Southern Fried Chicken Recipes: Two Authentic, Crispy Variations


If you enjoy crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken, Southern-style fried chicken is a must-try! This traditional American dish has been a Southern kitchen staple for generations, known for its rich seasoning, crunchy crust, and tender meat. In this article, we'll go over two different Southern fried chicken recipes that bring out the best in this popular dish. Whether you prefer the classic buttermilk-soaked version or the spicier Nashville hot chicken, you're in for a treat.

Recipe 1: Classic Buttermilk Southern Fried Chicken


Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces)

2 cups buttermilk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)


Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour the buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum tenderness.

2. Prepare the Flour Coating:

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, baking powder, and cornstarch.

3. Coat the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coat. Let the coated chicken rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes to help the breading adhere.

4. Heat the Oil:

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry the Chicken:

Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Drain & Serve:

Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.


Enjoy this crispy, flavorful buttermilk fried chicken with classic sides l

ike mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits!


Recipe 2: Nashville Hot Chicken (Spicy Southern Fried Chicken)


Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces)

2 cups buttermilk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon cornstarch

1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Spicy Coating:

1/2 cup melted butter

3 tablespoons cayenne pepper (adjust to spice preference)

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt


Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:

Soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for better flavor).

2. Prepare the Seasoned Flour:

In a bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, baking powder, and cornstarch.

3. Coat the Chicken:

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring even coating. Let the chicken rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes.

4. Heat the Oil:

In a deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

5. Fry the Chicken:

Fry in batches for about 12-15 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.

6. Prepare the Spicy Coating:

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.

7. Coat the Fried Chicken:

Once the chicken is fried, brush or drizzle the spicy coating over the top for that signature Nashville hot chicken flavor.

8. Serve Hot:

Enjoy with 

white bread and pickles for an authentic experience!


Concluding remark:

These two recipes perfectly encapsulate the crispy, flavorful goodness of southern fried chicken, one of America's most popular comfort foods. Both recipes will wow your family and friends, whether you choose the traditional buttermilk version or add some Nashville hot chicken.

Serve your fried chicken with classic Southern sides like collard greens, cornbread, or macaroni and cheese for the greatest effect. Bring the flavor of the South into your kitchen with your homemade crispy fried chicken!