Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

Written by: Editor In Chief
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crispy southern fried chicken

Why the Southern Fried Chicken Is a Great Chicken Dish

When you bite into a piece of Southern fried chicken, it’s hard not to appreciate its crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat.

This dish stands out for its perfect balance of flavors and textures that just captivates your taste buds. The crunch of the golden crust gives way to succulent chicken, creating a satisfying contrast.

Plus, it’s so versatile! You can enjoy it at family gatherings, picnics, or even cozy dinners at home. Each bite evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia, making it not just a meal, but an experience.

That’s why Southern fried chicken is a beloved classic!

Ingredients of Southern Fried Chicken

When it comes to Southern fried chicken, the ingredients are just as important as the cooking technique. You want to make sure you’ve got everything you need before you plunge into the frying frenzy. Trust me, nothing throws off your groove like realizing you’re out of eggs halfway through the process.

So, let’s gather our troops—err, I mean ingredients—so we can whip up this delicious dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

Here’s what you’ll need to create that crispy, mouthwatering Southern fried chicken:

  • 2 1/2 – 3 lbs frying chickens
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 2 cups self-rising flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 eggs, beaten with 2 tablespoons water

Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a second. First off, if you can get your hands on some good quality frying chickens, you’re already ahead of the game. The size matters because you want pieces that are big enough to fry up crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

And don’t skimp on the oil; it’s what makes that glorious, golden crust. As for the self-rising flour, it’s a lifesaver; it not only coats the chicken beautifully but helps it puff up during frying.

Oh, and those seasonings? They’re the secret weapon to elevating the flavor from “meh” to “wow.” So, gather your ingredients, mentally prepare yourself for deliciousness, and let’s get ready to fry some chicken.

How to Make Southern Fried Chicken

crispy southern fried chicken

Alright, folks, let’s roll up our sleeves and immerse ourselves in the wonderful world of making crispy Southern fried chicken. We’re talking about 2 1/2 to 3 pounds of frying chickens here, so grab your favorite cutting board and a good knife.

First things first, rinse those chickens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential—nobody wants soggy chicken, right? Once they’re nice and dry, just set them aside for a moment while we get our frying station ready.

Now, you’ll need a large deep-fry pot or an electric skillet—something that can hold enough oil without making a mess. Fill it with vegetable oil, but don’t go overboard; you only want to fill it halfway to avoid any potential eruptions. Heat that oil up to a cozy 325°F to 350°F.

Meanwhile, let’s prepare the coating. In a big resealable bag, combine 2 cups of self-rising flour with 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of ground sage, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Give it a good shake! This is where the magic happens.

Now, it’s time for some chicken magic. Take each piece of chicken and give it a nice shake in that flour mixture—trust me, you want a good coating here. After that, dip it in a mixture of 2 beaten eggs and 2 tablespoons of water; this helps the flour stick better.

Then, back into the flour mixture it goes for a second coat. Yes, I know it sounds like a bit of a hassle, but believe me, it’s worth it for that crispy goodness. Once you have a few pieces coated, carefully lower them into the hot oil, skin side down, and fry them for about 10 to 14 minutes.

After that, flip them over, cover the pot, and let them fry for another 10 minutes. Uncover it for the last few minutes to get that golden brown crust just right. When the chicken is done, let it drain on paper towels for a bit.

Just seven minutes of patience, and you’ll have the most delicious Southern fried chicken ready to devour. Bon appétit!

Southern Fried Chicken Substitutions & Variations

After you’ve mastered the classic recipe, you might want to explore some substitutions and variations to put your own spin on Southern fried chicken.

For a gluten-free option, I’ve swapped self-rising flour for a gluten-free blend. You can also spice things up by adding cayenne pepper or using buttermilk instead of the egg wash for extra flavor.

If you love herbs, try mixing in dried thyme or rosemary. For a twist, consider marinating the chicken in hot sauce or pickle juice beforehand.

These small changes can make a big difference, letting you customize your fried chicken to your taste!

What to Serve with Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken deserves a delightful accompaniment to truly shine on your dinner table.

I love pairing it with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, which adds a rejuvenating crunch, or buttery corn on the cob for a sweet touch.

Mashed potatoes with rich gravy are also a must-have for soaking up those savory flavors.

For something lighter, you can’t go wrong with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.

And don’t forget biscuits or cornbread to round out the meal; they’re perfect for sopping up any leftover juices.

Trust me, these sides elevate the whole experience!

Additional Tips & Notes

When serving your delicious Southern fried chicken with those perfect side dishes, a few extra tips can take your meal to the next level.

First, let the chicken rest for about seven minutes after frying; it helps retain moisture. If you want extra crispiness, you can double-dip the chicken in the flour mixture.

For an added flavor punch, try marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight. Keep oil temperature consistent while frying; too hot can burn the coating, while too cool can make it greasy.

Finally, serve it with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful kick! Enjoy your feast!