Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken is a beloved classic, known for its flavorful, crispy coating and juicy interior. This recipe brings together tender chicken thighs and drumsticks, marinated in buttermilk for extra tenderness, and seasoned with a delightful blend of spices for that iconic Southern taste. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or impressing guests, Southern Fried Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser when served with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Preparation:

Step 1:
Start by preparing the chicken. Wash the chicken thighs and drumsticks thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Once dry, place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour 2 cups of buttermilk over them. Ensure each piece is fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight, allowing the buttermilk to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the seasoned flour mixture. In a large shallow dish, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 3:
After the marinating time is complete, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to take the chill off before frying.

Step 4:
Meanwhile, heat a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to submerge the chicken halfway (about 1 inch deep). Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). To ensure the oil is hot enough, you can use a kitchen thermometer or drop a small amount of the flour mixture into the oil—if it sizzles, the oil is ready.

Step 5:
Working in batches, take each piece of chicken and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken, ensuring an even and thick coating. If you prefer extra crispy chicken, you can double dip the pieces: first dredge them in flour, then dip them back into the buttermilk, and coat again with flour.

Step 6:
Carefully place the dredged chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry the chicken for approximately 12-15 minutes on each side, or until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.

Step 7:
Once fried, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step is essential for achieving a non-greasy texture.

COOKING Note:

Make sure the oil remains at a consistent temperature of 350°F throughout the cooking process. Fluctuations in temperature can affect the crispiness of the chicken. If the oil gets too hot, the outside of the chicken will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy.

Serving Suggestions:

Southern Fried Chicken pairs beautifully with a range of classic Southern sides. Here are a few recommendations:

• Mashed Potatoes with Gravy: Creamy mashed potatoes topped with rich, savory gravy create the ultimate comfort meal.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that balances out the richness of the fried chicken.
• Buttermilk Biscuits: Soft, buttery biscuits that can soak up the flavorful juices from the chicken.
• Cornbread: A sweet and savory option that complements the spices in the chicken.
• Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy, cheesy side dish that’s always a hit with fried chicken.

Tips:

• For Extra Crispiness: For an ultra-crispy crust, consider double-dipping the chicken. After the first coat of flour, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk and dredge it again in the flour mixture. This extra step ensures a thicker, crunchier coating.
• Oil Temperature: Keeping the oil at a steady 350°F is crucial to avoid soggy chicken. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a pinch of flour into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready for frying.
• Rest Before Frying: After dredging the chicken, let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flour to adhere better. This will result in a more uniform and crisp coating.
• Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil’s heat, leading to greasy chicken.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2 hours
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Sodium: 850mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
   Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. However, the cooking time will be reduced, as boneless chicken cooks faster. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (75°C).
2. How do I store leftover fried chicken?
   Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to maintain crispiness.
3. Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?
   Yes, if you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the chicken. Preheat the oven to 400°F, place the coated chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, and bake for 40-45 minutes until crispy and fully cooked.
4. Can I add other seasonings to the flour mixture?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cumin, dried herbs, or smoked paprika to personalize the flavor.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Chicken is a comfort food classic that brings warmth and joy to any table. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the meat, while the perfectly seasoned flour creates an irresistible, crunchy crust. Whether served with traditional sides or enjoyed on its own, this dish embodies the heart and soul of Southern cuisine. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the satisfaction of making this iconic dish at home!

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