Southern Fried Chicken – Crispy, Juicy, Classic Comfort

Southern Fried Chicken is the ultimate comfort food—crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and packed with bold, savory flavors. This classic dish brings a taste of Southern hospitality straight to your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or weekend gatherings, it’s a recipe that delivers all the indulgence of fried chicken with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy & Golden: A perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating.
Juicy & Tender: Chicken stays moist and flavorful inside.
Classic Southern Flavor: Garlic, paprika, and black pepper bring authentic taste.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)
• 2–3 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (or overnight for maximum flavor).

2. Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, mix flour and cornstarch. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken
Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crunch, double dredge by dipping back in buttermilk and then flour again.

4. Heat Oil
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add chicken pieces, working in batches if needed.

5. Fry the Chicken
Fry for 12–15 minutes per side (depending on size) until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

6. Serve
Serve hot with your favorite sides such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a true Southern feast.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 18g
Protein: 28g
Fiber: 0g

Tips for Success

• Use Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and enhances flavor.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep it around 350°F for crispy, golden chicken.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in batches to avoid steaming instead of crisping.
• Double Coat: For extra crunch, repeat the dredging process.

Why This Recipe Works

Marinating in buttermilk, seasoning well, and frying at the right temperature ensures the chicken stays juicy while the exterior develops a perfectly crunchy crust. Each bite delivers authentic Southern flavor with classic, comforting appeal.

Southern Fried Chicken is a timeless classic that combines crispy, golden perfection with tender, flavorful meat. Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings the heart of Southern cooking to your table, creating a meal that’s indulgent, satisfying, and unforgettable.