16 Southern Living Best Ever Fried Chicken Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Apr 16, 2024
Fried chicken is a beloved staple of Southern cuisine, with countless variations and recipes claiming to be the best. However, if you're looking for the ultimate fried chicken recipe that will have your taste buds singing, look no further than Southern Living's "Best Ever Fried Chicken" recipe. This tried and true recipe has been perfected over the years, resulting in the crispiest, juiciest, and most flavorful fried chicken you'll ever taste.
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Flour, Ground Black Pepper, Salt, Cayenne
Nothing beats a classic fried chicken recipe. This version is crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. The secret to this recipe is the buttermilk marinade, which tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor. Serve with your favorite sides for a classic meal that never goes out of style.
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Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chickens, Buttermilk, Kosher Salt, Garlic, Sugar
This simple fried chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser. The chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then fried to perfection. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for any day of the week.
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Kentucky Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Frying Oil, Egg White, Flour, Brown Sugar
No list of fried chicken recipes would be complete without the famous Kentucky Fried Chicken. This recipe recreates the classic flavors of KFC, but with a homemade twist. The chicken is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices before being coated in a crunchy breading and fried to perfection.
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Garlic Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Panko Bread Crumbs, Ground Black Pepper, Milk
If you love garlic, then this recipe is for you. This fried chicken is marinated in a garlic-infused buttermilk mixture for maximum flavor. The chicken is then coated in a crispy garlic and herb breading and fried until golden brown. It's garlic heaven in every bite.
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Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Kosher Salt, Sugar, Chickens, Buttermilk
Buttermilk is the secret to tender and flavorful fried chicken. This recipe calls for marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight, resulting in juicy and flavorful chicken. The buttermilk also helps to create a crispy outer layer that is irresistible.
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Crispy Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Buttermilk, Pepper Sauce, Salt, All Purpose
If you love crispy fried chicken, then this recipe is a must-try. The chicken is coated in a double layer of seasoned flour and then fried until extra crispy. The result is a crunchy exterior that gives way to tender and juicy chicken on the inside.
Southern fried chicken is a staple in many households. This recipe stays true to its Southern roots with a blend of spices and a buttermilk marinade. The chicken is fried until golden brown and served with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens.
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Almost Famous Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Buttermilk, Salt, Sugar, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder
This fried chicken recipe is inspired by the famous fried chicken at a popular restaurant chain. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, buttermilk, and hot sauce for maximum flavor. The result is a crispy and spicy chicken that will soon become a family favorite.
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Country Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Buttermilk, Kosher Salt, Hot Sauce, Sugar
Country fried chicken is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe calls for marinating the chicken in a blend of buttermilk and hot sauce for a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. The chicken is then coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried until crispy and golden brown.
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Popeyes Extra-Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Water, Red Pepper Sauce, Flour, Pepper, Paprika
For those who love the extra crispy and spicy chicken from Popeyes, this recipe is a must-try. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, buttermilk, and hot sauce before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried until golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious and spicy meal.
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KFC fried chicken
Main Ingredients: Roasting Chicken, Buttermilk, Eggs, All Purpose Flour
If you're a fan of KFC's fried chicken, then this recipe is for you. This copycat recipe recreates the famous flavors of KFC's fried chicken, but with a homemade twist. The chicken is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, coated in a crispy breading, and fried to perfection.
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Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Heavy Cream, Vinegar, Pork Rinds, Sea Salt
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, then this recipe is for you. The chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then air fried until crispy and golden brown. This method results in a healthier version of fried chicken that is just as delicious.
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Fried Chicken | Easy, Spicy, Hot & Crispy Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Salt, Black Pepper, Paprika, Chicken Thigh, Crushed
This recipe is all about the spice. The chicken is marinated in a blend of hot sauce, spices, and buttermilk for maximum flavor. The result is a spicy and crispy fried chicken that is sure to please anyone who loves a kick of heat in their meal.
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Fried Chicken Without Buttermilk
Main Ingredients: Chicken, All Purpose Flour, Salt, Pepper, Eggs, Oil
If you don't have buttermilk on hand, don't worry, this recipe has got you covered. This fried chicken is marinated in a tangy and flavorful mixture of yogurt and lemon juice. The result is a juicy and tender chicken that is perfect for those who can't have dairy or are looking for a healthier alternative to buttermilk.
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The BEST Keto Fried Chicken EVER.
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Eggs, Whey Protein Powder, Paprika, Salt
For those following a keto diet, this fried chicken recipe is a game-changer. The chicken is coated in a blend of almond flour, parmesan cheese, and spices, and then fried until crispy and golden brown. This recipe proves that you don't have to give up your favorite foods to follow a keto lifestyle.
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Korean Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts Boneless, Large Egg, Cornstarch, Salt
This Korean-inspired fried chicken is a delicious and unique twist on the classic recipe. The chicken is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce and then fried until crispy. The result is a sticky and flavorful chicken that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
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Fried Chicken Wings
Main Ingredients: Chicken Wings, Peanut Oil, Egg, Water, Hot Sauce
Who says fried chicken has to be made with a whole chicken? These fried chicken wings are perfect for game day or as a snack. The wings are coated in a spicy and tangy sauce and then fried until crispy. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a finger-licking good meal.
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Sweet Tea-Brined Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Tea Bags, Firmly Packed Light Brown Sugar, Kosher Salt
This unique recipe combines the flavors of sweet tea and fried chicken. The chicken is brined in a blend of sweet tea and spices, giving it a subtle, sweet flavor. The result is a tender and juicy chicken that is perfect for summertime cookouts.
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Instant Pot Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper
If you're short on time, this recipe is for you. The chicken is cooked in an Instant Pot before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried until crispy. This method results in tender and flavorful chicken in a fraction of the time it takes to make traditional fried chicken.
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Super Crispy Fried Chicken
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Buttermilk, Kosher Salt, Coarse Ground Black
If you love crispy fried chicken, then this recipe is a must-try. The chicken is coated in a double layer of seasoned flour and then fried until extra crispy. The result is a crunchy exterior that gives way to tender and juicy chicken on the inside. Serve with your favorite sides for a meal that will leave you wanting more.
The Secret to the Perfect Fried Chicken
The Brine
One of the key elements that sets Southern Living's fried chicken apart from the rest is the brine. Brining the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, salt, and spices not only adds flavor, but also helps to tenderize the meat and lock in moisture. This step is crucial in achieving juicy and succulent fried chicken, so don't skip it!
The Coating
The coating is another important aspect of this recipe. A combination of flour, cornstarch, and spices creates a light and crispy coating that won't become soggy or greasy. This secret ingredient of cornstarch may seem unconventional, but it's the key to achieving that perfect crunch.
The Technique
The Double Dip
Another unique aspect of this recipe is the double dipping technique. After the chicken has been brined and coated, it's dipped back into the buttermilk mixture before getting a second coating of flour. This may seem like an extra step, but it results in a thicker and crispier crust that is simply irresistible.
Frying in Cast Iron
For the best results, fry the chicken in a cast iron skillet. Not only does this add a touch of nostalgia, but it also ensures even cooking and a perfectly browned crust. The high sides of the skillet also help to contain any splatters and keep the oil at a steady temperature.
The Verdict
After following Southern Living's "Best Ever Fried Chicken" recipe, you'll understand why it has earned its title. This mouthwatering chicken is perfectly seasoned, tender and juicy on the inside, and irresistibly crispy on the outside. So gather your ingredients, get your cast iron skillet ready, and prepare to taste the best fried chicken of your life.
In conclusion, if you want to impress your family and friends with the ultimate Southern comfort food, give this recipe a try. It's a bit of a labor of love, but the end result is well worth the effort. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the deliciousness that is Southern Living's "Best Ever Fried Chicken."
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