Best Southern Fried Chicken
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When you think about Southern comfort food, certain dishes immediately come to mind: cornbread, gumbo, grits, and the crowning glory — fried chicken. There’s something truly special about Southern Fried Chicken. With its crunchy, crusty exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, this dish is infused with spices and seasonings and soaked in buttermilk to elevate its flavor. It’s a must-have in any collection of chicken recipes!
As much as I try to keep my meals balanced with greens, I find it impossible to resist the allure of fried chicken. It’s been a staple in my family’s diet for as long as I can remember. Over the years, I’ve developed a passion for gathering various fried and baked chicken recipes. Don’t believe me? A quick browse through my site will reveal a host of chicken recipes that rank among my most popular. 😉
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Southern Fried Chicken recipe is a game-changer. The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful, while the seasoned flour coating adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large bowl
- Paper towels
- Large, heavy saucepan or deep skillet
- Food thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Foil
- Warming drawer or oven
Ingredients
- 16 chicken drumsticks (or a combination of drumsticks and thighs)
- 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Tabasco sauce
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons black pepper (divided)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying, about 3 cups)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your warming drawer or oven to 200°F.
Step 2: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, Tabasco sauce, salt, and 1 tablespoon of black pepper. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours.
Step 4: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off.
Step 5: Combine the flour, remaining black pepper, and cayenne. Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour, then place on a rack to let it rest while you heat the oil.
Step 6: In a large saucepan or skillet, heat 3 cups of oil to 365°F. Fry the chicken in batches for about 10 minutes, turning once. Use a food thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the chicken reaches at least 165°F.
Step 7: Transfer the cooked chicken to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Place the drained chicken on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and keep warm in the oven as you fry the remaining batches.
Step 9: Serve and enjoy your delicious Southern Fried Chicken!
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure your oil is at the correct temperature before frying. This ensures a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken.
Additional Tips or Variations
Experiment with different spices in your flour mixture to create your own signature flavor. You can also try adding a bit of smoked paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While fried chicken is more of an indulgence, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of drumsticks? Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts may cook faster.
What can I use instead of buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
Conclusion
I hope this recipe brings a taste of the South to your kitchen and becomes a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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