Classic Crispy Southern Chicken – Imagine biting into a piece of chicken. So perfectly crispy and flavorful. That it instantly transports you. To a warm, sunny porch in the South. That’s what you get. With this Classic Crispy Southern Chicken recipe. Featuring golden, crunchy exteriors and juicy, tender meat. This dish. Crafted with love. And simple ingredients. Like buttermilk, garlic, and a hint of hot sauce. Will be the star of your dinner table.
The first time I made this Classic Crispy Southern Chicken. It was to break the monotony. Of our usual dinner routine. Little did I know. It would become a family treasure. As the aroma filled our home. It drew my husband. And child to the kitchen. Eyes wide in anticipation. The first bite was met with a silence. That spoke volumes. Followed by sounds of joyous eating. This recipe. Now a symbol of comfort and family togetherness. Is requested at our table more often than I can count.
What makes this Classic Crispy Southern Chicken truly special?
What sets this Classic Crispy Southern Chicken apart? First, it’s the perfect marriage of crispy texture. And tender meat. Achieved by marinating in buttermilk. And a special blend of spices. The hot sauce adds a gentle kick. Enhancing the chicken’s flavor. Without overpowering it. Additionally, the use of both flour. And cornstarch in the coating. Ensures that each piece is enveloped in a crunchy, delicious shell. That’s simply irresistible.
What You Need To Make This Classic Crispy Southern Chicken Recipe?
Chicken: Start with a whole chicken. Or your favorite cuts. It’s all about what you and your loved ones enjoy most.
Kosher Salt: It’s not just for the taste! It helps make the chicken juicy. And flavorful from the inside out.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These spices add a cozy, homey taste. That makes the chicken more delicious.
Buttermilk: This magic ingredient makes your chicken super tender. And adds a slight tang. That’s irresistible.
Hot Sauce: Just a splash. Adds a bit of excitement to the chicken. Giving it a gentle kick. Without being too spicy.
Flour & Cornstarch: Mixing these together. Gives your chicken that amazing crunch we all love. It’s like a secret weapon. For the perfect crispy coat.
Paprika: This adds a beautiful color. And a hint of sweetness and warmth. Without making it spicy.
Black Pepper: A bit of this adds depth. And a mild heat. That tickles your taste buds. In the best way.
Peanut Oil: It’s great for frying because it doesn’t add any flavor to the chicken. Letting all the other tasty ingredients shine through.
Flaked Salt: Sprinkling this on the freshly fried chicken. Boosts the flavor. And adds a bit of crunch.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Steps To Make Classic Crispy Southern Chicken:
Step 1: Begin by lovingly seasoning your chicken. With a mixture of salt, garlic, and onion powder. Ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Embrace the process as you add buttermilk and hot sauce. Knowing these flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
Step 2: Whisk together your dry ingredients. With a sense of anticipation. This mixture will create the unforgettable crispiness of your chicken.
Step 3: Heat your oil. And watch as it shimmers. Ready to transform your chicken into golden brown perfection. Coat each piece in the flour mix with care. Allowing the coating to become slightly tacky – this is the secret to the crunch.
Step 4: Fry with patience. Turning each piece. To ensure even cooking and color. Once done. The chicken should rest on a paper towel. Sprinkled with flaked salt to finish.
Tip:
Here’s the scoop: the longer your chicken hangs out in its buttermilk and spice bath. The better it tastes. Think of it like letting the chicken soak up. A whole night’s worth of flavor. This extra time. Makes the chicken super tender. And packed with taste. So, even if you’re really hungry. And want to fry it up quick. Remember: good things come. To those who wait. Planning ahead means your fried chicken will be a knockout at the dinner table. Making all that waiting totally worth it. It’s like giving your chicken a flavor-packed sleepover!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of oil for frying?
Absolutely. While peanut oil is preferred. For its high smoke point. And neutral flavor. Any high smoke point oil. Like canola or vegetable oil. Will work wonderfully.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! You can easily make a substitute. By adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. And letting it sit. For about 5 minutes.
How can I ensure my chicken is cooked thoroughly without drying it out?
The key is to use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Remember, the chicken will continue to cook slightly after it’s removed from the oil. Resulting in perfectly moist meat.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Classic Crispy Southern Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken cut up (or 8 pieces of your favorite cuts)
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 c buttermilk
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 2 c all-purpose flour
- 1 c cornstarch
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp black pepper
- Peanut oil for frying
- Flaked salt for serving, optional
Instructions
- Season Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the chicken with 2 tsp salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Marinate: Add buttermilk and hot sauce to the chicken. Stir well. Cover and chill in the fridge overnight or at least 2 hours.
- Prepare Flour Mix: In another bowl. Mix together flour, cornstarch, 2 tsp salt, paprika, and black pepper.
- Heat Oil: Fill a deep fryer or skillet with peanut oil and heat to 350°F.
- Coat Chicken: Let excess buttermilk drip off each chicken piece, then coat in the flour mixture. Let sit until the coating becomes pasty.
- Fry: Fry the chicken in batches, without crowding, until golden brown and cooked through. Dark meat takes about 12-14 minutes, white meat about 8-10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F internal temperature).
- Drain and Serve: Place fried chicken on a paper towel-lined tray. Sprinkle with flaked salt if desired. Enjoy your crispy. Juicy southern chicken!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
