good fried chicken recipe
The Best good fried chicken recipe
I’ve been making this fried chicken recipe for years, and it’s the one my family always asks for. There’s something about the crispy, golden crust and the juicy meat inside that just hits the spot every time. My kids will actually sit down and eat their veggies if this is on the table—no exaggeration. It’s not just a weekend treat either; we make it for weeknight dinners, picnics, and even potlucks because it’s that versatile. The best part? It’s not as unhealthy as you might think. Using the right oil and a light hand with the breading keeps it from being greasy, and baking it instead of deep-frying is an option if you’re watching your fat intake.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is without sacrificing flavor. The seasoning blend is basic but effective—paprika, garlic powder, salt, and a little cayenne for a subtle kick. You can adjust the heat to your preference, but even my youngest, who hates spicy food, doesn’t complain. The buttermilk marinade is the real secret, though. It keeps the chicken tender and adds a tangy depth that you just can’t get from plain milk. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover buttermilk if you’ve got some sitting in the fridge.
This fried chicken is one of those dishes that feels special but is easy enough to make any day of the week. It’s perfect for when you want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. And because it reheats well, you can make a big batch and enjoy it for days. I’ve even packed it in lunchboxes for school or work, and it’s always a hit. If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that won’t let you down, this is the one.
Crispy Southern Fried Chicken
This classic fried chicken recipe delivers juicy meat with a perfectly crispy, golden-brown crust. Marinated in buttermilk for tenderness and seasoned with a blend of spices, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make at home.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2-3 cups)
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
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2 In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
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3 Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Shake off any excess and place on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set the coating.
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4 Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat (350°F/175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
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5 Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, skin-side down. Do not overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed). Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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6 Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Shallow dish or pie plate
- Deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Wire rack
- Meat thermometer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Works
A good fried chicken recipe is always worth having in your back pocket because it’s simple, satisfying, and works for just about any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a big family gathering, crispy, juicy chicken brings people together without fuss. I’ve found that when you nail the seasoning and the fry, it’s a dish everyone—kids and adults alike—will keep coming back for.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Southern Fried Chicken
1. What is the secret to making crispy fried chicken?
The secret lies in a few key steps: using buttermilk for a tenderizing marinade, double-dipping the chicken in flour for extra crunch, and frying at the right temperature (350–375°F or 175–190°C). Adding cornstarch or baking powder to the flour mix can also enhance crispiness. Finally, let the chicken rest after frying to keep it crunchy.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken before frying?
For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken in buttermilk (or a seasoned brine) for at least 4 hours, but overnight (8–12 hours) is ideal. The acid in the buttermilk breaks down proteins, making the meat juicier and more flavorful. Don’t skip this step—it makes a huge difference!
3. Can I bake fried chicken instead of frying it?
Yes! For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway. To mimic the crispiness of frying, use a wire rack on a baking sheet to allow air circulation, and spray or brush the chicken with oil before baking. While not identical to deep-frying, it’s a great alternative.
4. Why does my fried chicken turn out greasy or soggy?
Greasy or soggy chicken usually happens for two reasons: incorrect oil temperature or overcrowding the pan. If the oil isn’t hot enough (below 350°F/175°C), the chicken absorbs too much oil. If the pan is overcrowded, the temperature drops, leading to soggy crusts. Use a thermometer to monitor oil temp and fry in batches for even cooking.
5. What’s the best oil for frying chicken?
The best oils for frying chicken are those with a high smoke point and neutral flavor, such as: – Peanut oil (best for classic flavor and crispiness) – Vegetable or canola oil (affordable and widely available) – Sunflower or safflower oil (good alternatives) Avoid olive oil or butter—they have low smoke points and can burn. Always use fresh oil for the best results.
