Irresistible Southern Fried Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

Name: Southern Fried Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 4 bone-in chicken pieces (drumsticks and thighs); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Vegetable or peanut oil for frying

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

November 15, 2025

Updated:

November 15, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Southern Fried Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that brings a crunchy, savory delight to your plate. Picture juicy, tender chicken coated in a golden-brown crust that crackles with every bite, releasing an enticing aroma that can make even the most disciplined dieter weak at the knees.

This dish isn’t just about food; it’s about family gatherings, barbeques, and lazy Sunday dinners when everyone gathers around the table to chow down. I remember making Southern Fried Chicken for the first time; my kitchen turned into a battlefield of flour and spices, but the delicious results were worth every chaotic moment.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Southern Fried Chicken recipe offers an easy preparation method while delivering a mouthwatering flavor explosion

Its visual appeal with crispy golden skin makes it irresistible
Enjoy it as a main dish or sandwich filling, perfect for any occasion!

I still chuckle when my friends declared it the best fried chicken they’d ever tasted, leading to an impromptu “chicken-off” competition in my backyard!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Chicken Pieces: Use bone-in pieces for juiciness. Drumsticks and thighs are my favorites for maximum flavor.
Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken beautifully. The tangy flavor enhances your overall frying experience.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for that crispy coating. Don’t skimp on seasoning to elevate your experience.

Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the natural flavors of chicken.
Cayenne Pepper: A pinch adds heat without overpowering the dish; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Cooking Oil: Choose vegetable or peanut oil for frying; high smoke points are key here!

Garlic Powder: This adds depth to your flour mixture. It’s like giving your chicken a secret weapon!
Paprika: Not just for color! It also brings smokiness that complements the other flavors well.

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

Let’s Make it together

Marinate the Chicken: Start by soaking your chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible. This step ensures maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.

Prepare Your Coating Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper until evenly mixed. It should smell tantalizingly good!

Dredge the Chicken: Remove each piece from the buttermilk and let excess drip off before dredging in your seasoned flour mix. Make sure every nook and cranny is coated well.

Heat Your Oil: In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat about an inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A little sprinkle of flour can test readiness—if it sizzles, you’re set!

Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into hot oil skin-side down. Fry for about 12-15 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Drain and Rest: Once perfectly fried, transfer chicken onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest for at least 5 minutes; this helps keep them juicy!

Enjoy your Southern Fried Chicken with sides like coleslaw or cornbread! Each bite will be packed with crunch and flavor that will leave you wanting more.

You Must Know

Southern fried chicken is all about the seasoning and oil temperature
This dish benefits from a crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside
The smell of frying chicken will have everyone in your household flocking to the kitchen

Use a thermometer for perfect results every time

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least two hours, then dredge it in seasoned flour, ensuring even coverage. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until golden brown, turning occasionally for uniform cooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the buttermilk for yogurt or add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra kick. You can also introduce herbs like rosemary or thyme into the flour mix for a unique flavor twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover southern fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes to restore its crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve maximum crispiness, let your chicken rest on a wire rack after frying
Always test your oil with a small piece of bread; it should sizzle immediately when ready
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C)

I remember the first time I tried making southern fried chicken; my friends devoured it and begged me for more. Their happy faces made all the effort worthwhile, and now it’s my go-to recipe for gatherings.

FAQs

FAQ

What is the best oil for frying southern fried chicken?

Peanut oil is ideal due to its high smoke point and flavor profile.

Can I make southern fried chicken in the oven?

Yes, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes.

How can I make my fried chicken extra crispy?

Double-dipping in egg and flour before frying enhances crispiness significantly.

0 Shares