Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe
If there’s one dish that has the power to gather friends and family around the table, it’s Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken. This recipe delivers everything you crave: golden-brown crust that shatters at first bite, impossibly moist and flavorful meat, and just the right kick of southern spices. Whether you grew up eating fried chicken picnics on summer evenings or you’re planning your very first batch, this is a true comfort food hero that transforms the simplest ingredients into a soul-satisfying centerpiece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients list for Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken is refreshingly straightforward, yet every component plays an essential role in building that crave-worthy flavor and unbeatable texture. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need, including a few tricks to bring out the very best in your chicken.
- Whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces): Using a combination of white and dark meat ensures every plate has something for everyone—plus, freshly cut chicken stays juicier during frying.
- Buttermilk: The acidity in buttermilk works wonders to tenderize chicken, giving you supremely juicy results and a tangy undertone.
- Hot sauce (optional): For a Southern-style subtle heat, add your favorite hot sauce to the marinade; it’s not fiery, just flavorful.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of that crispy crust, flour gives the chicken its iconic golden coating.
- Cornstarch: Just a spoonful in the flour mix boosts crunchiness and helps the crust shatter with every bite.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken throughout, ensuring each bite sings with flavor.
- Black pepper: Gives a hint of warmth and depth to the coating without overpowering the other spices.
- Paprika: Adds color and a touch of smoky sweetness to the Southern spice blend.
- Garlic powder: Infuses subtle savoriness, enhancing the chicken’s satisfying flavor.
- Onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning, delivering another layer of classic Southern taste.
- Cayenne pepper: For deeper warmth and a faint, pleasing kick that doesn’t overwhelm.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Choose a neutral high-heat oil for even, crispy frying without flavor interference.
How to Make Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First things first, let the chicken luxuriate in its buttermilk bath. Arrange the chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-top bag, then pour the buttermilk over, swirling in the hot sauce if you’re using it for extra depth. Seal it up, tuck it in the fridge, and chill for at least four hours or overnight. This wait is the secret to meat that’s impossibly juicy and packed with that subtle tang everyone loves.
Step 2: Make the Crispy Coating
While your chicken marinates, bring together the soul of Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken: the dredge. In a broad, shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Cornstarch might sound like a tiny detail, but it makes a world of difference—think extra crunch and lighter texture without heaviness.
Step 3: Dredge and Set Your Chicken
When you’re ready to fry, lift the chicken from its buttermilk pool, letting any excess drip away. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to make sure every nook is coated. For unbeatable crispiness, don’t skip setting the coated chicken on a rack for about 10 minutes; this step helps the flour mixture cling better during frying and means less risk of losing your precious crust.
Step 4: Time to Fry
Pour about two inches of vegetable oil into a deep, heavy skillet or Dutch oven, and heat to a steady 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches (crowding cools the oil too much), gently turning each piece occasionally. After 12–15 minutes, your chicken should reach that mouth-watering golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drain on a wire rack to keep things as crisp as can be—you worked too hard for any sogginess!
Step 5: Rest and Serve
As tempting as it is to dive in, let your crispy, juicy Southern fried chicken rest for a few minutes on a rack. This little breather allows the juices to settle and the crust to lock in all its crackling goodness. Break out the biscuits, pour yourself some sweet tea, and get ready for pure joy.
How to Serve Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken
Garnishes
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving can amplify the crunch, and a scattering of chopped fresh parsley or thyme brings a beautiful pop of color and herby aroma. Lemon wedges are a classic, too—squeezing a bit over piping hot fried chicken adds brightness that cuts through richness for the ultimate first bite.
Side Dishes
No plate of Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken is complete without old-school sides. Fluffy buttermilk biscuits, peppery coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob all bring that down-home feel to your feast. For something fresh, try a big bowl of vinegary cucumber salad; it’s great for balancing the dish’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Set up a “fried chicken bar” for casual gatherings, offering small pieces with an array of dips like honey mustard, spicy ranch, or hot honey. Or stack big, beautiful pieces on a wooden platter family-style, nestled next to fresh herbs and pickles—it’s dramatic, and just so inviting! For a twist, serve chicken atop waffles and drizzle with syrup for a fun, southern breakfast-for-dinner vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep the magic alive, cool any leftover chicken completely before storing it. Place the pieces in an airtight container, stacking with parchment paper for the best results. Stored properly in the fridge, Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken stays tasty for up to three days. While the coating may lose its just-fried crispness, the flavors deepen and remain delicious.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save extra pieces, freeze completely cooled chicken individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This prevents sticking and makes it easy to grab one or two pieces at a time. Frozen chicken will keep its flavor and texture best for about one month; longer might affect crispiness, but the taste still shines.
Reheating
For the crunchiest results, skip the microwave and use your oven or air fryer. Arrange chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. This lets the coating get crisp again while the meat warms evenly, so you’ll recapture that signature bite of Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken.
FAQs
Can I use only certain parts of the chicken?
Absolutely! If your family loves drumsticks or prefers breast meat, just use your favorites. Keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and cut, so check for an internal temp of 165°F for doneness.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! Make a quick substitute by mixing 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for five minutes before using; it will add the same tangy tenderness you want in Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken.
Can I make this gluten-free?
You can! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend and be sure to check that your cornstarch is gluten-free as well. The final texture may be slightly different, but you’ll still get fantastic flavor and plenty of crunch.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Color isn’t everything—use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of each piece is 165°F (74°C). The outside should be a deep golden brown and the juices should run clear.
Why does my breading sometimes fall off?
This can happen if the chicken is too wet or if you skip the resting step after dredging. Letting the coated chicken rest on a rack helps the breading cling better during frying for picture-perfect results every time with your Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sharing Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken you made yourself—every golden bite is a celebration of simplicity and Southern flavor. Once you master this recipe, you’ll want to break it out for everything from Sunday suppers to summer cookouts. Gather your crew, pass the biscuits, and dig in!
Print
Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make the most delicious Crispy, Juicy Southern Fried Chicken right in your own kitchen. This classic recipe yields tender, juicy chicken with a perfectly seasoned, crispy coating that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces)
Marinade:
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
Seasoned Flour:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
For Frying:
- vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken, buttermilk, and hot sauce in a bowl or bag. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: Mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a dish.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each piece in the flour mixture, then rest on a rack.
- Fry the Chicken: Fry in batches until golden and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Drain on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
- For extra-crispy chicken, double-dip in buttermilk and flour after the initial dredging.
- Serve with biscuits, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes for a classic Southern meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 pieces
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 26g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
