Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe That’ll Wow You!

Name: Southern Fried Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste); ½ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste); Vegetable oil (for frying)

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

August 23, 2025

Updated:

August 23, 2025

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Southern Fried Chicken is a dish that speaks to the soul. Picture crispy, golden-brown chicken with a crunchy coating, juicy meat, and an aroma that fills the room, making your mouth water. It’s the kind of food that has a way of bringing friends and family together for gatherings, barbecues, or just a cozy night in.

The first time I made Southern Fried Chicken, my kitchen turned into a war zone—flour everywhere and me laughing at my own disaster. But once that first crispy bite melted in my mouth, I knew it was worth every floury mishap. Grab your apron because this flavor-packed adventure is about to begin!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Southern Fried Chicken recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, ensuring even novice cooks can impress their loved ones

Its rich flavor profile blends herbs and spices for a deliciously savory experience
The visual appeal of golden crispy chicken is sure to steal the show on any dinner table

Perfect for family gatherings but versatile enough for everyday meals

I remember the look on my friend’s face when he took his first bite; it was pure bliss!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Bone-in Chicken Pieces: Opt for thighs and drumsticks for juicy results; they stay moist during frying.
Buttermilk: The secret ingredient! It tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for that crunchy coating; feel free to experiment with seasoned flour.

Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): These will elevate your chicken’s flavor profile; don’t skimp on them!
Salt and Pepper: Basic yet crucial for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
Vegetable Oil: Use for frying; peanut oil also works well due to its high smoke point.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Marinade the Chicken: Start by pouring buttermilk over your chicken pieces in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight if you can wait.

Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and spices until well mixed. This mixture will give you that flavorful crunch we all love.

Dredge the Chicken: Take each piece of marinated chicken and coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mix. Shake off excess flour before moving on.

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test with a small piece of batter; it should sizzle immediately.

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place chicken pieces in hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry until they are golden brown and cooked through, approximately 12-15 minutes per side.

Drain and Rest: Remove fried chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.

Enjoy your homemade Southern Fried Chicken! With every bite, you’ll find yourself transported back to family dinners filled with laughter and love. Remember, cooking is as much about joy as it is about food!

You Must Know

Southern fried chicken is all about that crispy exterior and juicy interior
The key lies in marinating the chicken for deep flavor, so don’t skip that step!
When frying, listen for that satisfying sizzle—it’s a good sign you’re on the right track

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse every bite with flavor. Then, dredge it in seasoned flour and fry until golden brown. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure a perfectly cooked, crispy outside without burning.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to jazz up your flour mixture with spices like paprika or cayenne for a kick. You can also swap buttermilk for yogurt if you’re feeling adventurous. Personalize it with herbs or spices you love!

Storing & Reheating

Allow leftovers to cool completely before refrigerating them in an airtight container. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 375°F until heated through, ensuring that crispiness returns.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh oil for frying; old oil can dull flavors and ruin texture
Make sure to check the oil temperature before adding chicken for even cooking

Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece room to breathe and fry evenly

Cooking Southern fried chicken always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and the aroma of fried chicken drew everyone together.

FAQs

FAQ

What is the best oil for frying Southern fried chicken?

Use oils with high smoke points like peanut or canola oil for best results.

How long should I marinate my chicken?

Marinate your chicken for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, for maximum flavor.

Can I bake instead of fry Southern fried chicken?

Yes! Bake at 425°F for crispiness without all the oil, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

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