Cindy’s Somewhat Southern Fried Chicken
Are you ready to sink your teeth into the crispiest, juiciest Southern Fried Chicken you’ve ever tasted? I’m excited to share my favorite recipe with you, packed with flavors and the perfect crunch! Get your frying pan ready, as this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious southern Fried Chicken
Getting ready to fry up some amazing Southern Fried Chicken? You’re in for a treat! Let’s gather our ingredients, wich are easy to find and pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large eggs – These help create a sticky coating on the chicken.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The main player for that crispy outer layer!
- 1 tablespoon rubbed sage – This gives a beautiful herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the delicious flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – For a little kick.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – adds a subtle sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything better!
- 2 cups vegetable oil (or enough to fill your pan about 2 inches deep) – This is what you’ll use to fry the chicken, so make sure it’s good quality.
- 4 chicken leg quarters – Cut into thighs and drumsticks. feel free to use any chicken pieces you prefer!
That’s it! These simple ingredients are what make this fried chicken so satisfying. Each one plays a role in creating that crispy, juicy bite that we all love. Trust me, you’ll love how everything comes together in just one pan!
step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Southern Fried Chicken
Are you ready to fry some chicken? Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps, and you’ll be savoring the best Southern Fried Chicken in no time.
- Prep the Eggs: Start by beating the eggs in a shallow bowl until they’re nice and frothy. This will help the flour stick to the chicken later on.
- Mix the Dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sage, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Make sure everything is well mixed; this step is key to seasoning the chicken evenly.
- Heat That oil: Grab a large, deep skillet and pour in the vegetable oil so it’s about 2 inches deep. Heat it over medium-high heat until it’s hot and shimmering. you can test if it’s ready by dropping in a small bit of flour – if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Shake off any excess flour.
- Fry Away: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry them on one side until they’re golden brown, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Then, flip them over and reduce the heat to medium. Cook the other side for another 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Draining Time: Once the chicken is cooked,use tongs to remove it and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
And there you have it! Serve the chicken hot, and get ready for some compliments! I can already smell the aroma wafting through the kitchen. Enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips for Perfect Southern Fried chicken
Now that we’ve fried up some mouthwatering Southern Fried Chicken, let’s talk about how to serve it and keep those leftovers tasty! This chicken is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Pairings: Serve your fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, collard greens, or a refreshing coleslaw. These pairings balance the crispy chicken perfectly!
- Sauces & Extras: I love adding a drizzle of honey or hot sauce for an extra flavor kick! You could also whip up some homemade gravy using the leftover oil and flour mixture. Yummy!
- Presentation: Arrange the chicken on a large platter, and maybe sprinkle a bit of chopped parsley on top to make it look fancy and inviting. Your guests will be impressed!
Storage Tips:
- To Store Leftovers: Let the chicken cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. This helps keep it nice and juicy.
- Refrigeration: Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to enjoy it before it gets too old!
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, freeze it! Wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months. Just remember to label it so you don’t forget about it!
Reheating Tips:
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating them in the oven to regain that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes,until it’s warm and crispy again.
Now you’re all set to serve and store your Southern Fried Chicken like a pro! Enjoy every crispy, juicy bite!
Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Southern Fried Chicken
Cooking fried chicken can be a bit tricky, but don’t worry! I’ve got some handy notes and tips to help you out. Let’s make sure your chicken turns out absolutely delicious!
Common Issues & Solutions:
- Chicken Not Crispy: If your chicken isn’t getting that beautiful golden color, your oil might not be hot enough. A good way to test is to sprinkle a little flour into the oil. If it sizzles right away, you’re ready to fry!
- Overcooked or Undercooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You want it to reach 160°F (70°C).If the outside is browning too quickly, lower the heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Flour Coating Not Sticking: If the flour isn’t sticking, make sure the chicken is well-coated in egg before dredging in the flour. This step is key to achieving that crunchy coating!
Extra Tips:
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to mix up the seasonings in the flour for a fun twist! Try adding paprika for some smokiness or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Marinating Chicken: If you have time, marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours or overnight can definitely help tenderize the meat and add flavor.Just be sure to let the excess buttermilk drip off before coating it in flour.
With these tips in hand, your ready to tackle any challenges that come your way while making this Southern Fried Chicken. enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite, and don’t forget to share with friends and family! Happy cooking!