Are you ready for some delicious Southern Fried Chicken? I can’t wait to share my favorite recipe with you! This fried chicken is crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Grab your apron and let’s make magic happen in the kitchen together!

Cook Time: 30

Prep Time: 15

Yields: 4

Calories: 1983

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Southern Fried Chicken

Let’s gather the ingredients that will turn ordinary chicken into a crispy, golden delight! For this scrumptious Southern Fried Chicken recipe, you’ll need:

2 large eggs: These help create a crispy coating.
1½ cups all-purpose flour: The base for our crunchy breading.
1 tablespoon rubbed sage: This adds a marvelous herbal flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the overall taste.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper: A must for that classic Southern kick.
½ teaspoon onion powder: It brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note.
2 cups vegetable oil: This is for frying, giving our chicken that irresistible crunch.
4 chicken leg quarters: You can use thighs and drumsticks, which stay juicy and tender during frying.

Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking.Fresh ingredients make all the difference. I like using organic chicken when I can, as it tends to be more flavorful.

Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences! Want it a bit spicier? Toss in some cayenne pepper to the flour mixture. Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to preparing our chicken for the frying adventure!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Southern Fried Chicken

Now, let’s dive into the cooking process that will transform those simple ingredients into mouthwatering Southern Fried Chicken!

Beat the Eggs: In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly until they are well combined. this will help the flour stick to the chicken.

Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, rubbed sage, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mixing these spices with the flour is key to getting that flavorful crust.

Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet until it’s about 2 inches deep.Heat the oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough for frying, around 350°F (175°C).

coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the eggs, letting any excess drip off, then dredge it in the seasoned flour. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. This step is crucial for that satisfying crunch.

fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry them on the first side until they are golden brown, about 10 minutes. Then,flip them over and reduce the heat to medium. Cook the other side for another 20 minutes,or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Drain and serve: Onc the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot and enjoy the crunchy,juicy goodness!

And there you have it! Follow these steps,and you’ll have southern Fried Chicken that’s irresistible and sure to impress. don’t forget to pair it with your favorite dipping sauce, like homemade ranch or honey mustard, for the perfect finishing touch. Happy frying!

cindyd's somewhat southern fried chicken

Serving and Storage Information for Southern Fried Chicken

When it comes to serving Southern Fried Chicken,the possibilities are endless! This recipe yields about 4 generous servings,perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. I love serving it alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread that complement the savory flavors of the chicken. Don’t forget to drizzle on some homemade honey mustard or ranch dressing for an extra kick!

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate: If you have leftovers (though it’s hard not to finish it all!), allow the chicken to cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage,you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for about 3 months. When you’re ready to eat,thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Reheating: To maintain its crunch,preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through,ensuring to flip halfway.

Serve your fried chicken with confidence, knowing it can be enjoyed over multiple meals while remaining delicious!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Southern Fried chicken

Making perfect Southern Fried Chicken might come with a few challenges, but there are some handy notes to make your cooking experiance smoother. here are a few tips and tricks I’ve found helpful:

Oil Temperature: It’s crucial to make sure your frying oil is hot enough. If it’s too cool, your chicken will absorb excess grease and won’t be crispy. Use a candy thermometer to check that the oil stays around 350°F (175°C).This temperature ensures a beautifully fried exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.

Flour Coating: For an even crunch, don’t rush the dredging process. Make sure each piece of chicken is fully coated in flour after dipping in the egg wash. If you want extra crunch, do a double dip – repeat the egg and flour step for an additional coating.

Avoid Crowding: Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan.Placing too many pieces in at once can drop the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken instead of that sought-after crispiness.

adjusting Spices: Feel free to tweak the spice blend to suit your preferences! if you like a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or even some paprika for a smoky flavor.

Cooking Time: If you’re using different cuts of chicken, cooking times may vary. Always rely on a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

With these tips in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any minor hiccups that might arise in your frying adventure. enjoy the process and savor every bite of your delicious southern Fried Chicken!