Why Make This Recipe
Southern fried chicken is a classic dish loved for its crispy coating and juicy meat. Making it at home gives you the chance to enjoy this comforting meal anytime you want. It is perfect for family gatherings, a Sunday dinner, or just when you crave something delicious. This recipe is simple and allows for lots of flavor, making it a favorite among many.
How to Make The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken
Ingredients:
- Whole chicken, cut into pieces
- Buttermilk
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- Soak the chicken: Start by soaking the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or, for the best flavor, overnight.
- Prepare the coating: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Once the chicken has soaked, remove it from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, coat each piece in the flour mixture thoroughly.
- Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or a large skillet, heat oil to a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken: Carefully fry the chicken in batches until it is golden brown and cooked through. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and serve: Remove the chicken and drain it on paper towels to get rid of excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken
Southern fried chicken is best served hot, straight from the fryer. Pair it with classic sides such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. You can also serve it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or honey mustard, to enhance the flavor.
How to Store The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken
If you have leftovers, carefully store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fried chicken will be good for 3-4 days. To keep the chicken crispy, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature instead of the microwave.
Tips to Make The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken
- Brine for Flavor: For extra flavor, consider brining the chicken in a saltwater solution before soaking it in buttermilk.
- Double Dredge: For an extra crispy coating, you can dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and then the flour mixture again.
- Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature. Keeping it consistent ensures even cooking and crispy skin.
Variations
You can change the spices in the coating to create your own flavor. Consider using herbs like dried thyme or rosemary, or add a bit of chili powder for more kick. Some people also like to add a bit of hot sauce to the buttermilk for an extra zing.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or any other parts of the chicken. Just adjust the cooking time as breasts will cook faster than legs or thighs.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute for buttermilk by mixing milk with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is done frying?
You can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for the chicken to be safe to eat. If you don’t have one, check that the juices run clear before removing it from the oil.
Southern Fried Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off, then coat each piece in the flour mixture thoroughly.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve hot, paired with sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread.
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