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Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

Enjoy the crispy, golden exterior and juicy, tender meat of this classic Southern Fried Chicken, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cast-Iron Skillet
  • Wire Rack
  • Zipper-Lock Freezer Bag

Ingredients

Spices

  • 2 tablespoons Paprika
  • 2 tablespoons Black Pepper Freshly ground
  • 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
  • 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper

Chicken

  • 1 cup Buttermilk
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1 whole Chicken (about 4 pounds) Cut into 10 pieces or use 3 1/2 pounds bone-in, skin-on parts

Coating

  • 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 4 cups Vegetable Shortening or Peanut Oil For frying

Instructions

  • 1. Combine the paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and cayenne in a small bowl and mix thoroughly with a fork.
  • 2. Whisk the buttermilk, egg, 1 tablespoon salt, and 2 tablespoons of the spice mixture in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Transfer to a gallon-sized zipper-lock freezer bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, flipping occasionally.
  • 3. Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, 2 teaspoons salt, and remaining spice mixture in a large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of the marinade from the bag and work it into the flour. Coat the chicken pieces in the flour mixture.
  • 4. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Heat the shortening or oil to 425°F in a cast-iron skillet or large wok.
  • 5. Transfer the coated chicken to a fine-mesh strainer to remove excess flour. Fry the chicken until golden brown, about 6 minutes per side.
  • 6. Transfer the chicken to a wire rack and place in the oven until cooked through, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  • 7. For extra crunch, refrigerate the cooked chicken for at least 1 hour, then reheat the oil to 400°F and fry again for about 5 minutes.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F until crispy.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 25g