Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

 The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken Recipe – Crispy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

Nothing beats Southern Fried Chicken—a dish that’s golden, crispy, and seasoned to perfection with a juicy, tender center. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a backyard gathering, or a Sunday feast, this homemade fried chicken will steal the show. The secret? A well-balanced buttermilk marinade, a perfectly seasoned flour coating, and the right frying technique to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best Southern fried chicken batter, explain the role of each ingredient, and provide expert tips to help you achieve crunchy, mouthwatering results every single time.

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Ingredients for the Perfect Southern Fried Chicken

For the Marinade:

2 cups buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and infuses flavor.

1 tablespoon hot sauce – Adds a subtle heat and enhances seasoning.

1 teaspoon salt – Draws out moisture for better flavor penetration.

1 teaspoon black pepper – Gives a mild kick and depth to the marinade.

For the Seasoned Flour Coating:

2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for the crispy, golden crust.

1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall taste.

1 teaspoon black pepper – Balances the seasoning.

1 teaspoon paprika – Adds color and a mild smoky flavor.

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Brings a subtle heat (adjust for spice preference).

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses a deep, savory taste.

1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Adds another layer of rich, umami flavor.

1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps create a light, crispy texture.

For Frying:

1 quart vegetable oil or peanut oil – High smoke point for crispy, evenly fried chicken.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Southern Fried Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.

2. Submerge the chicken breasts or thighs in the mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results). This step ensures juicy, flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour Coating

4. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and baking powder.

5. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning throughout the flour.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken for the Ultimate Crisp

6. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off.

7. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to create a thick, even coating.

8. For an extra crispy texture, dip the floured chicken back into the buttermilk, then dredge in the flour again (double coating technique).

Step 4: Heat the Oil for Frying

9. In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

10. Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature—this prevents greasy or undercooked chicken.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

11. Gently place the coated chicken into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

12. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side (for boneless breasts) or 12-15 minutes (for bone-in pieces), until golden brown and crispy.

13. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

14. Remove the chicken and drain on a wire rack over a baking sheet to keep it crispy.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

15. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving—this allows the juices to redistribute.

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Why This Southern Fried Chicken Recipe is Loved

✅ Crispy & Crunchy Coating – The flour mixture and baking powder create an airy, golden crust.

✅ Juicy & Flavorful Inside – The buttermilk marinade ensures tender, mouthwatering chicken.

✅ Perfectly Balanced Seasoning – A blend of spices enhances every bite without overpowering the natural taste.

✅ Tried & True Southern Classic – This recipe honors authentic Southern cooking traditions.

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Pro Tips for the Best Fried Chicken

⭐ Use Buttermilk for the Marinade – It helps break down proteins for extra tenderness.

⭐ Double-Coat for Maximum Crunch – A second flour coating locks in a crisp, flaky texture.

⭐ Fry in Batches – Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken.

⭐ Rest on a Wire Rack – This keeps the crust crisp rather than making it soggy on paper towels.

⭐ Season Immediately After Frying – A light sprinkle of salt while hot enhances flavor.

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What to Serve with Southern Fried Chicken

Complete your Southern feast with these classic side dishes:

Creamy Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing crunch.

Buttery Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – A hearty, comforting pairing.

Cornbread – Sweet, savory, and perfect for soaking up juices.

Collard Greens – A Southern staple with smoky, slow-cooked flavor.

Mac & Cheese – Rich, cheesy, and the ultimate comfort food.

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Final Thoughts: The Best Southern Fried Chicken You’ll Ever Make

This homemade Southern Fried Chicken recipe delivers crunchy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned goodness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving authentic, down-home comfort food, this recipe will become a family favorite.

So fire up the stove, grab your ingredients, and enjoy the 

crispiest, most flavorful fried chicken you’ve ever made! If you try this recipe, let us know how it turns out—because nothing beats homemade Southern cooking!