Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

 Southern Fried Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Juicy, and Irresistible

Few dishes capture the heart and soul of Southern cooking like Southern Fried Chicken. With its golden, crispy crust and tender, juicy interior, this dish is a staple in comfort food culture. Whether served at family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or special occasions, this classic fried chicken recipe delivers flavor and nostalgia in every bite.

If you've ever wondered how to achieve perfectly crispy, golden-brown fried chicken, this recipe will guide you through the process with step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and serving suggestions. Get ready to make the best homemade fried chicken that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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Why This Southern Fried Chicken Recipe Stands Out

Crispy and Flavorful Coating – A well-seasoned flour mixture creates a crunchy texture with just the right amount of spice.

Juicy, Tender Chicken – A buttermilk and egg wash ensures each bite is moist and full of flavor.

Easy-to-Follow Steps – Simple, no-fail instructions guarantee success, even for beginners.

Classic Southern Flavor – Inspired by traditional recipes passed down through generations.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Chicken:

2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, or wings) – The star of the dish, providing juicy meat beneath the crispy crust.

1 cup milk – Helps create a rich, tender texture when combined with eggs.

2 beaten eggs – Helps the flour coating adhere to the chicken, ensuring an even, crispy crust.

For the Seasoned Coating:

2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the crispy coating, creating the perfect crunchy texture.

2 teaspoons paprika – Adds mild heat and a beautiful golden color to the crust.

1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning – Enhances the overall flavor with a blend of herbs and spices.

4 teaspoons garlic salt – Infuses the coating with savory depth while ensuring the chicken is well-seasoned.

2 teaspoons black pepper – Adds just the right amount of heat to balance the other spices.

For Frying:

Vegetable oil or peanut oil (for frying) – A high-smoke-point oil ensures the chicken fries to a perfect crisp without burning.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. This step helps the coating stick better and prevents excess splattering when frying.

Step 2: Make the Egg Wash

2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the milk and beaten eggs until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoned Flour Mixture

3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, paprika, poultry seasoning, garlic salt, and black pepper thoroughly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

4. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated.

5. Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even, thick coating.

6. For extra crispy fried chicken, repeat the process by dipping the chicken in the egg wash and coating it in flour again.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

7. In a large cast-iron skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). A thermometer ensures the oil is at the right temperature for frying.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

8. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding.

9. Fry for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Drain and Rest

10. Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Southern Fried Chicken

✔ Use a thermometer – Keep oil temperature at 350°F to ensure even cooking and prevent greasy chicken.

✔ Double-dip for extra crunch – A second coat of flour creates a thicker, crispier crust.

✔ Let the chicken rest before frying – After coating, let the chicken sit for 10 minutes to help the flour adhere.

✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches for even cooking and maximum crispiness.

✔ Drain properly – A wire rack prevents soggy bottoms by allowing air circulation.

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What to Serve with Southern Fried Chicken

Complete your meal with classic Southern sides:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A comforting pairing with crispy fried chicken.

Buttermilk Biscuits – Soft, buttery, and perfect for soaking up flavors.

Cornbread – A slightly sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Coleslaw – Adds a refreshing crunch to balance the richness.

Mac and Cheese – The ultimate Southern comfort food side.

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Final Thoughts: The Best Homemade Southern Fried Chicken

This Southern Fried Chicken recipe is everything you love about classic comfort food—crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. With the right seasonings, frying techniques, and pro tips, you can create restaurant-quality fried chicken at home.

So, gather your ingredie

nts, heat up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy the best crispy fried chicken you’ve ever had. Let us know in the comments how it turned out!