Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken is a classic dish that brings joy to many people. It is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This recipe is easy to follow, and anyone can make it at home. Just imagine biting into that golden, crunchy skin. It takes you to a place of comfort and happiness.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe because it is simple and uses common ingredients. The flavors are rich and warm, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The crispy texture is satisfying, and the juiciness of the chicken will make you come back for seconds. This recipe is great for any occasion and is sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, it’s perfect for pairing with other Southern favorites like biscuits or collard greens.

HOW TO MAKE Southern Fried Chicken

Making Southern fried chicken is a fun process. You get to mix ingredients and watch the chicken turn from raw to golden brown. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Southern fried chicken, you will need some basic kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls
• A large plastic bag
• A skillet or frying pan
• A meat thermometer (optional)
• Paper towels for draining

 

 

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 beaten eggs
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 4 teaspoons garlic salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Mix the Eggs and Milk: Start by beating the eggs in a bowl. Add the milk and mix them together well. This will be your egg mixture.
2. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a large plastic bag, combine the flour, garlic salt, black pepper, poultry seasoning, and paprika. Mix them together by shaking the bag gently.
3. Coat the Chicken: Take the chicken pieces and place them in the bag with the flour mixture. Seal the bag and shake it well until the chicken is coated with the flour mix.
4. Double Dip the Chicken: Now, dip the flour-coated chicken into the egg mixture. Let any excess egg drip off. Then, put the chicken back into the bag with the flour mix. Shake again to coat it for a second time.
5. Heat the Oil: In a skillet, heat the oil to 365 degrees F. Make sure it’s hot enough for frying.
6. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil. Brown the chicken on all sides. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
7. Cook Through: After browning, turn the heat down to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let the chicken cook for another 30 minutes or until it’s cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the inside is at least 165 degrees F.
8. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain the excess oil. Serve it hot and enjoy!

HOW TO SERVE Southern Fried Chicken

You can serve Southern fried chicken as a main dish. It’s great on its own or with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread. A drizzle of gravy or hot sauce can add extra flavor. Make sure to have plenty of napkins on hand, as it can get messy but delicious!

STORAGE & FREEZING: Southern Fried Chicken

If you have leftover fried chicken, you can store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

If you want to freeze it, wrap each piece in foil or plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. Use the frozen chicken within 2 months for the best taste. To reheat, bake it in the oven so it stays crispy.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Southern fried chicken goes well with many sides. Here are some great options:

• Mashed potatoes with gravy
• Biscuits with honey or butter
• Collard greens or green beans
• Macaroni and cheese
• Fresh corn on the cob
• A crisp salad with a light dressing

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to change up Southern fried chicken. Consider trying these variations:

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a kick.
• Herb-Infused Chicken: Use fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary in the flour mix for added flavor.
• Buttermilk Fried Chicken: Substitute buttermilk for regular milk in the egg mixture. It gives a richer taste.

 

 

FAQs

1. Can I use skinless chicken?
Yes, you can use skinless chicken, but it may not be as crispy as the chicken with skin.

2. What type of oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices for frying chicken. They have a high smoke point.

3. How can I make my chicken extra crispy?
Make sure to double dip the chicken in the egg and flour. You can also let it sit for a few minutes before frying to help create a thicker crust.

4. Can I fry the chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry chicken. Preheat your air fryer and follow similar steps by coating the chicken and frying until crispy.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Southern Fried Chicken

You can prepare some parts of this recipe ahead of time. Here are a few tips:

• Marinate the Chicken: You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk or plain milk overnight. It will be tender and flavorful when cooked.
• Pre-coat the Chicken: Coat the chicken with flour the day before. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge overnight. On the day you plan to fry it, dip it in the egg mixture and fry as usual.

With these tips, your Southern fried chicken will be a hit every time. Enjoy your cooking!

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