The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken

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If I had to pick one dish that screams comfort and celebration all at once, it would be The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken. There is something irresistible about the sound of crispy, golden crust crackling beneath your teeth, followed by juicy, flavorful chicken that’s been seasoned to perfection. This recipe has a soul to it – it tells a story of home, tradition, and family gatherings where everyone races to grab their favorite piece.

I’ve made a lot of fried chicken in my life, but this version is the one that brings people back for seconds and thirds. It’s all about the balance of a bold, seasoned flour coating and the tender brined meat underneath. Whether you’re new to frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe brings out the best of Southern comfort cooking. The kitchen fills with the smell of spices and sizzling oil, and that first bite always gets a round of happy sighs.

To really nail it, I brine the chicken overnight in a buttermilk bath with seasonings that soak deep into the meat. Then comes the flour dredge, thick and seasoned, which clings lovingly to every curve of the chicken. And when it hits the oil? Pure magic. Paired with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a slice of soft white bread, it becomes the centerpiece of an unforgettable meal. If you’re into indulgent dishes like my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, crave crowd-pleasers like The Ultimate Taco Casserole Recipe, or love the saucy depth of Marry Me Chicken, you’re going to fall hard for this one.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Fried Chicken

This Southern Fried Chicken isn’t just crispy – it’s loud with crunch. The buttermilk brine keeps it juicy, and the spice blend in the flour means you get flavor in every bite, not just the surface. It’s perfect for weekend dinners, special occasions, or potlucks where you want to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – make it spicy, make it herby, or even turn it into a sandwich base. Whether hot from the fryer or enjoyed cold the next day, this chicken holds its magic.

Ingredients

Chicken drumsticks or bone-in thighs: These cuts are juicy and perfect for frying, holding up well to brining and cooking without drying out.

Buttermilk: Essential for brining, it tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with tangy flavor.

Hot sauce: A few dashes in the brine add a welcome kick and flavor depth.

All-purpose flour: The base for our seasoned dredge that creates that signature crispy crust.

Cornstarch: A game-changer for extra crunch and lighter texture in the coating.

Salt and pepper: Foundational seasonings that ensure the chicken is flavorful from the inside out.

Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper: These spices bring bold Southern flavor to the flour mixture, giving every bite a punch.

Oil for frying (like peanut or canola): High smoke point oils are perfect for getting the chicken golden and crisp without burning.

How to Make The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix buttermilk with hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Submerge the chicken pieces completely and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. This step ensures juicy, well-seasoned chicken every time.

Step 2: Prep the Dredge

In a wide dish, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk brine, letting excess drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere the dredge well. Set on a rack to rest for 15 minutes – this helps the coating stick better when frying.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or cast-iron skillet, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Fry chicken in batches without overcrowding the pan. Cook each piece for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep the crust crisp.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Give the chicken 5 minutes to rest before serving. This keeps the juices inside and prevents burning your mouth with that first excited bite.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want a spicier version, you can increase the cayenne pepper or add chili powder to the flour dredge. For a herby note, mix in dried thyme or rosemary. Want a gluten-free option? Use a gluten-free flour blend and double-check your cornstarch. You can also swap out the buttermilk for plain yogurt thinned with water or milk if needed.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this Southern Fried Chicken hot with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, collard greens, or macaroni and cheese. For a refreshing contrast, try it with a chilled broccoli salad or pickled cucumbers. It also makes a killer sandwich with slaw and hot honey.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating. You can also freeze the fried chicken for up to a month – just thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

FAQs

What makes The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken so crispy?

The secret lies in the combination of flour and cornstarch, along with a rest time before frying that allows the dredge to adhere well. Frying at the right oil temperature seals the crust quickly.

Can I use boneless chicken for The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken?

Yes, but keep in mind boneless cuts like chicken breasts cook faster and may not be as juicy as bone-in pieces. Adjust frying time accordingly and don’t overcook.

How long should I marinate chicken for The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken?

Ideally, marinate in buttermilk overnight, but a minimum of 4 hours will still yield flavorful results.

What kind of oil is best for frying The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken?

Choose oils with a high smoke point like peanut, canola, or vegetable oil. They maintain stability during frying and won’t overpower the chicken’s flavor.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

Looking to explore more flavor-packed favorites? Don’t miss my Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken for a tangy-sweet twist or Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini if you’re craving pasta comfort food with a Southern flair.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this recipe made your mouth water, be sure to save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime you need a crispy comfort fix. Share it on Facebook, Instagram, or with friends who appreciate seriously good fried chicken. Trust me, they’ll thank you!

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