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Close-up of golden-brown fried chicken on wood.

Southern Fried Chicken

Crispy, golden, and juicy Southern Fried Chicken, a classic comfort food. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavor and texture, making it a family favorite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 24 minutes
Total Time 44 minutes
Servings: 6 pieces
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 6 pieces chicken thighs, drumsticks, or breasts
Marinade
  • 2 cups buttermilk
Coating
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Frying
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Method
 

  1. Marinate: Soak chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Prepare Coating: Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Coat each piece evenly in the seasoned flour.
  4. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry: Fry chicken in batches for 10–12 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C).
  6. Drain and Serve: Let chicken rest on a wire rack.

Notes

For extra crispy chicken, double dip the chicken in the flour mixture before frying.