The Best Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken is an iconic dish that has been passed down through generations. Crispy, golden-brown, and bursting with flavor, this recipe will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a Sunday meal, this Southern fried chicken will undoubtedly become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers everything you love about Southern fried chicken—crispy, seasoned to perfection, and juicy on the inside. What makes it stand out is the marinating process with buttermilk and hot sauce, which not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with incredible flavor. The addition of cornstarch in the coating results in a crispier texture, while the seasoning blend ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Whether served on its own or with your favorite sides, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction to every meal.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut up (or 8 pieces of your favorite cuts of chicken)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 Tablespoons hot sauce
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• Peanut oil (for frying)
• Flaked salt (for serving, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Place the whole chicken, cut up, in a large bowl. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, and 2 teaspoons of onion powder over the chicken, tossing to coat evenly.
2. Add 2 cups of buttermilk and 2 tablespoons of hot sauce to the chicken. Stir to combine, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cornstarch, 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 2 teaspoons of paprika, and 2 teaspoons of black pepper. Set aside.
4. Fill a deep fryer (or large pot) with peanut oil, preheating it to 325°F. If you’re using a cast iron skillet, remember it retains heat well, so monitor the temperature carefully.
5. One at a time, take the marinated chicken pieces, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Coat each piece in the flour mixture, making sure it’s thoroughly covered. Shake off any excess flour, and let the coated chicken sit for a few minutes to allow the coating to set.
6. Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry in batches, turning the chicken every few minutes for even cooking.
7. Fry the chicken until it is golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Dark meat usually takes about 12-14 minutes, while white meat takes 8-10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with flaked salt, if desired. Continue frying the remaining chicken pieces.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Chilling Time: 8 hours (best if marinated overnight)
• Total Time: 8 hours 24 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Southern Fried Chicken: Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture to give the chicken a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch for a gluten-free fried chicken option.
• Air-Fried Option: For a healthier version, you can air fry the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover fried chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to help retain its crispy texture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet with a little oil to get the coating crispy again.
  

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use any neutral frying oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, in place of peanut oil.

2. Why do I need to let the chicken marinate overnight?

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce tenderizes the meat and allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, resulting in more flavorful and juicier fried chicken.

3. Can I fry the chicken in a pan instead of a deep fryer?

Yes, you can use a large, deep skillet. Just make sure to maintain the oil temperature around 325°F for the best results.

4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F when tested with a meat thermometer. The chicken should also be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight, and fry it the next day. Leftover fried chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

6. How can I make the fried chicken extra crispy?

Ensure you coat the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture and let it sit for a few minutes before frying. You can also double-coat the chicken for extra crunch.

7. Is it necessary to use cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps make the coating extra crispy. If you prefer, you can substitute it with an additional cup of flour, but cornstarch yields the best texture.

8. Can I fry chicken in batches?

Yes, fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer, which can lead to uneven cooking. Frying in batches ensures the chicken becomes golden brown and crispy.

9. What sides go well with Southern fried chicken?

Southern fried chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, cornbread, and macaroni and cheese.

10. Can I freeze leftover fried chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftover fried chicken. Let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake it in the oven for the best results.

Conclusion

This Southern fried chicken recipe is a timeless classic that delivers on flavor, texture, and comfort. With a simple marination, flavorful seasoning, and a crispy coating, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether for a family meal or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees you’ll be serving up a true Southern favorite that’s both delicious and satisfying.

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