If you’ve ever struggled with getting that perfect crispy crust on your chicken, this Best Southern Fried Chicken recipe is your answer. After 15 years in the kitchen perfecting my craft, I’ve honed in on the techniques that elevate this dish to restaurant quality. This is the perfect comfort food that will have your family asking for seconds, guaranteed. You may also find Chicken And Bacon Fried Rice useful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-pleasing: This chicken is a guaranteed hit at any gathering, making it the perfect party dish.
- Restaurant-quality at home: Achieve that crispy, golden crust easily with the right techniques.
- Kid-approved: Even the pickiest eaters will love this delicious chicken.
- Ready in 30 minutes: You can enjoy homemade fried chicken in less time than delivery.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe for Best Southern Fried Chicken uses a blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a deeply satisfying meal. Here are the essentials: You may also find Alice Springs Chicken useful.
- Boneless (skinless) chicken breasts — Cut in half for even cooking; it’s a wise choice for easy frying.
- All-purpose flour — This creates the crispy coating; I use King Arthur Flour for the best results.
- Garlic powder — This adds depth to the flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
- Paprika — Provides a hint of smokiness and beautiful color.
- Salt and black pepper — Essential for seasoning, don’t skip these crucial flavor enhancers.
See the recipe card below for complete ingredients and exact measurements. You may also find Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders useful.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large cast iron skillet — This is perfect for achieving that golden color and crispy texture.
- Shallow bowl — Ideal for preparing the egg mixture.
- Zip-top bag — Use this for the seasoned flour; it makes coating the chicken evenly a breeze.
How to Make Best Southern Fried Chicken
This delicious recipe for Best Southern Fried Chicken comes together in just a few simple steps. You may also find Baked Chicken With Parmesan And Mayo useful.
- Prepare the seasoning: In a large zip-top bag, combine the flour, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake well to evenly mix the seasoning.
- Coat the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bag and shake until fully coated in the seasoned flour.
- Make the egg mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and soy sauce until smooth.
- Dip and coat: Remove the chicken from the flour mixture, dip each piece into the egg mixture, then return it to the zip-top bag for a second coating.
- Heat the oil: In a deep skillet, heat several inches of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering (approximately 350°F or 175°C).
- Fry the chicken: Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, working in batches if needed. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let rest briefly, then serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure crispy chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer: This guarantees your chicken is cooked through without compromising juiciness.
- Let it rest before serving: Resting allows juices to redistribute, making for a more tender bite.
Variations to Try
Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe for your taste. Here are some variations to consider:
- Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb-infused flour: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor.
- Buttermilk alternative: For a richer taste, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating.
What to Serve With Best Southern Fried Chicken
This Best Southern Fried Chicken pairs beautifully with classic side dishes. Here are my favorite pairings:
- Coleslaw — The crunch and acidity complement the chicken perfectly.
- Mashed potatoes — Creamy potatoes enhance the crispy texture of the fried chicken.
- Biscuits — A fluffy biscuit is great for soaking up any leftover gravy.
- Iced tea — A refreshing drink to balance the savory flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftover Best Southern Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: The oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes keeps the chicken’s crispy texture intact best. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can make the crust soggy.
Best Southern Fried Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a large zip-top bag, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and shake to mix the seasoning.
- Add chicken pieces to the bag and shake until fully coated in the seasoned flour.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and soy sauce until smooth.
- Remove chicken from the flour mixture, dip each piece into the egg mixture, then return to the zip-top bag for a second coating.
- Heat several inches of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (approximately 350°F or 175°C).
- Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary. Fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let rest briefly, then serve hot.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Best Southern Fried Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can fry the chicken and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What can I substitute for the all-purpose flour?
You can use cornstarch for a gluten-free option or almond flour for a low-carb alternative, though the texture may differ slightly.
How do I know when Best Southern Fried Chicken is done?
The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I freeze Best Southern Fried Chicken?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken wrapped tightly to maintain quality, and reheat directly from frozen.
Why is my Best Southern Fried Chicken greasy?
This may happen if the oil isn’t hot enough; ensure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) before frying.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe; just be cautious to fry in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature.
Final Thoughts
Don’t miss out on the chance to try this Best Southern Fried Chicken recipe! It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Give it a try and experience the joy of homemade fried chicken.
Conclusion
For more delicious recipes like this, check out The Best Southern Fried Chicken – The Country Cook or explore The Best Buttermilk-Brined Southern Fried Chicken – Serious Eats for other mouthwatering variations!
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