BEST SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN EVER

Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly crisp, golden-brown skin that gives way to juicy, tender chicken, seasoned with just the right blend of spices – that’s the magic of authentic Southern Fried Chicken. If you’re craving that down-home comfort food experience, look no further because I’m about to share my foolproof recipe for the best Southern fried chicken you’ve ever tasted, and I promise, you CAN do this!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredients

Before we dive into the process, let’s gather our ingredients. Quality ingredients are key to achieving that authentic Southern flavor.

For the Brine:

• 4 cups cold water
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns, crushed
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, but recommended)

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces (or use your favorite chicken parts)

For the Fried Chicken Batter:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the Egg Wash:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)

For Frying:

• 3-4 cups vegetable shortening, peanut oil, or canola oil

The Secret to Success: Brining Your Chicken

Okay, listen up, because this is where the magic starts. Brining isn’t just some fancy chef thing; it’s the KEY to juicy, flavorful chicken. Seriously, don’t skip this step! It’s what separates good fried chicken from AMAZING fried chicken.

The brine infuses the chicken with moisture and flavor, ensuring it stays tender during the frying process. Think of it as a spa day for your chicken!

1. In a large bowl or pot, combine the cold water, salt, sugar, crushed peppercorns, smashed garlic, and hot sauce (if using). Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the brine, making sure they are fully submerged. You might need to weigh them down with a plate.
3. Cover the bowl or pot and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it brines, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. But don’t go over 24 hours, or it can become too salty.

Crafting the Perfect Fried Chicken Batter

Now, let’s talk about the batter. This is where we build that signature crispy, flavorful crust. I’ve tinkered with this Crispy Chicken Batter Recipe for years to get it just right, and trust me, it’s a winner.

The combination of flour, cornstarch, and spices creates a light, yet sturdy coating that crisps up beautifully in the hot oil. The baking powder and baking soda help to create a slightly airy texture, preventing the batter from becoming too dense.

If you’re looking for something similar but want a lighter bite, you might also enjoy Fried Chicken Tenders. The principle is the same, just a different cut of chicken.

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.

The Egg Wash: Binding it All Together

The egg wash is crucial for helping the batter adhere to the chicken. Buttermilk adds a subtle tang and richness that complements the savory spices.

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk (or milk mixture), and hot sauce (if using).

Step-by-Step Instructions: Frying Like a Pro

Alright, it’s time for the main event! Frying can seem intimidating, but with a little patience and these tips, you’ll be turning out golden-brown masterpieces in no time. Remember, safety first! Always use caution when working with hot oil.

1. Remove the chicken pieces from the brine and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is SUPER important! Excess moisture will prevent the batter from sticking and result in soggy chicken.
2. Set up a breading station: place the flour mixture in one shallow dish, the egg wash in another.
3. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, dredge it again in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the batter adheres well. This double-dredging creates a thicker, crispier crust.
4. Heat the vegetable shortening, peanut oil, or canola oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to 325-350°F (160-175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is essential for even cooking and preventing the chicken from becoming greasy.
5. Carefully place a few pieces of chicken in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
6. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
7. Remove the fried chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps to keep the crust crispy.
8. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces, maintaining the oil temperature.
9. Let the chicken cool slightly before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful chicken.

If you like this, you might want to try Iron-skillet Fried Chicken which uses similar techniques with different nuances.

Troubleshooting: Common Frying Fails (and How to Fix Them!)

Okay, let’s be real – frying can be tricky. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:

• Soggy Chicken: The most common culprit is not drying the chicken thoroughly before breading. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough and don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Burnt Chicken: Your oil is too hot! Reduce the heat and monitor the temperature closely.
• Unevenly Cooked Chicken: Make sure the chicken pieces are of similar size for even cooking. Also, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
• Batter Falling Off: This usually happens when the chicken is too wet, or the batter isn’t adhering properly. Try pressing the batter onto the chicken more firmly.

Flavor Variations: Spice It Up!

Want to put your own spin on this classic? Here are a few ideas:

• Nashville Hot Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper to the batter, and then toss the fried chicken in a cayenne pepper-infused oil after frying.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, and rosemary) to the batter.
• Spicy Ranch Chicken: Add a packet of ranch seasoning to the batter, along with a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal

Southern fried chicken is best served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, mac and cheese, and green beans. Don’t forget the biscuits!

And if you’re in the mood for more Southern comfort food, consider whipping up some Fried Pork Chops or Country Fried Steak With Cream Gravy. These dishes share similar cooking techniques and flavor profiles.

Freezing Cooked Chicken: A Time-Saving Tip

Did you make too much? Don’t worry! You can easily freeze your leftover fried chicken for a quick and easy meal later on. To freeze, let the chicken cool completely. Then, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Fried Chicken Batter will hold up very well to freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake the frozen chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in an air fryer for a crispier result.

Fried Chicken Gizzards And Gravy

For an extra southern treat try Fried Chicken Gizzards And Gravy. This uses similar frying techniques and is a great way to create a full Southern meal.

Final Thoughts: Your Fried Chicken Journey

Making Southern Fried Chicken at home is a labor of love, but the reward is SO worth it. With a little practice and these tips, you’ll be serving up crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken that rivals any restaurant. So, gather your ingredients, put on some good music, and get ready to fry! You’ve got this!