Crispy Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken is a beloved dish known for its crispy, flavorful coating and juicy meat inside. Here’s a recipe to make some delicious crispy Southern fried chicken:

Ingredients:

• 8 pieces of chicken (legs, thighs, breasts, or a mix)
• 2 cups of buttermilk
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 1 tablespoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spiciness)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
2. Prepare the coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
3. Coat the chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure they are evenly coated. For extra crispy chicken, you can repeat this process for a double coating.
4. Heat the oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat enough vegetable oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken: Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook the chicken until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 12-15 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Drain and serve: Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, remove it from the oil and place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. Enjoy: Serve the crispy Southern fried chicken hot, with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or biscuits. Enjoy the deliciously crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat inside!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, and don’t forget to enjoy this classic Southern comfort food with your family and friends!