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southern fried chicken recipe

Traditional Southern Fried Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Juicy, and Perfectly Seasoned


  • Author: Lucille
  • Total Time: 9 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6-8 1x

Description

This authentic Southern Fried Chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into a golden, crispy delicacy. Tender on the inside and perfectly crisp on the outside, this dish is a staple of Southern comfort food.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Chicken: 4-5 pounds (whole or selected pieces)
  • Brine Mixture:
    • 8 cups cold water
    • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
    • 4 tablespoons sugar
  • Coating Ingredients:
    • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 cup cornstarch
    • 1.5 cups milk
    • 2 large eggs
  • Seasoning Blend:
    • 2 1/2 teaspoons seasoning salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
    • 1 tablespoon onion powder
    • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Frying:
    • 4 cups peanut oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brine by mixing water, salt, and sugar.
  2. Submerge chicken pieces in brine for 8 hours, then drain and pat dry.
  3. Create the flour mixture by combining all dry coating ingredients.
  4. Whisk eggs and milk together for the batter.
  5. Dredge chicken in seasoned flour, then dip in egg mixture, then coat in flour again.
  6. Let the coated chicken rest for 15 minutes.
  7. Heat peanut oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350-375°F.
  8. Fry chicken for approximately 10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  9. Let fried chicken rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra crispy chicken, double-dredge by repeating the flour and egg steps.
  • Letting the chicken rest before frying helps the coating adhere better.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
  • Prep Time: 8 hours 15 minutes (including brining)
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Southern Fried Chicken, Crispy Chicken, Buttermilk Chicken, Comfort Food