PERFECT SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN

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Here’s a recipe for Perfect Southern Fried Chicken:

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or use your preferred chicken parts)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
  2. Prepare the breading: In a shallow dish or pie plate, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
  3. Coat the chicken: Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, coating it thoroughly on all sides. Shake off any excess flour.
  4. Rest the chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let them rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the breading to set. This helps create a crispy crust when fried.
  5. Heat the oil: Meanwhile, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, aiming for around 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry the chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for white meat and 175°F (80°C) for dark meat.
  7. Drain and serve: Once cooked, use tongs to transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet or a plate lined with paper towels. This allows any excess oil to drain off and helps keep the chicken crispy. Serve the Perfect Southern Fried Chicken hot, with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, or cornbread.

Enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of this Perfect Southern Fried Chicken with your loved ones! It’s sure to become a family favorite.

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