Easy Fried Chicken: Classic Southern Recipe Everyone Can Make

Name: Fried Chicken
Prep time: 8 h 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 8 h 35 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: – 2 pounds chicken pieces (mixed drumsticks, thighs, or breasts) for main protein; – 2 cups all-purpose flour for breading; – 2 teaspoons paprika for flavor and color; – 1 teaspoon garlic powder for seasoning; – 1 teaspoon onion powder for seasoning; – 1 teaspoon salt for seasoning; – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for subtle spice; – 1 cup milk to help breading adhere; – 2 eggs as a binder; – 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying

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Why You’ll Love This Fried Chicken

If you’re craving a crispy, golden fried chicken that’s both flavorful and straightforward, this recipe is a winner for any meal, from casual weeknights to special gatherings. It’s designed with simplicity in mind, delivering that classic comfort without overwhelming prep. Here’s why you’re going to enjoy making and eating this fried chicken favorite:

Ease of preparation: This fried chicken recipe requires just 15 minutes of prep and 20-25 minutes of cooking, totaling about 40 minutes for a satisfying result that’s great for beginners or busy cooks. The simple breading process and shallow-frying technique make it accessible, allowing you to skip complex tools and get perfect fried chicken fast and effortlessly.
Health benefits: Packed with protein from lean chicken (around 30g per serving), this version includes herbs and spices that add antioxidants, with options like baking instead of frying to reduce calories to about 350 per piece. It supports wellness by using healthier oils and seasonings that promote heart health, making fried chicken a balanced treat when paired with salads or v %}
Versatility: Easily adapted for different diets, this fried chicken can be swapped with plant-based alternatives or gluten-free coatings, fitting various preferences like keto or low-carb needs. Whether for travel-friendly picnics or family dinners, it’s flexible enough to customize, positioning fried chicken as a go-to option for everyone.
Distinctive flavor: What makes this fried chicken stand out is the perfect blend of garlic, paprika, and herbs in the seasoned breading, creating a crunchy exterior with juicy insides for an irresistible taste. This twist on southern classics ensures a memorable, spiced profile that’s both comforting and unique, appealing to all palates.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Fried Chicken
2. Essential Ingredients for Fried Chicken
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Fried Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Fried Chicken
5. Mastering Fried Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Fried Chicken: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Chicken
8. Fried Chicken

Essential Ingredients for Fried Chicken

For the best fried chicken, focus on quality ingredients that deliver crunch and flavor. Here’s a detailed list with precise measurements and explanations to make your cooking smooth.

Main Ingredients

2 pounds chicken pieces (mixed drumsticks, thighs, or breasts) – Provides the main protein base, ensuring juicy results with about 30g protein per serving for a satisfying meal.
2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the crispy breading, creating a golden crust that locks in moisture and flavors.
2 teaspoons paprika – Adds a smoky, vibrant color and mild heat, enhancing the overall taste profile of the fried chicken.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses aromatic depth, boosting the seasoning with health benefits like immune support.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Contributes savory notes and balances flavors for a well-rounded coating.
1 teaspoon salt – Seasons the breading evenly, drawing out the natural tastiness of the chicken.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Brings a subtle spice that complements the other seasonings in fried chicken.
1 cup milk – Helps the breading adhere to the chicken, adding moisture for tenderness.
2 eggs – Acts as a binder in the batter, ensuring the flour coating sticks perfectly for crunchy results.
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying) – Allows for even cooking and crisping without overpowering the chicken’s flavor.

Special Dietary Options

Vegan: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or seitan and use a flax egg mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) for the batter in vegan-friendly fried chicken.
Gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour to maintain the crunch while keeping it gluten-free.
Low-calorie: Bake instead of fry with just a light oil spray to reduce calories, focusing on baked versions for a lighter fried chicken alternative.

How to Prepare the Perfect Fried Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing fried chicken is simple and rewarding, with just 15 minutes of prep and 20-25 minutes of cooking for a total time of about 40 minutes, yielding juicy, crunchy results. This guide includes adaptable steps for dietary preferences like gluten-free or vegan options, making it ideal for various kitchens and occasions.

First Step: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin with mise en place by gathering 2 pounds chicken pieces, mixing the dry ingredients (2 cups allpurpose flour, 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper) in one bowl, and whisking 2 eggs with 1 cup milk in another this takes about 5 minutes. For vegan adaptations, prepare a flax egg mixture as a binder to keep the coating effective.

Second Step: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the seasoned flour mix, pressing gently for even coverage, which should take 5-7 minutes. This step ensures a crispy exterior; for gluten-free versions, use an alternative flour here to maintain texture without issues.

Third Step: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat 1/2 cup vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F, which takes about 5 minutes this is key for even frying. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer; if adapting for low-calorie fried chicken, preheat the oven to 400°F as an alternative baking method.

Fourth Step: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, frying in batches for 10-12 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Turn once for even browning; for dietary tweaks, opt for air-frying at 375°F for 15 minutes if making a lighter version.

Final Step: Drain and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oil and place on a paper-lined rack to drain excess oil, letting it rest for 5 minutes to crisp up. Season with extra salt if needed, then serve hot with sides like coleslaw or fries, adjusting for preferences like vegan substitutes in your fried chicken feast.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Fried Chicken

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Customizing the protein in fried chicken allows for easy adaptations; for vegan options, swap chicken with tempeh or cauliflower to achieve a similar crispy texture while keeping nutrition in check.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Try adding zucchini or bell peppers in the breading for added crunch, or swap spices with cayenne for heat, making fried chicken versatile for seasonal flavors or restrictions.

Mastering Fried Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations

Elevate your fried chicken with these expert insights, from techniques to creative spins, for consistently great results in your kitchen.

Pro Cooking Techniques

Double-dredge for extra crunch, ensuring each piece is perfectly coated in fried chicken prep.

Flavor Variations

Infuse with herbs like rosemary or experiment with spice blends for unique twists on fried chicken.

Presentation Tips

Arrange on a platter with fresh garnishes for an appealing display of fried chicken servings.

Make-Ahead Options

Marinate overnight to enhance flavors, simplifying your fried chicken routine for busier days.

How to Store Fried Chicken: Best Practices

Storing fried chicken keeps it tasty and safe; follow these tips for different storage needs.

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to retain crispiness of fried chicken.
Freezing: Freeze in freezer bags for up to 2 months, preserving texture for later fried chicken enjoyment.
Reheating: Reheat in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crunch and quality.
Meal Prep Considerations: Portion into meals for easy access, making fried chicken ideal for weekly planning.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Fried Chicken

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk to marinate fried chicken?

While regular milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice can be used as a substitute, it won’t give the same depth of flavor and tenderness as real buttermilk. Buttermilk’s acidity helps break down proteins in the chicken, making it juicier and more flavorful. For best results, marinate your chicken in buttermilk overnight to achieve maximum tenderness and taste.

How can I prevent the breading from falling off the fried chicken?

To keep the breading intact, let the coated chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before frying. This resting period allows the egg wash and flour mixture to adhere better. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as frying in smaller batches ensures even cooking and less disturbance to the coating.

What type of oil is best for frying chicken?

Peanut oil is preferred for frying chicken due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, which won’t interfere with the chicken’s taste. Canola oil is a good alternative if peanut oil isn’t available. Both oils help achieve that crispy, golden crust.

Why is my fried chicken sometimes soggy, and how can I fix it?

Soggy fried chicken usually results from oil that isn’t hot enough or overcrowding the pan. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) and fry in small batches. After frying, drain the chicken on a rack or paper towels to remove excess oil and keep the crust crisp.

Can I reuse frying oil for making another batch of fried chicken?

Yes, you can reuse oil a few times. Let it cool completely, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove food particles. Store it in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dark place. Avoid reusing oil if it smells rancid or has changed color significantly.

Fried Chicken: Classic Southern Recipe for Everyone