Homestyle Southern Fried Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're craving that perfect bite of crispy, juicy chicken, look no further. This Homestyle Southern Fried Chicken recipe combines tangy buttermilk and a hint of spice to create a delightful crunch that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients for Homestyle Southern Fried Chicken

The star of this dish is the chicken breasts, which we’ll be transforming into golden-brown perfection. Using all-purpose flour as the base for our coating ensures a crispy exterior. Our seasoning mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper adds depth and a kick to the flavor profile. The eggs, buttermilk, and a dash of hot sauce create a rich, tangy marinade that tenderizes and infuses the chicken with flavor. Lastly, we use vegetable oil for frying, which provides a neutral base that lets the seasoning shine.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly without getting too greasy or burning.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
  • Let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better and results in a crispier finish.

Serving Suggestions

This fried chicken pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, or a tangy coleslaw. For a fresh twist, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as bone-in pieces take longer to cook through.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F, or the juices should run clear when pierced.

Homestyle Southern Fried Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by pounding each chicken breast to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently flatten the chicken. You want them to be about an inch thick, which also helps with the frying time.

In a mixing bowl, stir together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure these are well combined so that each piece of chicken gets a consistent flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the buttermilk and hot sauce, mixing until smooth.

Now, it’s time to coat the chicken. Dip each piece into the flour mixture first, giving it a light dusting. This initial coating helps the egg mixture adhere. Next, immerse the chicken into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, before placing it back into the flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken to create a thick, even coating.

Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’re aiming for the oil to reach 350°F, which is the sweet spot for frying. Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot oil, cooking each side for about 5-6 minutes. You’re looking for a deep golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F.

Remove the fried chicken from the skillet and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. This step is crucial to keep them crispy by absorbing any excess oil.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy coating with a hint of spice that leaves you wanting more.
  • Easy-to-follow steps that make you feel like a pro in the kitchen.
  • Perfectly juicy chicken with a delightful crunch in every bite.
  • Classic Southern flavors that bring comfort to your table.

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce
Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken by pounding each breast to an even thickness.
2. In a bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and hot sauce.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
6. Carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the hot oil. Fry each side for about 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
8. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy southern fried chicken.

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