Classic Southern Fried Chicken with a Golden Crispy Crust

Directions

  1. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Shake to mix well.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the bag a few at a time. Seal the bag and shake until each piece is thoroughly coated with the flour mixture.
  3. In a large, heavy skillet or Dutch oven, pour enough vegetable oil to cover 1–2 inches of the pan. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
  4. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  5. Fry the chicken for 10–15 minutes per side, adjusting the heat as needed, until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: 45–55 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Difficulty Level: Medium

Variations & Substitutions

  • For extra crispy chicken, double-dip the pieces: coat in flour, dip in buttermilk, then coat again before frying.
  • Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy Southern kick.
  • Use skinless chicken for a slightly lighter version, but the crust may not be as rich.

Serving Suggestions

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