Traditional Southern Fried Chicken Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a Southern style fried chicken—crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. This traditional Southern fried chicken recipe brings that golden, crunchy goodness right to your kitchen, just like Grandma used to make. Whether you’re preparing a weekend feast or looking for fried chicken dinner ideas, this dish never disappoints.
Rooted in generations of cooking heritage, this is more than just comfort food—it’s a classic. So if you’re searching for the best Southern fried chicken recipe, you’ve found it.
Why This Is the Best Southern Fried Chicken
When we talk about old fashioned country fried chicken, we’re talking about a recipe that’s stood the test of time. Made with simple ingredients, love, and the right technique, this chicken delivers that iconic crackle with every bite.
Here’s why it’s a keeper:
- Crispy, golden crust with flavorful spices
- Juicy, tender meat thanks to a simple buttermilk marinade
- Made in a cast iron skillet for that classic Southern crisp
- Perfect for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or backyard gatherings
- Options for both healthy Southern fried chicken and baked Southern fried chicken versions
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Southern fried chicken recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (or 3–4 lbs chicken parts)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional, for marinade)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying (peanut or canola preferred)
How to Make Traditional Southern Fried Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk and hot sauce (if using) for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This tenderizes the meat and adds flavor.
2. Prepare the Dredge
In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and all the seasonings. This will create the flavorful, crispy coating.
3. Dredge the Chicken
Remove chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Coat each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Let it rest on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes to help the coating stick better.
4. Fry to Perfection
Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a cast iron skillet to 325–350°F (165–175°C). Fry chicken in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C). This usually takes 12–15 minutes per batch.
5. Drain and Serve
Remove fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.
Baked Southern Fried Chicken Option (Healthier!)
Want a healthy Southern fried chicken version? Try this:
- Marinate and dredge chicken as usual.
- Place chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Spray lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway.
You’ll still get a satisfying crunch with far less oil.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a cast iron skillet: Nothing beats the even heat and crispy finish of cast iron.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches for consistent crispiness.
- Let the coating rest: After dredging, a short rest helps the breading stick and crisp better.
- Season your flour: The crust is where the flavor is!
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs beautifully with all the classic Southern sides:
- Mashed potatoes and gravy
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Collard greens or green beans
- Mac and cheese
- Cornbread or hushpuppies
It also fits perfectly into any list of fried chicken dinner ideas, whether you’re cooking for family or hosting guests.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving true comfort food, this traditional Southern fried chicken recipe delivers in every way. Whether fried in a cast iron skillet for that authentic flavor or baked for a lighter touch, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. This is one of the best Southern fried chicken recipes you’ll ever try—crispy, juicy, and packed with that old-school flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Add it to your list of must-try Southern style fried chicken meals. Whether you’re going classic or going healthy, this dish is a celebration of Southern tradition on a plate.
