There is nothing quite like homemade fried chicken—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and packed with bold flavors in every bite. This classic Southern-style fried chicken recipe uses a buttermilk marinade to tenderize the meat and an expertly seasoned flour coating to create an irresistibly crunchy crust.
Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a backyard picnic, or a game-day feast, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Serve it with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Golden Perfection – A seasoned flour coating ensures a crunchy, golden-brown crust.
- Juicy & Tender Inside – The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual meal or a special gathering, this fried chicken is a crowd-pleaser.
- Easy to Customize – Adjust the spice level or add extra seasonings to match your taste.
The Best Fried Chicken Recipe
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 2-24 hours
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: About 2.5 hours (including marinating time)
Ingredients
For the Buttermilk Marinade:
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 4 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, wings)
For the Seasoned Flour Coating:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For Frying:
- 4 cups vegetable oil (or enough to submerge the chicken in a deep pan)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Buttermilk Marinade
- In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, place the chicken pieces and pour in the buttermilk.
- Ensure all chicken pieces are well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with rich flavor.
Step 2: Make the Seasoned Flour Coating
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- This seasoned flour blend is what gives the chicken its deliciously crispy coating.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
- In a large deep skillet, cast-iron pan, or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- A deep-fry thermometer is recommended to maintain the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken is fully cooked. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing firmly to coat the chicken evenly.
- For extra crispy chicken, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again for a double coating.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
- Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry for 10-12 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Drain & Rest
- Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Serving Suggestions
Fried chicken is best enjoyed with classic sides that complement its crispy texture and bold flavors. Here are a few delicious pairings:
- Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – Creamy, buttery potatoes make the perfect pairing.
- Southern-Style Mac & Cheese – Rich, cheesy, and comforting.
- Coleslaw – A refreshing, tangy side to balance the richness.
- Cornbread – Slightly sweet and crumbly, a great side for fried chicken.
- Pickles or Hot Sauce – For an extra burst of flavor.
Expert Tips for the Best Fried Chicken
Use a Thermometer – Keeping the oil at 350°F (175°C) ensures even cooking.
Double Coat for Extra Crunch – Dipping the chicken in buttermilk and flour twice creates a thicker, crispier crust.
Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving – This prevents the juices from running out when you bite in.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan – Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken.
For a Healthier Option, Try Oven-Fried Chicken – Coat the chicken in seasoned flour, spray with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Without Buttermilk?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 2 cups of milk with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes before using.
What Oil Is Best for Frying Chicken?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices because they have high smoke points and neutral flavors.
Can I Store and Reheat Fried Chicken?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to crisp it up again.
Final Thoughts
This homemade crispy fried chicken is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors, crunchy textures, and tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual meal, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
Try it today, and enjoy the perfectly crispy fried chicken with your favorite sides!