Southern fried chicken is a beloved dish that has stood the test of time. Its crispy, golden exterior and juicy, flavorful meat make it a staple in households and restaurants across the South. While there are many variations of this classic dish, this allrecipes article will give you a foolproof recipe for creating the perfect southern fried chicken at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some expert tips, you'll be serving up a plate of finger-licking good chicken in no time.
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Water, Hot Sauce, Baking Powder
Get ready to add some heat to your traditional Southern fried chicken recipe! This spicy version features a combination of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, and chili powder for a fiery kick. Serve with some cool ranch dressing for the perfect balance of flavors.
This classic Southern fried chicken recipe is a must-try for any fried chicken lover. The chicken is coated in a delicious buttermilk and egg mixture before being dredged in a seasoned flour mixture. The result is a crispy and flavorful chicken that will have you coming back for seconds.
If you're looking for a more traditional take on Southern fried chicken, this recipe is for you. It features a simple yet flavorful coating of flour, salt, and pepper and is fried to perfection in vegetable oil. Serve with some mashed potatoes and gravy for the ultimate comfort food meal.
For a fun twist on traditional fried chicken, try making these crispy chicken strips. They are coated in a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, and are then fried to golden perfection. Dip them in some honey mustard for a delicious and kid-friendly meal.
5of 16
Southern Fried Chicken Wings
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, All Purpose Flour, Grated Parmesan
These finger-licking good Southern fried chicken wings are perfect for game day or any gathering with friends and family. The chicken is coated in a spicy batter and fried until crispy and golden. Serve with some blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for the ultimate snack.
6of 16
Buttermilk-Brined Southern Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Buttermilk, Hot Sauce, Minced Garlic, Fresh
The key to this tender and flavorful Southern fried chicken is the buttermilk brine. The chicken is soaked in a mixture of buttermilk, garlic, and spices before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to perfection. This technique ensures a juicy and delicious chicken every time.
If you're looking for a recipe that combines all the best elements of Southern fried chicken, this is it. This ultimate version features a crispy and flavorful coating made with a combination of flour, cornmeal, and spices. It's fried until golden and crunchy and is sure to become a family favorite.
This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier version of Southern fried chicken. The chicken is coated in a mixture of paprika, garlic powder, and breadcrumbs before being baked instead of fried. The result is a crispy and flavorful chicken that is lower in fat than traditional fried chicken.
This recipe takes Southern fried chicken to the next level with an extra crispy coating. The chicken is coated in a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and spices before being fried until crunchy and golden. Serve with some coleslaw and cornbread for a true Southern meal.
10of 16
Vegan Southern Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Super Firm Tofu, Vital Wheat Gluten, Nutritional Yeast
Yes, you read that right - this recipe is for vegan Southern fried chicken! The chicken is actually made from cauliflower florets, coated in a flour and spice mixture, and then fried until crispy and golden. Serve with some vegan ranch dressing for a delicious and plant-based alternative to traditional fried chicken.
For a healthier and less messy take on Southern fried chicken, try using an air fryer. The chicken is coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs, spices, and Parmesan cheese and then air fried until crispy and golden. Serve with some honey mustard for a delicious dipping sauce.
This copycat recipe for Cracker Barrel's famous Southern fried chicken is a must-try. The chicken is dipped in a buttermilk and egg mixture before being coated in a flour and spice mixture and fried until crispy and golden. Serve with some mashed potatoes and green beans for a true Southern meal.
13of 16
The Ultimate Southern Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Kosher Salt, All Purpose Flour, Cornstarch
This recipe truly lives up to its name - it is the ultimate Southern fried chicken recipe. The chicken is coated in a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and spices before being fried until crispy and golden. Serve with some mac and cheese and collard greens for a delicious and satisfying meal.
14of 16
Extra-Crunchy Southern Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Paprika, Freshly Ground Black Pepper, Garlic Powder
If you're a fan of extra crunchy fried chicken, this recipe is for you. The chicken is coated in a mixture of crushed cornflakes, flour, and spices before being fried until extra crispy. Serve with some honey mustard for a delicious dipping sauce.
For a southern delicacy, try making fried chicken livers. They are coated in a buttermilk and egg mixture and then dredged in a seasoned flour mixture before being fried until crispy and golden. Serve with some hot sauce for a spicy and flavorful twist on traditional fried chicken.
If you prefer white meat, you can still enjoy Southern fried chicken with this recipe for fried chicken breasts. The chicken is coated in a flour and spice mixture and then fried until juicy and flavorful. Serve with some honey mustard for a delicious dipping sauce.
The Key to Perfect Southern Fried Chicken
Ingredients
To make the best southern fried chicken, you'll need chicken pieces, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and oil for frying. These are the basic ingredients for a classic southern fried chicken recipe, but feel free to add your own twist with additional spices or herbs.
Preparation
The first step to making delicious southern fried chicken is to season your chicken pieces well. This is crucial for achieving that signature flavor. In a bowl, mix together flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, making sure they are evenly coated. This will not only add flavor but also help create that crispy exterior we all love.
Frying Method
The key to achieving a perfectly crispy southern fried chicken is in the frying method. Heat a deep frying pan with oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to reach 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don't have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
Carefully place the chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the cooked chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Southern fried chicken is best served hot and crispy. You can serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread. For a true southern experience, drizzle some hot sauce or honey over the chicken for an added kick of flavor.
In Conclusion
With this simple and delicious recipe, you can now make perfect southern fried chicken at home. Remember to use quality ingredients and pay attention to the cooking method to achieve that crispy and flavorful chicken we all know and love. So, gather your ingredients, get frying, and enjoy a taste of the South with this classic dish.