Edit: Right now Lodge is offering 50% off their skillets, cookware, etc. Click Here To Take Advantage Of The Deal

Understanding Southern Fried Chicken

Watch the video at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ga6eqNdmRGM&embed=true

Southern Fried Chicken is a beloved comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a dish that is often associated with the American South, but its popularity has spread far beyond its roots. Fried chicken is a dish made by coating chicken pieces in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs and then frying them until they are crispy and golden brown. Southern Fried Chicken is a specific variation of fried chicken that is known for its crispy coating and juicy, flavorful meat.

Chicken is an excellent source of protein, making it a popular ingredient in many dishes. Southern Fried Chicken is no exception. The chicken is typically seasoned with a blend of spices that may include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. The chicken is then coated in a mixture of flour and cornmeal before being fried in hot oil until it is crispy and golden brown.

Southern Fried Chicken is a dish that is often served with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and green beans. It is a hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner with friends to a family gathering.

If you are looking to make Southern Fried Chicken at home, there are many recipes available online. The key to making great Southern Fried Chicken is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to follow the recipe closely. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, with a little bit of practice, you can master the art of making delicious Southern Fried Chicken.

Ingredients for Southern Fried Chicken

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFQi-BN9xvc&embed=true

To make delicious Southern Fried Chicken, you will need a few key ingredients. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for my recipe:

• Chicken: Four pounds of bone-in chicken drumsticks and thighs with skin are perfect for this recipe.
• Buttermilk: Four cups of buttermilk are used to marinate the chicken and make it tender and juicy.
• Seasonings: To season the chicken, you’ll need kosher salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground paprika, and cayenne pepper.
• Flour: Three cups of all-purpose flour are used to coat the chicken before frying.
• Hot Sauce: Two tablespoons of hot sauce, such as Crystal, are added to the buttermilk marinade to give the chicken a little kick.
• Oil: Vegetable oil is used for frying the chicken.

To make the seasoned flour for coating the chicken, you’ll need all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano. Mix these ingredients together in a bowl to create the perfect coating for your chicken.

It’s important to note that the quality of the ingredients you use can have a big impact on the final product. I recommend using high-quality chicken and fresh spices for the best flavor.

Choosing the Right Chicken Parts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-9qdhvNmx8&embed=true

When it comes to making Southern Fried Chicken, choosing the right chicken parts is crucial. While some people prefer white meat, others prefer dark meat. It’s important to keep in mind that different parts of the chicken cook at different rates, so it’s important to choose the right parts to ensure that your chicken is cooked to perfection.

For the best Southern Fried Chicken, I recommend using a combination of dark and white meat. This will give you a variety of textures and flavors, making your chicken more interesting and delicious. Chicken breasts are a popular choice for many people, but they can be a bit dry when fried. To avoid this, consider using breast pieces instead of whole breasts.

Thighs are another great choice for Southern Fried Chicken. They are dark meat, which means they are more flavorful and juicy than white meat. They also have a higher fat content, which makes them less likely to dry out when fried. Drumsticks are also a good option, as they are easy to eat and have a lot of flavor.

When choosing chicken parts for Southern Fried Chicken, it’s important to consider the size of the pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster than larger pieces, so keep this in mind when selecting your chicken parts. You may also want to consider removing the skin from your chicken parts before frying, as this can help reduce the overall fat content of your dish.

In summary, choosing the right chicken parts is key to making the best Southern Fried Chicken. A combination of dark and white meat, such as breast pieces and thighs, is recommended. Consider the size of your chicken parts and whether or not to remove the skin before frying. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious Southern Fried Chicken.

Choosing the Right Oil

When it comes to making Southern fried chicken, choosing the right oil is crucial. The oil you use will affect the flavor, texture, and overall quality of your fried chicken.

Peanut oil is a popular choice for frying chicken in the South. It has a high smoke point, which means it can be heated to high temperatures without burning. Peanut oil also adds a slightly nutty flavor to the chicken, which complements the other seasonings. However, if you or anyone you are cooking for has a peanut allergy, you should avoid using peanut oil.

Vegetable oil is another option for frying chicken. It has a neutral flavor, which allows the other seasonings to shine through. However, it has a lower smoke point than peanut oil, so you will need to be careful not to overheat it.

No matter which oil you choose, it is important to monitor the temperature carefully. The ideal temperature for frying chicken is around 350°F. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside and be undercooked on the inside. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will be greasy and soggy.

In summary, the oil you choose for frying chicken will affect the flavor, texture, and overall quality of your fried chicken. Peanut oil and vegetable oil are both good options, but you should be careful to monitor the temperature and avoid overheating the oil.

Preparing the Chicken

To make the perfect Southern Fried Chicken, the first step is to prepare the chicken. I start by selecting bone-in chicken drumsticks and thighs with skin. These cuts of chicken tend to be more flavorful and moist than other cuts.

Next, I season the chicken with a mixture of kosher salt and ground black pepper. For added flavor, I also add onion powder to the mix. Once the chicken is seasoned, I let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

For an extra crispy coating, I like to dredge the chicken in a mixture of all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and more black pepper. Before dredging the chicken, make sure to shake off any excess seasoning to prevent clumping.

Some recipes call for brining the chicken before cooking, but I find that the seasoning and dredging provide enough flavor and moisture for the chicken. However, if you prefer to brine your chicken, make sure to do so for at least 4 hours before cooking.

Once the chicken is seasoned, dredged, and ready to go, it’s time to fry it up. Stay tuned for the next section where I’ll share my tips for frying the perfect Southern Fried Chicken.

Breading the Chicken

To achieve the perfect crispy crust on our Southern fried chicken, we need to properly bread the chicken pieces. Here’s how I do it:

First, I start by combining flour and seasonings in a shallow dish. The seasonings can vary depending on personal preference, but I like to use a blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Next, I add cornstarch to the flour mixture. The cornstarch helps create a lighter, crispier coating on the chicken. I usually use a ratio of 3 parts flour to 1 part cornstarch.

After mixing the flour and cornstarch together, I beat a few eggs in another shallow dish. The eggs will act as a glue to help the breading stick to the chicken.

Now it’s time to bread the chicken. I start by dipping each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. Then I shake off any excess flour and dip the chicken in the beaten egg, making sure it’s coated on all sides.

Finally, I return the chicken to the flour mixture and coat it again, pressing the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure it’s fully coated. At this point, I like to let the chicken sit for a few minutes to allow the breading to adhere to the chicken.

Once the chicken is breaded, it’s ready to be fried!

Frying the Chicken

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor for Southern Fried Chicken, the frying process is crucial. Here’s how I do it:

First, I heat up the oil in a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven to 350-375°F. I always use a thermometer to make sure the oil is at the right temperature.

Next, I carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet or Dutch oven. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to cook unevenly and not get as crispy.

I fry the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F.

If you prefer an even crispier texture, you can double fry the chicken. After the first fry, let the chicken cool for a few minutes and then fry it again for another 5-7 minutes.

If you have a deep fryer, you can also use that for frying the chicken. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for heating up the oil and cooking the chicken.

The flour coating is also important for achieving the perfect texture. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly and shake off any excess flour before frying.

Overall, frying the chicken requires some attention to detail, but the end result is worth it. The crispy, juicy texture is what makes Southern Fried Chicken so delicious.

Ensuring the Chicken is Cooked

As someone who has cooked Southern Fried Chicken before, I know that it is important to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked before serving. Undercooked chicken can lead to foodborne illnesses, which can be dangerous. Therefore, it is essential to take the necessary steps to ensure that the chicken is cooked properly.

One of the best ways to ensure that the chicken is cooked is by using a meat thermometer. A meat thermometer is a tool that can be used to measure the internal temperature of the chicken. According to the USDA, the safe minimum internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). By inserting the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, you can quickly and accurately determine whether the chicken is fully cooked.

Another option is to use an instant-read thermometer. Unlike a meat thermometer, which needs to be left in the chicken for a few minutes, an instant-read thermometer provides a quick and accurate reading. Simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, and within a few seconds, you will have an accurate reading of the chicken’s internal temperature.

In addition to using a thermometer, it is essential to cook the chicken for the appropriate amount of time. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a general rule, chicken should be cooked for 12-15 minutes per side. However, it is always best to use a thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.

In conclusion, ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked is essential when making Southern Fried Chicken. By using a meat thermometer or an instant-read thermometer and cooking the chicken for the appropriate amount of time, you can ensure that your chicken is safe and delicious.

Post Frying Procedures

Once the chicken has been fried to a golden brown, it is important to take the proper post-frying procedures to ensure that it is both safe to eat and retains its crispy texture.

First, remove the chicken from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Be sure to let the chicken cool for at least 10-15 minutes before handling or serving.

Next, if you plan on serving the chicken immediately, place it in a preheated oven at 200°F on a rimmed baking sheet to keep it warm while you finish frying the remaining chicken. Alternatively, you can place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to ensure that it is fully cooked and heated through.

If you plan on serving the chicken at a later time, let it cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container and storing it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you are ready to serve the chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F, place the chicken on a rimmed baking sheet, and bake it for 10-15 minutes or until it is heated through.

It is important to note that storing fried chicken in the refrigerator can cause it to lose its crispy texture. To combat this, place the chicken on a wire rack on top of a baking sheet and let it come to room temperature before reheating it in the oven. This will help to retain its crispy texture.

In conclusion, by following these post-frying procedures, you can ensure that your Southern fried chicken is both safe to eat and maintains its crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Southern fried chicken, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

Greens

One classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with fried chicken is collard greens. The bitterness of the greens balances out the richness of the chicken, making for a perfectly balanced meal. You can cook the greens with bacon or ham hocks for added flavor, or keep them simple with just a bit of salt and pepper.

Mashed Potatoes

Another classic side dish that goes well with fried chicken is mashed potatoes. The creaminess of the potatoes pairs well with the crispy texture of the chicken, and the gravy from the chicken drippings adds even more flavor. If you want to mix things up, try adding some garlic or chives to your mashed potatoes for an extra kick of flavor.

Sweet Tea

No Southern meal is complete without a glass of sweet tea. The sweetness of the tea helps to balance out the salty flavor of the chicken, and the cold temperature is refreshing on a hot day. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some lemon or mint to your sweet tea for an extra burst of flavor.

Leftover Fried Chicken

If you have leftover fried chicken, don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to enjoy it the next day. You can chop it up and add it to a salad for a protein-packed lunch, or use it to make a sandwich with some lettuce, tomato, and mayo. You can even reheat it in the oven for a quick and easy dinner.

Pork Chop

If you’re looking for a meaty alternative to fried chicken, try serving pork chops with your favorite sides. The crispy texture of the pork chop is similar to fried chicken, and the meat is juicy and flavorful. Plus, pork chops are a great source of protein and can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling to baking.

Overall, there are plenty of delicious and comforting options to serve with your perfect fried chicken. Whether you prefer classic sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens, or something a bit more unexpected like pork chops or leftover fried chicken, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Recipe Details

I have the perfect Southern Fried Chicken recipe that is simple, quick, and easy to make. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy fast-food at home without sacrificing taste. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 45 minutes, it is perfect for those who want a quick and delicious meal.

This recipe serves 4 people, but it can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 pounds bone-in chicken drumsticks and thighs, with skin
• 4 cups buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce (such as Crystal ®)
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 3 teaspoons ground black pepper, divided
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons onion powder

To begin, mix together the buttermilk, hot pepper sauce, kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken to the bowl and coat it well with the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, remaining black pepper, kosher salt, and onion powder. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it well.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

And there you have it, my simple and delicious Southern Fried Chicken recipe that is sure to impress. This recipe is inspired by Paula Deen’s recipe, but I’ve made a few tweaks to make it even better. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make crispy fried chicken?

To make crispy fried chicken, start with fresh, bone-in chicken pieces such as drumsticks, thighs, or wings. Soak them in buttermilk for several hours or overnight to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Then, dredge the chicken in a seasoned flour mixture and fry it in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. For extra crispy chicken, use a mixture of flour and cornstarch in the dredging mixture.

What is the best Southern fried chicken recipe?

The best Southern fried chicken recipe is one that uses fresh, bone-in chicken pieces, a flavorful buttermilk marinade, and a crispy seasoned coating. The chicken should be fried in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through. Some recipes call for using a cast-iron skillet or deep fryer for optimal results. Experiment with different seasonings and coatings to find the recipe that best suits your taste.

What is the secret to making good fried chicken?

The secret to making good fried chicken is to start with fresh, high-quality chicken and marinate it in buttermilk for several hours or overnight. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. The seasoned flour coating should be crispy and well-seasoned, and the chicken should be fried in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through.

What is the difference between fried chicken and Southern fried chicken?

Fried chicken is a general term that refers to any chicken that has been coated in flour or breadcrumbs and fried in oil. Southern fried chicken, on the other hand, is a specific style of fried chicken that is popular in the Southern United States. It is typically marinated in buttermilk and seasoned with a blend of spices before being coated in flour and fried in hot oil.

How do I make buttermilk fried chicken?

To make buttermilk fried chicken, start by marinating chicken pieces in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, and garlic for several hours or overnight. Then, dredge the chicken in a seasoned flour mixture and fry it in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through. The buttermilk marinade helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor, while the seasoned flour coating provides a crispy, flavorful crust.

What should I soak my chicken in before frying?

Before frying chicken, it is best to soak it in buttermilk for several hours or overnight. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. You can also add other seasonings to the buttermilk marinade, such as hot sauce, garlic powder, or paprika, to give the chicken an extra kick of flavor.