Crispy & Fried

Southern Fried Chicken

Name: Southern Fried Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) chicken pieces, such as legs, thighs, and wings; 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk; 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Vegetable oil for frying; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

By Wren Merriweather · June 19, 2026 · Crispy & Fried

Prep30 min

Cook20 min

Total60 min

Serves4

There's nothing quite like the taste of Southern Fried Chicken, with its crispy exterior and juicy interior. Growing up, my family would often make this dish for special occasions, and it quickly became a favorite of mine. Now, I'm excited to share my own recipe for Southern Fried Chicken with you, so you can enjoy it with your loved ones.

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. We're using just a few ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of crunch and juiciness. From the buttermilk marinade to the spicy seasoning blend, every step is designed to bring out the best in our chicken.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with your favorite sides, from mashed potatoes to coleslaw, and it's perfect for any time of day. Whether you're looking for a comforting dinner or a satisfying lunch, Southern Fried Chicken is sure to hit the spot.

So, let's get started! With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you'll be on your way to making delicious Southern Fried Chicken that's sure to become a family favorite.

In this recipe, we'll be covering all the basics, from preparing the chicken to frying it to perfection. We'll also be discussing some tips and tricks for getting that perfect crunch, and how to avoid common mistakes that can ruin your dish. By the end of this recipe, you'll be a pro at making Southern Fried Chicken, and you'll be able to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The buttermilk marinade adds a rich, creamy flavor to the chicken.
The spicy seasoning blend adds a nice kick of heat to the dish.
The combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch creates a light, airy coating.
The recipe is perfect for any night of the week, and can be served with a variety of sides.
The dish is sure to become a family favorite, and is perfect for special occasions.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great Southern Fried Chicken is all about the layers of flavor and texture. We start with a buttermilk marinade, which helps to tenderize the chicken and add a rich, creamy flavor. Then, we dredge the chicken in a spicy seasoning blend, which adds a nice crunch and a kick of heat.

When we fry the chicken, we're using a combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch to create a light, airy coating. This helps the chicken to cook evenly and prevents it from becoming too greasy. We're also using a thermometer to ensure that our oil is at the perfect temperature, which is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.

Finally, we're letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, which allows the juices to redistribute and the coating to set. This is what makes our Southern Fried Chicken so juicy and flavorful, and it's the perfect way to cap off a delicious meal.

By following these simple steps and using a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that's sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their meal routine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making Southern Fried Chicken, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. We're using a few simple ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the buttermilk to the spicy seasoning blend, every ingredient is carefully chosen to bring out the best in our chicken.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items that will add depth and richness to your dish. For example, use real buttermilk instead of a substitute, and choose a spicy seasoning blend that's made with fresh, high-quality spices.

2 lbs (900g) chicken pieces, such as legs, thighs, and wingsYou can use any combination of chicken pieces you like, but be sure to choose ones that are similar in size so they cook evenly. If you're using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry with paper towels before using.
1 cup (240ml) buttermilkButtermilk is essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding a rich, creamy flavor. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice.
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is a must-have for making Southern Fried Chicken, as it provides a light, airy coating that's perfect for frying. Be sure to use a high-quality flour that's fresh and has a good texture.
1/2 cup (60g) cornstarchCornstarch helps to create a crispy coating on the chicken, and is especially important for achieving that perfect crunch. Be sure to use a high-quality cornstarch that's fresh and has a good texture.
1 teaspoon paprikaPaprika adds a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the chicken, and is a key ingredient in many Southern-style dishes. Be sure to use a high-quality paprika that's fresh and has a good flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powderGarlic powder adds a rich, savory flavor to the chicken, and is a must-have for making Southern Fried Chicken. Be sure to use a high-quality garlic powder that's fresh and has a good flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powderOnion powder adds a sweet, slightly savory flavor to the chicken, and is a key ingredient in many Southern-style dishes. Be sure to use a high-quality onion powder that's fresh and has a good flavor.
1 teaspoon saltSalt is essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken, and is a must-have for making Southern Fried Chicken. Be sure to use a high-quality salt that's fresh and has a good flavor.
1/2 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper adds a sharp, slightly spicy flavor to the chicken, and is a key ingredient in many Southern-style dishes. Be sure to use a high-quality black pepper that's fresh and has a good flavor.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepperCayenne pepper adds a spicy kick to the chicken, and is a key ingredient in many Southern-style dishes. Be sure to use a high-quality cayenne pepper that's fresh and has a good flavor.
Vegetable oil for fryingVegetable oil is essential for frying the chicken, and is a must-have for making Southern Fried Chicken. Be sure to use a high-quality vegetable oil that's fresh and has a good flavor.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor to the chicken, and is a key ingredient in many Southern-style dishes. Be sure to use a high-quality fresh parsley that's fresh and has a good flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsInstant-read thermometerPaper towels

How to Make Southern Fried Chicken

1
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3
Heat about 1/2-inch (1cm) of vegetable oil in a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C).
4
Carefully place 3-4 pieces of the coated chicken into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the skillet.
5
Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the breast.
6
Remove the fried chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7
Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken pieces.
8
Once all the chicken is fried, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the coating to set.
9
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
10
To serve, place the fried chicken on a plate or platter and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits.
11
If desired, serve with a side of honey or hot sauce for added flavor.

Expert Tips

Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying the chicken. If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken is cooked through.
Don't overcrowd the skillet. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary, to ensure that each piece has enough room to cook evenly.
Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the coating to set.
Experiment with different seasonings and spices to find your favorite flavor combination.
For extra crispy coating, try chilling the coated chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying.
To make the dish more substantial, serve with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
For a spicy kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture before marinating the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not using a thermometer to check the oil temperature, resulting in undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Overcrowding the skillet, leading to uneven cooking and a greasy coating.
Not letting the chicken rest before serving, resulting in a dry and tough texture.
Not using enough oil, resulting in a coating that sticks to the skillet.
Not patting the chicken dry before dredging in flour, resulting in a coating that doesn't adhere properly.
Not using a high-quality flour or cornstarch, resulting in a coating that's dense and heavy.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version of the recipe.
Experiment with different seasonings and spices, such as smoked paprika or garlic powder, to find your favorite flavor combination.
Add some heat to the dish by incorporating diced jalapenos or serrano peppers into the buttermilk mixture.
For a lighter coating, try using panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers instead of all-purpose flour.
To make the dish more substantial, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed sweet potatoes.
For a vegan version, try using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken, and substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy milk.
To add some extra crunch, try topping the fried chicken with toasted chopped nuts or seeds.

What to Serve With Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to complement its rich, savory flavor. Some classic options include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits, but feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations. For a lighter option, try serving with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Whatever you choose, be sure to serve the fried chicken hot and enjoy the ooohs and aahhs from your family and friends.

Some other ideas for serving Southern Fried Chicken include serving it with a side of honey or hot sauce, or using it as a topping for a salad or sandwich. You could also try serving it with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes, or with a simple green salad. Whatever you choose, be sure to have fun and get creative with your serving options.

Mashed potatoesColeslawBiscuitsRoasted vegetablesSaladHoneyHot sauce

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Once the fried chicken is cooked, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and hot.

If you want to freeze the fried chicken, it's best to do so before reheating. Simply place the cooled chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and put it in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and hot.

It's also possible to make the fried chicken ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it before frying. Simply prepare the chicken up to the point of frying, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook. When you're ready to fry, simply remove the chicken from the refrigerator or freezer and proceed with the recipe as instructed.

When storing or reheating the fried chicken, be sure to keep it in a single layer to prevent the coating from becoming soggy. You can also try using a wire rack to elevate the chicken and allow air to circulate underneath, which can help keep the coating crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of oil is best for frying chicken?

The best type of oil for frying chicken is one with a high smoke point, such as peanut or vegetable oil. This will help prevent the oil from burning or smoking during the frying process. You can also use other oils like canola or grapeseed, but be sure to choose a high-quality oil that's fresh and has a good flavor.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

The best way to know when the oil is at the right temperature is to use a thermometer. The ideal temperature for frying chicken is between 350°F (180°C) and 375°F (190°C). If you don't have a thermometer, you can also test the oil by dropping a small piece of food into it. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

Can I use a non-stick skillet to fry the chicken?

Yes, you can use a non-stick skillet to fry the chicken, but be sure to choose a high-quality skillet that's designed for high-heat cooking. Non-stick skillets can be more prone to overheating, which can cause the coating to stick to the pan. To prevent this, be sure to heat the oil slowly and carefully, and don't overcrowd the skillet.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off the chicken?

To prevent the coating from falling off the chicken, be sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before dredging it in flour. This will help the coating adhere to the chicken more evenly. You can also try chilling the coated chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying, which can help the coating set and prevent it from falling off during cooking.

Can I make the fried chicken ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it?

Yes, you can make the fried chicken ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it. Simply prepare the chicken up to the point of frying, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook. When you're ready to fry, simply remove the chicken from the refrigerator or freezer and proceed with the recipe as instructed.

How do I reheat the fried chicken without making it soggy?

To reheat the fried chicken without making it soggy, be sure to heat it in a single layer on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and hot. You can also try using a wire rack to elevate the chicken and allow air to circulate underneath, which can help keep the coating crispy.

Can I use a different type of milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use a different type of milk instead of buttermilk. Some options include almond milk, soy milk, or regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Keep in mind that using a different type of milk may affect the flavor and texture of the fried chicken, so you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to know when the chicken is cooked through is to use a thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can also check the chicken by cutting into it and looking for any signs of pinkness or undercooking.

Can I make the fried chicken in a deep fryer?

Yes, you can make the fried chicken in a deep fryer. Simply heat the oil to the correct temperature and fry the chicken in batches until it's golden brown and crispy. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the deep fryer and take necessary safety precautions to avoid burns or other accidents.

The Full Recipe

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