Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

This Southern fried chicken recipe creates the ultimate comfort food with perfectly crispy, golden chicken and juicy, flavorful meat inside. Ideal for family gatherings, picnics, or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress. The unique twist of adding buffalo sauce in the egg wash enhances flavor and takes your fried chicken to a new level of deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The addition of buffalo sauce gives a delightful kick, elevating traditional fried chicken to something extraordinary.
• Crispy Exterior: Using self-rising flour ensures a light and crunchy coating that locks in moisture.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it hot with sides like coleslaw or biscuits, or pack it cold for a picnic treat!
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings; everyone loves a good piece of fried chicken.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with this Southern fried chicken recipe, having the right tools is essential. A few key pieces of equipment will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wire rack
• Cooking thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer: Ensures consistent temperature control for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Great for combining ingredients without mess; helps keep everything organized.
• Whisk: Quickly blends wet ingredients ensuring an even egg wash for better coating adherence.

Ingredients

This Southern fried chicken recipe uses fresh ingredients for optimal taste. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

• 3 eggs
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 whole chicken cut up into parts (or 8 pieces of your favorite parts)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 25 cracks black pepper (divided)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder

For the Coating

• 2 cups self-rising flour
• Peanut oil (for frying)

How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oil

• Preheat oil to 350°F. You can use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed skillet/dutch oven with at least 3 inches of oil. Avoid overfilling your pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, water, and buffalo sauce. Set aside.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

• Season all sides of the chicken with kosher salt, 5 cracks of black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside for flavor infusion.

Step 4: Prepare the Flour Mixture

• In another large bowl, mix together the self-rising flour and remaining black pepper. Set aside.

Step 5: Dredge the Chicken

• When the oil is heated, take each piece of chicken and dip it into the egg mixture.
• Allow any excess egg to fall off before placing it in the flour mixture. Coat thoroughly on all sides while shaking off any excess flour.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

• Carefully place each piece of coated chicken into the hot oil without overcrowding.
• Fry dark meat pieces for about 13-14 minutes and white meat pieces for about 8-10 minutes. Turn halfway through if needed for an even golden brown crust.
• Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Step 7: Drain Excess Oil

• Once cooked, transfer chicken onto a wire rack set over a sheet tray to keep it crispy by preventing excess oil absorption.
• Sprinkle with additional kosher salt immediately after frying. Serve warm for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

Serving your Southern fried chicken recipe can elevate the dining experience. The crispy, flavorful chicken pairs well with various sides and sauces that enhance its taste.

Classic Comfort

• Coleslaw: This crunchy side provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of fried chicken.
• Cornbread: A sweet and moist cornbread is perfect for soaking up any juices and adds a delightful texture.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles brighten the dish and complement the savory notes of the chicken.

Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce adds an extra layer of flavor for dipping.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing offers a cool, herby dip that goes well with the crispy chicken.
• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, a drizzle of hot sauce can take your fried chicken to another level.

How to Perfect Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Southern fried chicken recipe, consider these key tips.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you thoroughly season your chicken before frying. This step enhances the overall flavor.
• Proper oil temperature: Maintain oil at 350°F for optimal frying. Too hot can burn the crust; too cold will make it greasy.
• Use self-rising flour: This ingredient creates a light, crispy coating that’s essential for true Southern fried chicken.
• Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness on each piece.

Best Side Dishes for Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

Pairing your Southern fried chicken recipe with the right sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are classic comfort food that complements fried chicken beautifully.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds add a crunchy texture and fresh flavor to your plate.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy mac and cheese is a beloved side dish that everyone will enjoy.
4. Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes offer a tangy twist that pairs perfectly with Southern flavors.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a hearty balance to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a seasonal favorite that enhances any outdoor gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Frying chicken can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the perfect Southern Fried Chicken Recipe. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many pieces of chicken at once, the oil temperature drops, leading to greasy chicken. Fry in smaller batches to maintain the right heat.
• Skipping seasoning: A bland chicken won’t have the flavor you desire. Season every piece well with salt and spices before breading.
• Not heating oil properly: If your oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become soggy. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F for crispy results.
• Using the wrong flour: Self-rising flour gives the best texture and flavor. Avoid using all-purpose flour as it won’t provide the same lightness and crispiness.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe to eat. Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

• Place cooled fried chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and reheat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and warm each piece for around 5-7 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Southern Fried Chicken Recipe:

How do I make my Southern Fried Chicken extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, double-dip your chicken pieces in the egg wash and flour mixture before frying. The added layer helps create a crunchier coating.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or even lamb pieces if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat used.

What sides go well with Southern Fried Chicken?

Classic sides include coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. They complement the flavors of fried chicken beautifully!

How long does it take to cook Southern Fried Chicken?

Cooking times vary depending on whether you’re using dark or white meat. Dark meat usually takes about 13-14 minutes while white meat cooks in about 8-10 minutes.

Is this Southern Fried Chicken Recipe spicy?

The inclusion of buffalo sauce adds a mild kick. If you prefer less spice, consider reducing the amount of buffalo sauce in the egg wash.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Fried Chicken Recipe is sure to impress with its crispy exterior and juicy interior. It’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or sauces, allowing for customization based on your preferences. Try it today and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal!