Fried Chicken Recipe – Make Your Tastebuds Sing!
Howdy y’all! Are you ready to learn how to make some finger-licking good southern fried chicken? You’re in luck because I am a southern chef and today I’ll be sharing with you my recipe for the perfect southern-style “fried” chicken.
Now, let me get one thing straight – this recipe doesn’t actually involve frying the chicken. Instead, we will coat our boneless skinless chicken breasts (or whole chicken pieces) in a crispy batter made with flour, spices and buttermilk (or egg) and then pan-fry them until golden brown. The result? Crispy, juicy fried chicken that’s as good as any roadside diner or backyard barbecue version. Trust me, once you make this recipe, you’ll never go back to oven-baked or store-bought versions.
So why go through all the trouble of making your own Southern Fried Chicken when you can just swing by your local fast food joint? Simple – there’s no substitute for homemade comfort food. It’s soul-food for a reason! My recipe is simple enough that anyone can make it regardless of their skill level in the kitchen. Plus, it lets you customize the amount of spice and seasoning that matches your individual tastes.
So, come along and let me show you how to make this traditional Southern dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, serving family and friends at a gathering or even trying to impress a date with your southern charm, this recipe will have everyone begging for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Looking for a delicious meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling full and content? Look no further than this Southern-style “fried” chicken recipe. What makes this dish so special, you ask? Let me tell you a few reasons.
First and foremost, the combination of juicy, tender boneless skinless chicken breasts and a crispy coating made from flour and spices is simply unbeatable. The contrast of textures and flavors will have your taste buds dancing with delight. And don’t let the term “fried” fool you – this recipe is actually pan-fried in a healthier way than traditional deep-fried chicken.
Moreover, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion. You can use bone-in chicken pieces for a more traditional Southern fried taste or swap in chicken tenders for smaller portions. Want to make it spicier? Add some extra heat with cayenne pepper or chili powder. Feeling creative? Try adding garlic powder or experimenting with different batters for a unique twist on the classic dish.
But don’t just take my word for it – this recipe has been hailed as one of the best Southern-style fried chicken recipes around. It’s simple enough to make at home, yet reminiscent of dishes served up in even the most famous soul food restaurants like Cracker Barrel and KFC.
So whether you’re looking for a quick, easy weeknight meal or want to impress guests at your next dinner party with a delicious homemade star dish, this Southern-style “fried” chicken recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredient List
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the essential ingredients that you will need to make the best Southern Fried Chicken. For this recipe, you will need boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken pieces with bones and skin on, depending on your preference. Additionally, you will require flour, garlic powder, and some spices to make it more flavorful. The recipe can be made even better if you use a classic Southern brine to soak the chicken for several hours before cooking.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken pieces (with bones and skin)
- Flour
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- Buttermilk (optional)
- Your favorite frying oil (Lard, Peanut, or Vegetable oil)
Make sure that your spices are not expired as it can affect your chicken’s flavor. You can also adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you want an extra spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper. If you prefer less heat, reduce it or omit altogether. With these ingredients on hand, let’s move to the how-to section and start making some crispy juicy fried chicken!
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have your ingredients ready let’s dive into the recipe how-to. Here’s a simple, yet delicious Southern “fried” chicken recipe that will satisfy your cravings for crispy and juicy chicken.
Prep time
Before getting into the recipe, there are few things you need to do to prepare. First, brine your chicken. Brining your chicken will make it extra tender and juicy. Second, coat each piece of chicken with the seasoned flour mixture until fully covered.
Cooking time
Now that the prep work is done, it’s time to cook the chicken. You can either use a deep fryer or a large pot for pan-frying. Heat the lard (or vegetable oil) in a skillet over medium-high heat until no longer solid. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature of each piece has reached 165°F.
Extra Crispy Option
If you’re looking for even more crispiness, try using an air fryer or oven instead of pan-frying. To use an air fryer: preheat it to 400°F and cook the chicken for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through. For oven use: preheat it to 425°F and bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes.
Serving
Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Pair this delicious meal with traditional southern sides like mashed potatoes or mac and cheese.
Now that you’ve learned how to make southern fried chicken that is crispy, juicy, and full of flavor, it’s time to get cooking!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a twist to your traditional Southern fried chicken recipe, here are some substitutions and variations you can try.
1. Bone-in chicken pieces: Instead of using boneless skinless chicken breasts or whole chicken cut into pieces, you can use bone-in chicken pieces like drumsticks, thighs or wings. Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken may require longer cooking time.
2. Spicy: If you like your food with a bit of a kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture. You can also create a spicy buttermilk brine to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
3. Breaded: To create an extra crispy coating for your fried chicken, try adding some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to the flour mixture. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
4. Air fryer: For a healthier alternative, you can use an air fryer instead of pan-frying the chicken in lard or oil. The result is still crispy and juicy without all the added calories.
5. Oven-baked: If you don’t want the hassle of pan-frying, you can bake your Southern fried chicken in the oven instead. Just make sure to preheat the oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
6. Gravy: To really take your Southern fried chicken to the next level, serve it with some homemade gravy made from the pan drippings. Just add some flour and milk to create a rich and flavorful gravy that pairs perfectly with crispy juicy fried chicken.
No matter which variation or substitution you choose, remember to still follow the basic fundamentals of this classic Southern dish – it should always be crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of soul food flavor!
Serving and Pairing
“Southern fried chicken is a star dish that deserves to be served with equally impressive sides. The crispy and juicy chicken pieces coated in flour makes for a traditional Southern-style feast. For sides, think soul food and southern-inspired favorites like fluffy biscuits, creamy mashed potatoes, collard greens cooked with bacon or ham hocks, buttery cornbread, mac and cheese, coleslaw, pickled vegetables or sweet potato fries seasoned with garlic powder.
To complete your southern-style meal, try pairing it with a glass of iced sweet tea or refreshing lemonade. If you are looking to take it up a notch, add a spicy element by serving hot sauce or red pepper flakes on the side to sprinkle over the chicken.
For those looking for something healthier but still craving the taste of fried chicken, air fryer or oven-baked options could be substituted. Sides like roasted vegetables or a light salad can balance out your dinner plate.
Whether you’re having a laid-back weeknight dinner or serving guests at a summertime gathering, this delicious southern fried chicken recipe will leave everyone feeling happy and full.”
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Are you looking for a make-ahead dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Look no further than this Southern fried chicken recipe! You can prepare any leftovers in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer to enjoy later.
To make ahead, refrigerate the cooked chicken pieces in an airtight container for up to three days. They will still be moist and flavorful when reheated. To reheat, place the pieces on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can also use an air fryer to reheat the chicken pieces. This method allows you to keep the skin crispy and juicy, just like when it was freshly prepared. Simply reheat the pieces in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 375 degrees.
If you have a large batch of chicken leftover, you can freeze them for up to three months. Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing it in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. When you are ready to eat it, defrost overnight in the fridge and then follow one of the previous reheating methods.
{Transition: But what if you don’t have leftover fried chicken and want to heat up some chicken from scratch that has been stored in refrigerator or freezer?}
Storing and reheating raw chicken is also essential when making big batches of this recipe. Be sure to store your raw chicken separately from other foods, especially cooked ones, and always wash your hands thoroughly after handling it.
To prevent any foodborne illness, thaw frozen raw chicken slowly in the refrigerator overnight or using cold water under running tap water. Do not defrost at room temperature.
When you’re ready to cook your refrigerated or thawed raw chicken pieces, place them on a lined baking sheet and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking as indicated in the recipe.
{Tip: To get the best results, reheat your fried chicken only once and avoid using a microwave, which can make the chicken lose its crispy coating}
With these simple tips on storing and reheating, you can enjoy Southern-fried chicken anytime!
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you know how to whip up the perfect Southern-style “fried” chicken, it’s time to bring it to the next level with a few tips and tricks to ensure that it’s crispy, juicy and packed with flavor.
1. A brine can work magic on your chicken
If you have time and want to add an extra kick of flavor, consider using a brine. This simple mixture of water, salt, sugar and spices will ensure that your chicken is tender and juicy before even hitting the pan. Be sure to rinse off the brine before breading and frying.
2. Use buttermilk for a tangy twist
While many traditional recipes call for egg wash, using buttermilk instead will add a subtle tanginess to your chicken. Simply soak your chicken pieces in buttermilk before breading and frying. Not only will this enhance the flavor, but it will also give your chicken a perfectly crispy exterior.
3. Keep your oil hot and invest in an oil thermometer
Frying requires high heat, so be sure to keep your oil at a consistent temperature of 350-375°F. Investing in an oil thermometer can help you achieve this precision heat control. This will ensure that your chicken fries evenly and doesn’t absorb too much oil, resulting in a greasy end product.
4. Opt for cast iron or lard for extra crispiness
For the ultimate crunch, try frying your chicken in cast iron or lard (or even a combination of both). These fats can handle high heat and will result in an extra crispy exterior that truly stands out.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious Southern-style “fried” chicken that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite.
FAQ
Now that we’ve gone through the entire recipe, you may have a few lingering questions about Southern “fried” Chicken. Don’t fret – we’re here to answer all of your queries and concerns! Let’s dive right into the FAQ section and clear up any uncertainties you may have.
What is the difference between fried chicken and Southern fried chicken?
One of the most beloved dishes in Southern-style cuisine is fried chicken, which entails coating chicken pieces with seasoned flour or batter and frying them until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The seasoned breading not only creates a crunchy exterior but also keeps the meat succulent and flavorful.
What is the secret to making great fried chicken?
When preparing chicken, I recommend using a whole chicken that is cut into pieces to accommodate both dark and white meat preferences. It’s important to properly cut the chicken to ensure even cooking. Additionally, a flavorful marinade is essential for producing a delicious result. Take your time and allow the chicken to marinate for a while to fully absorb the flavors. When seasoning the chicken, be generous to bring out the best flavors. It’s crucial to use the right cooking oil and temperature to achieve an ideal texture and flavor. Lastly, consider using a different method to drain the chicken rather than paper towels to help maintain its crispy texture.
Is it better to use egg or milk for fried chicken?
When it comes to coating chicken with flour, there are different techniques to use. One common method is to dip the chicken in beaten egg, while others suggest milk or buttermilk. Choosing between these two options affects the type of crust you’ll end up with. Egg produces a thicker, more substantial crust due to its higher protein content. Milk, on the other hand, is thinner and contains more water, which means it may not stick to the chicken as well.
What is the secret to keeping fried chicken crispy?
When it comes to maintaining the crispiness of fried food, there’s a simple solution: use a cooling rack atop a baking sheet. This combination helps in keeping the fried items from becoming soggy by allowing excess oils to drain away. In case you’re preparing several batches of fried food, you can place the rack in a low-temperature oven to ensure the food remains warm while you continue frying.
Bottom Line
With this recipe for Southern “fried” chicken, you don’t need to travel to the south or wait in long lines at Cracker Barrel to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is for you. Follow these simple steps and use high-quality ingredients, like boneless skinless chicken breasts and flour, to make the best Southern fried chicken from scratch.
With this recipe in your repertoire, you can satisfy your Southern food cravings any time you want. Impress your friends and family with this delicious classic southern dish and relish its traditional flavors. You’ll love the simplicity of the recipe and the satisfaction of making it from scratch.
So go on, give it a try! Make some crispy, juicy, soul food-inspired chicken at home tonight. And if you’re feeling especially adventurous, try adding some extra spice or experimenting with different coatings. With this basic recipe as your foundation, there’s no limit to what you can create.
Remember: The secret is in using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to brine and marinate your chicken before cooking it. With these tips and tricks under your belt, you’re well on your way to becoming a Southern fried chicken master.
In conclusion, this recipe will help you make the best southern fried chicken from the comfort of your own kitchen. Try it out today and experience the crispy, juicy goodness that only comes from a classic southern dish!
Southern “fried” Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Mrs. Dash seasoning mix
- 1 cup flour
Instructions
- Rince chicken in cold water. Sprinkle each piece with Mrs. Dash.
- Place flour in a dish or bag, dip or shake to coat.
- Place chicken in a non-stick skillet sprayed with vegetable oil spray.
- Place over medium heat. Add 2-3 Tbsp water and cover. Cook until brown on 1 side. Turn and cook until browned on other side. Add small amount of water from time to time if needed.