Ingredients:
- 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- Canola oil or vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
- Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk mixture, making sure to coat it well. Then, coat it in the flour mixture, pressing the flour mixture onto the chicken to make sure it sticks.
- Place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the coating to set.
- While the chicken is resting, heat about 1-2 inches of oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350-375°F on a thermometer.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Use tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Let the chicken cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your southern-style fried chicken with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.
Fried chicken is a staple in Southern cuisine and this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The key to making great southern-style fried chicken is to use a flavorful coating and to cook it at the right temperature.
The coating for this recipe is a mixture of all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. The cayenne pepper is optional, but it adds a nice kick of heat to the chicken. The buttermilk and eggs work as a binder and help the coating to stick to the chicken.
When it comes to frying the chicken, it is important to use the right type of oil and to heat it to the right temperature. Canola oil or vegetable oil are great options for frying, as they have a high smoke point and don’t have a strong flavor. The oil should be heated to 350-375°F, this will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and the coating becomes golden brown and crispy.
It’s also important not to overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken. Frying the chicken in batches will ensure that the temperature of the oil stays consistent and the chicken cooks evenly.
Once the chicken is cooked, it is important to let it drain on a wire rack. This will help the chicken to stay crispy and also help to prevent the coating from becoming soggy.
This southern-style fried chicken recipe is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish. Some popular options include honey mustard, ranch dressing, or hot sauce. It also goes great with classic southern sides such as macaroni and cheese, collard greens, or mashed potatoes.
In conclusion, this southern-style fried chicken recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.