Southern Country Fried Chicken

Introduction

Southern Country Fried Chicken is a beloved dish renowned for its crispy golden crust, juicy interior, and irresistible flavor. It’s a recipe that consistently brings friends and family together around the table, offering both comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether for Sunday suppers, family reunions, or holiday gatherings, this classic dish stands out as a true crowd-pleaser—impressive yet delightfully simple to prepare.

What Makes Southern Country Fried Chicken Special

The hallmark of truly memorable Southern fried chicken lies in the perfect balance between a well-seasoned, crisp coating and moist, flavorful chicken inside. This recipe stays true to tradition, using seasoned flour for crunch and a blend of simple spices that evoke the cozy charm of the Southern kitchen. Paired with classic sides or served as the star of the table, Southern Country Fried Chicken is a testament to the art of comfort food.

Choosing and Prepping the Chicken

For optimal results, use bone-in chicken pieces such as thighs, drumsticks, and breasts. They not only provide excellent flavor but also stay tender during frying. Begin by patting your chicken dry with paper towels and letting it reach room temperature—a crucial step for even cooking and an ultra-crispy crust.

When cutting whole chickens into pieces, a sturdy and reliable KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears with Protective Sheath, Black speeds up prep and ensures precise cuts.

Making the Perfect Fried Coating

Traditional Southern fried chicken gets its signature crunch from a double-coating process. Dredge your chicken in a mix of seasoned flour, dip into tangy buttermilk, then return to the flour for an extra-thick crust. For even breading and less mess, consider using a spacious set of Bamboo Cutting Boards for Kitchen, Set of 3 to keep wet and dry ingredients separate during dredging.

Frying for a Crispy Golden Finish

The key to country fried chicken is frying at the correct temperature. Use a deep skillet, such as the heat-retaining Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet, Black, for steady, even heat distribution. Ideal frying oil temp is 350–365°F; tracking accuracy is easy with a reliable ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking.

When it’s time to drain, layer a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with a sheet from the Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet to absorb excess oil without turning the crust soggy.

Serving Ideas and Classic Sides

Pair your fried chicken with staples like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or homemade biscuits. For easy and crisp salads, the Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl, Khaki Green stashes dressings and toppings, making assembly hassle-free. For outdoor gatherings or picnics, a Pureegg Plastic Table Cloth Disposable 10 Pack, White keeps your spread tidy and clean.

Nutritional Information and Portions

This recipe serves 4–6 and provides a hearty meal, with each serving containing roughly 400–550 calories depending on the size and cut of chicken. It’s a satisfying, occasional indulgence perfect for celebration and comfort.

Southern Country Fried Chicken Summary

Southern Country Fried Chicken is a beloved dish whose classic flavor and sensational texture make it the highlight of any meal. With its crispy coating, juicy interior, and simple, fail-safe preparation, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again.

Instructions

1. Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season all over with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
2. In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken pieces. Cover and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (or overnight for deeper tenderness).
3. In another bowl, combine flour, remaining salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne (if using), garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour until well coated; dip back into the buttermilk, then dredge again in flour for a thick, crunchy crust.
5. Heat ½–1 inch vegetable oil in your Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet, Black to 350–365°F. Check temperature using the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking.
6. Place chicken pieces skin side down and fry in batches, about 8–12 minutes per side for larger pieces, until deep golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
7. Transfer cooked chicken to a rack set over a baking sheet lined with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet to drain excess oil.
8. Serve hot, alongside your favorite classic side dishes.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes (plus marinating time)