Welcome to the ultimate guide for making delicious Crispy Southern Fried Chicken! This classic recipe results in perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken with a golden, crispy crust. It’s perfect for family dinners, picnics, or any occasion where you want to serve up some comfort food. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Southern Fried Chicken is a timeless favorite that’s all about flavor and texture. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk for tenderness, coated in a seasoned flour mixture for a flavorful crust, and fried to crispy perfection.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or 4-6 chicken legs and thighs)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (for extra crispiness)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying
Equipment
- Large mixing bowls
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Tongs
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Meat thermometer