Nothing beats the crispy, golden crunch of perfectly fried chicken paired with its juicy, tender inside. This Southern Fried Chicken recipe delivers everything you love about this classic comfort food: a flavor-packed seasoning blend, a crispy coating, and a mouthwatering taste that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you're making it for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or just to satisfy a craving, this homemade fried chicken will be a showstopper.
Why This Recipe Works
- Flavorful Buttermilk Brine: The chicken soaks in a seasoned milk mixture, ensuring it stays juicy and tender.
- Perfectly Seasoned Breading: A balanced blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne gives every bite a kick of Southern-style flavor.
- Golden, Crispy Coating: Achieved by double-dredging and frying at the perfect temperature for maximum crunch.
Ingredients & Their Role
For the Buttermilk Brine:
- 1.5 cups whole milk – Helps tenderize the chicken and enhances moisture.
- 2 large eggs, beaten – Binds the seasonings to the chicken for even flavor.
- 2 tablespoons salt – Enhances the natural taste of the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper – Adds a deep, earthy warmth.
- 1 tablespoon paprika – Brings mild smokiness and color to the crust.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – Gives a robust, savory note.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds a spicy kick for heat lovers.
For the Breading:
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour – Creates the crispy, crunchy coating.
- 1 tablespoon salt – Seasons the breading for a well-balanced taste.
For Frying:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces – Tender, juicy bites perfect for frying.
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil – Ideal for frying, as it maintains a high smoking point.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Buttermilk Brine
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for maximum tenderness and flavor.
2. Prepare the Breading Station
In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Set up a breading station with the flour mixture in one bowl and the buttermilk brine in another.
3. Bread the Chicken
Remove chicken from the brine and let excess liquid drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring a full, even coat.
👉 Pro Tip: For an extra crispy crust, double-dredge by dipping the coated chicken back into the buttermilk brine and re-coating with flour.
4. Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken to the hot oil in small batches to prevent overcrowding. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Drain and Serve
Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Season with additional salt to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this crispy Southern Fried Chicken with:
- Classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
- Dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
- A fresh salad for a lighter balance.
Pro Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken
✔️ Marinate Longer for Better Flavor: Letting the chicken soak for at least a few hours enhances tenderness and taste.
✔️ Keep the Oil Temperature Steady: Use a thermometer to maintain 350°F (175°C) for even frying.
✔️ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
✔️ Reheat Like a Pro: Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to keep the coating crispy.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Fried Chicken recipe is easy, foolproof, and packed with flavor. The combination of a well-seasoned brine, a perfectly crispy crust, and juicy chicken makes it a must-try for any fried chicken lover. Whether you're making fried chicken tenders, wings, or drumsticks, this method ensures crispy, flavorful perfection every time.
Try this recipe today and enjoy homemade Southern Fried Chicken that rivals any restaurant!