Oh yes β Southern Fried Chicken is crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. It’s all about that perfect golden crust and tender inside. Here’s a classic version that’ll make you feel like you’re in the heart of the South:

π Southern Fried Chicken Recipe
π Time: About 1.5 hours (including marination)
π½ Serves: 4β6 people
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces) or 8β10 bone-in chicken parts
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional but classic!)
- Salt and black pepper
For the Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Β½ tsp cayenne pepper (for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- Β½ tsp black pepper
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil or peanut oil (enough for deep frying)
Instructions:
- Marinate:
In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
Add chicken, mix to coat well. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (overnight is best!). - Prepare Coating:
Mix all the coating ingredients in a large bowl or zip-top bag. - Dredge the Chicken:
Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
Dredge each piece in the flour mix. Press it in well for an extra crispy coating. - Heat Oil:
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 325β350Β°F (165β175Β°C).
Fry chicken in batches β donβt overcrowd the pan! - Fry Until Golden:
Fry 12β15 minutes for large pieces, 8β10 minutes for smaller ones, turning occasionally.
Internal temp should reach 165Β°F (74Β°C). - Drain & Rest:
Let fried chicken rest on a wire rack (not paper towels β it helps stay crispy!).
π½οΈ Serve With:
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Mashed potatoes and gravy
- Coleslaw
- Cornbread
- Sweet tea on the side π
Want a spicy Nashville hot version or maybe a Korean twist with gochujang glaze?