Best Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

This Southern fried chicken recipe is golden, juicy, and irresistibly crispy, the kind of comfort food that never goes out of style.

With every bite, you get that satisfying crunch followed by tender, flavorful meat that’s been marinated just right.

What makes this the best fried chicken recipe? It starts with a soak in tangy buttermilk, which tenderizes the meat and adds a rich, Southern flavor.

Then it’s dredged in seasoned flour and fried until perfectly crisp. The result? Crispy fried chicken that’s crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, just the way homemade fried chicken should be.

Whether you’re serving it at Sunday dinner, a summer picnic, or a weekend get-together, this buttermilk fried chicken always steals the show. It’s timeless, crave-worthy, and easy to make at home.

Equipment for Preparing Southern Fried Chicken

• Large Bowl or Gallon Freezer Bag: For brining the chicken.
• Large Shallow Dish or Sturdy Paper Bag: For the seasoned flour dredge.
• Wire Rack and Baking Sheet: For resting dredged chicken and draining fried chicken.
• Large, Heavy-Bottomed Pot, Dutch Oven, or Deep Fryer: For frying the chicken. A cast-iron skillet is traditional for skillet-fried chicken.
• Deep-Fry Thermometer: Absolute must-have for accurate oil temperature.
• Tongs: For safely handling chicken in hot oil.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
• Whisk: For combining dry ingredients.
• Paper Towels: For patting chicken dry.

Quick Tips When Making This Recipe

• Marinate overnight for tender, flavorful meat.
• Use a mix of flour and cornstarch for that ultra-crispy coating.
• Don’t skip resting the dredged chicken it helps the coating cling better.
• Maintain oil temperature between 325–350°F.
• Let fried chicken rest on a wire rack, not paper towels, for optimal crispiness.

The Health Benefits of Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

• High in Protein: Essential for muscle repair and energy.
• Iron-Rich: Especially if using dark meat important for red blood cell production.
• Provides B Vitamins: Helps convert food to energy and supports cell health.
• Emotional Comfort: Not all benefits are nutritional; it’s comfort food for the soul.
• Customizable: You can air fry or use healthier oils for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Southern fried chicken is more than just food; it’s nostalgia, flavor, and joy all wrapped up in a golden crust.

Whether you're whipping it up for Sunday supper, a summer BBQ, or simply because you’re craving something soul-satisfying, this classic recipe delivers every single time.

With the right ingredients, a bit of patience, and a lot of love, your kitchen can become the heart of a Southern feast. So go ahead, heat up that skillet, pour yourself some sweet tea, and bring a piece of the South to your table.

This is one dish worth savoring, one crunchy bite at a time.

✅ Quick Tips: Read through the full recipe before diving in; it’s the best way to get a feel for the flow, prep time, and tools you’ll need. Think of it like scanning a map before a road trip: you’ll cook more confidently and avoid any surprises halfway through.

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