Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside — just like Grandma used to make.
Few dishes capture the heart of Southern cooking quite like fried chicken. Golden, crunchy, and full of flavor, this recipe has been passed down through generations and continues to be a favorite at Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and backyard picnics.
With a simple blend of spices and a double-dip coating for extra crunch, this Southern Fried Chicken recipe guarantees perfect results every time!
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 4 teaspoons garlic salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, wings — your choice)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth.
This mixture will help the flour coating stick and create that signature crunch.
Step 2: Make the Seasoned Coating
In a large resealable plastic bag or bowl, combine:
- Flour
- Garlic salt
- Paprika
- Poultry seasoning
- Black pepper
Seal the bag and shake well to mix the spices evenly through the flour.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Place each chicken piece into the flour mixture, seal the bag, and shake until evenly coated.
- Dip the coated chicken into the egg wash.
- Return it to the flour mixture and coat again — this double coating ensures a thick, crispy crust.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large, heavy skillet or cast-iron pan to 365°F (185°C).
- Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
Step 5: Cook Through
Lower the heat to medium-low and continue cooking the chicken for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve hot and enjoy that irresistible crunch with every bite!
💡 Tips for Perfect Southern Fried Chicken
- Use a cast-iron skillet: It maintains steady heat and creates an even, crispy crust.
- Don’t rush the frying: Lower heat ensures the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
- Add spice: For a spicy version, mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the flour mixture.
- Soak in buttermilk: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for 4–8 hours before frying for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Keep it crispy: Place fried chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels if you’re cooking large batches — it prevents sogginess.
🍴 Serving Ideas
Pair your Southern Fried Chicken with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes and gravy
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Coleslaw
- Corn on the cob
- Sweet iced tea or lemonade
🕰️ Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes to restore crispiness (avoid microwaving — it softens the crust).
- Freeze: Wrap pieces tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F oven until hot and crisp.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Southern Fried Chicken is more than just a meal — it’s a tradition. With its golden crust and tender, juicy meat, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile. Whether you’re making it for Sunday supper or a summer picnic, this recipe guarantees classic, crowd-pleasing results every time.
Crispy, flavorful, and full of Southern charm — this is fried chicken done right. 🍗🤍
