day, or a picnic, this classic recipe is always a winner!

Save this recipe and try it today! Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest for easy access.

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