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Crispy Southern Fried Chicken

Crispy Southern Fried Chicken

Classic Southern-style fried chicken with a golden, ultra-crispy crust and juicy, tender meat, marinated in buttermilk for maximum flavor.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken cut into pieces
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • vegetable oil for frying

Method
 

  1. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and cover completely with buttermilk. Refrigerate and let soak for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Remove chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture.
  5. Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
  6. Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve hot.

Notes

For extra crispiness, let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature.