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Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

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This southern fried chicken recipe is a comfort food classic featuring juicy chicken pieces marinated in buttermilk, dredged in seasoned flour, and fried until golden brown and crispy. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, wings, or breasts)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch (optional, for extra crunch)
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
  3. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and dredge thoroughly in seasoned flour mixture. Shake off excess.
  4. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Carefully place chicken pieces in hot oil without overcrowding. Fry in batches if needed.
  6. Cook until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 12–15 minutes for drumsticks/thighs, and 8–10 minutes for wings.
  7. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep the coating crisp.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.
  • Cajun or Creole seasoning can be swapped in for a spicier coating.
  • Bake at 400°F for 35–40 minutes after dredging for a lighter version.
  • Use peanut, canola, or vegetable oil for best frying results.
  • Check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F at thickest part).

Nutrition

Find it online: http://elladishes.com/southern-fried-chicken-recipe/