Extra Crispy Southern Style Fried Chicken

Finger-Lickin’ Good: The Ultimate Extra Crispy Southern Style Fried Chicken!

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of the South with our irresistible Extra Crispy Southern Style Fried Chicken recipe. This dish promises a perfect balance of juicy, tender meat encased in a gloriously crunchy, golden-brown crust that’ll have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Imagine the satisfying crackle as you bite into a piece of this perfectly seasoned chicken, the crispy exterior giving way to succulent meat that practically melts in your mouth. The aroma of herbs and spices wafting through your kitchen will transport you straight to a cozy Southern porch on a warm summer evening.

While fried chicken has become a global favorite, its roots run deep in Southern American cuisine. This recipe pays homage to those traditions while adding a modern twist for extra crispiness. Pair it with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, fluffy biscuits, or mac and cheese for a truly indulgent Southern feast. And don’t forget a tall glass of sweet tea to wash it all down!

Extra Crispy Southern Style Fried Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

4 pounds chicken pieces bone-in and skin-on

2 cups buttermilk

2 tablespoons hot sauce

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

2 teaspoons dried thyme

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 teaspoons black pepper

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2. In another large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

3. Remove chicken from buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.

4. Double-dip the chicken by returning it to the buttermilk mixture, then dredging in flour again for extra crispiness.

5. Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).

6. Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 12-15 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Remove chicken with tongs and place on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

8. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch.

3. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Work in batches if necessary, keeping cooked chicken warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven.

Notes:

• For extra flavor, add herbs like rosemary or sage to the flour mixture.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 6 oz or 170g)

Calories: 420

Total Fat: 22g

Saturated Fat: 6g

Cholesterol: 115mg

Sodium: 520mg

Total Carbohydrates: 23g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Protein: 32g

Other Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 4 hours to overnight for marinating)

Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Equipment: Large bowls, deep skillet or Dutch oven, tongs, wire rack, baking sheet, meat thermometer

Estimated cost per serving: $2.50

Total cost (8 servings): $20

In Conclusion, Extra Crispy Southern Style Fried Chicken

In conclusion, this Extra Crispy Southern Style Fried Chicken recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior. Remember to adjust cooking times as needed, especially when using different chicken cuts or cooking methods.

Get more perfect fried food ideas here.