Craving a timeless Southern classic that defines comfort food? This Southern Fried Chicken recipe delivers a crispy, golden crust with juicy, flavorful chicken inside. Passed down through generations, it’s the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Timeless Flavor: Enjoy the authentic taste of Southern tradition in every bite.
- Crispy Perfection: A foolproof method ensures a crunchy, golden crust every time.
- Family Favorite: A cherished recipe that feels like a warm hug from home.
- Simple Ingredients: Everyday pantry staples create this delicious masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 1 Whole Chicken: Cut into 8 pieces for even cooking.
- 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour: Forms the crispy coating.
- 1 Tablespoon Salt & 1 Tablespoon Pepper: Simple seasoning for bold flavor.
- 2 Teaspoons Dried Sage: Adds a hint of earthy herbaceousness.
- 1 Cup Milk: Tenderizes the chicken for ultimate juiciness.
- 1 Cup Vegetable Oil: Perfect for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
How to Make Southern Fried Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken pieces in a bowl and cover with milk. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to tenderize.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a large zip-top bag, mix flour, salt, pepper, and sage. Remove chicken from milk, allowing excess to drip off, and coat each piece evenly in the flour mixture. Refrigerate coated chicken for 15-20 minutes to set the crust.
Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces carefully, skin-side down, and cover. Fry for about 10 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for a zesty punch.
- Buttermilk Brine: Use buttermilk instead of milk for a tangier marinade.
- Herb Variations: Try thyme, rosemary, or paprika to customize the seasoning.
- Boneless Option: Swap in boneless chicken tenders for quicker cooking.
What to Serve With Southern Fried Chicken
- Mashed Potatoes & Gravy: A creamy classic pairing.
- Crisp Salad: A fresh, vibrant side balances the richness of the chicken.
- Cornbread & Coleslaw: Essential Southern sides for a complete meal.
- Peach Cobbler or Pecan Pie: End with a sweet Southern dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes! Boneless pieces work well but may cook faster, so monitor closely.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are excellent choices for their high smoke points.
How do I keep the chicken crispy?
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crust soggy.
This Southern Fried Chicken features a golden, crunchy crust with tender, juicy meat inside. Perfectly seasoned and irresistibly crispy, it’s comfort food at its finest—a dish that brings everyone to the table and keeps them coming back for more.
Southern Fried Chicken
Equipment
- Large sauté pan
Ingredients
- Whole chicken cut into 8 pieces
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp pepper
- 2 tsp sage
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup vegetable oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl, pour milk over them, and refrigerate for an hour.
- Step 2: Coat the chicken: In a sealed plastic bag, combine flour, salt, pepper, and sage. Shake well to mix. Coat the chicken evenly with the flour mixture and refrigerate until needed.
- Step 3: Fry the chicken: Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Carefully add the chicken pieces, cover the pan, and cook on each side until brown and cooked through, approximately 10 minutes per side.