Classic Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

cooking soul food

Southern Fried Chicken is a beloved comfort food, famous for its crispy crust and juicy, flavorful meat. A soul food staple, it’s perfect for family gatherings and special occasions. The secret? A well-seasoned flour coating, a buttermilk marinade for tenderness, and frying at the right temperature for that golden, crunchy crust. Follow this recipe for authentic homemade Southern Fried Chicken that’ll have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts – a mix is best)

2 cups buttermilk (for tenderizing the chicken)

1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for a hint of spice)

For the Flour Coating:

2 cups all-purpose flour (for the crispy crust)

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon black pepper (adds depth of flavor)

1 teaspoon garlic powder (for savory seasoning)

1 teaspoon onion powder (adds extra flavor)

1 teaspoon paprika (for color and a mild smoky taste)

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

½ teaspoon baking powder (creates extra crispiness)

For Frying:

2–3 cups vegetable oil (peanut, canola, or vegetable oil works best)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken for Extra Flavor

The key to juicy fried chicken starts with marination. In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with hot sauce (if using).

Place the chicken pieces into the mixture, making sure they are completely covered by the liquid.

The acidity of the buttermilk helps break down the proteins in the chicken, making it tender while infusing it with moisture and flavor. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but for the best results, let it marinate overnight.

2. Prepare the Seasoned Flour Mixture

While the chicken is marinating, prepare the seasoned flour coating. In a large shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and baking powder. The spices will add depth of flavor, while the baking powder helps create a light, crisp crust. Stir well to ensure even distribution.

3. Dredge the Chicken for a Crispy Crust

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. One by one, coat each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing the flour firmly onto the chicken to ensure an even coating. For an even crispier texture, dip the flour-coated chicken back into the buttermilk, then coat it in the flour a second time (this double-dipping method creates an extra crunchy crust). Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes to help the coating adhere before frying.

4. Heat the Oil to the Perfect Temperature

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, pour enough oil to reach about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C)—this is the ideal temperature to ensure a crispy exterior while fully cooking the chicken inside. Use a thermometer to check the temperature, as frying at too low a temperature will result in greasy chicken, while frying too hot will cause the outside to burn before the inside is cooked.

5. Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Carefully place a few pieces of chicken into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (this allows for even frying). Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure it browns evenly on all sides. The chicken is done when it reaches a deep golden-brown color and the internal temperature registers at least 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.

6. Drain and Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, use tongs to transfer it to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps retain its juices while keeping the exterior crispy.

Serving Suggestions:

Southern Fried Chicken is best enjoyed hot and crispy, alongside traditional soul food sides. Here are some great pairing options:

Classic Southern Sides:

Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey – A slow-cooked, smoky, and savory vegetable dish.

Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy, cheesy goodness that complements the crispy chicken.

Cornbread – A slightly sweet and buttery bread, perfect for soaking up flavors.

Mashed Potatoes with Gravy – A comforting side that pairs well with fried chicken.

Candied Yams – Sweet, caramelized yams that add a rich, dessert-like contrast.

Drinks to Pair:

Sweet Tea – The ultimate Southern drink with a refreshing sweetness.

Lemonade – A tangy and bright drink to balance out the rich flavors.

Desserts to Finish:

Peach Cobbler A warm, fruity dessert with a golden-brown crust.

Sweet Potato Pie A classic spiced dessert with a flaky crust.

Recipe Notes & Tips:

✅ Marinating Time: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.

✅ Oil Temperature Control: Always monitor the oil temperature to keep it steady at 350°F (175°C). If the oil gets too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is done.

✅ Crispier Chicken: For an even crunchier crust, let the flour-coated chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before frying. This allows the coating to stick better.

✅

Storing Leftovers: Keep any remaining fried chicken in a sealed container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to three days.

 To reheat, place it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to crisp it back up.

Steer clear of using the microwave, as it may cause the crust to become soft and lose its crispiness.

✅ Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

Enjoy Your Homemade Southern Fried Chicken!

This Southern Fried Chicken recipe is a true comfort food classic, offering a perfect balance of crispy, golden-brown skin and juicy, flavorful meat. Whether you’re making it for a special gathering, a casual family meal, or just to satisfy a craving, this dish is guaranteed to impress.