If you're looking for the best Southern fried chicken recipe, this crispy homemade version delivers perfectly seasoned chicken with a crunchy golden crust and juicy, tender meat. Made with a flavorful buttermilk marinade and a seasoned flour coating, this classic comfort food recipe tastes just like the fried chicken served at your favorite Southern restaurant.
Whether you're preparing Sunday dinner, a family gathering, or a backyard cookout, this easy fried chicken recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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Extra crispy coating
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Juicy and flavorful chicken
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Classic Southern comfort food
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Perfect for family dinners
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Great for holidays and gatherings
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Restaurant-quality results at home
Ingredients
Chicken
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3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
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2 cups buttermilk
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1 tablespoon hot sauce
Seasoned Flour
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon paprika
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2 teaspoons garlic powder
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2 teaspoons onion powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon seasoned salt
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Frying
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Vegetable oil
How to Make Southern Fried Chicken
Step 1
Place chicken in a large bowl.
Pour buttermilk and hot sauce over the chicken.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 2
In a large bowl combine:
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Flour
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Paprika
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Salt
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Pepper
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Seasoned salt
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Cayenne
Step 3
Remove chicken from buttermilk.
Dredge each piece in seasoned flour.
Press coating firmly onto the chicken.
Step 4
Heat oil to 350°F in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet.
Step 5
Fry chicken in batches for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6
Transfer chicken to a wire rack.
Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Fried Chicken
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Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
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Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature.
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Fry in batches.
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Let the coating rest on the chicken before frying.
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Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
What to Serve with Fried Chicken
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my fried chicken not crispy?
The oil temperature may be too low. Keep it near 350°F throughout frying.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but cooking times will be shorter.
Can I make fried chicken ahead of time?
Fried chicken is best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This crispy Southern fried chicken recipe delivers juicy chicken and a crunchy golden coating every time. It's a classic comfort food recipe that's perfect for family dinners, holidays, cookouts, and special occasions.