Johnie'S Southern Fried Chicken
Southern fried chicken with crispy, golden coating, flavorful and juicy inside, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners seeking classic American flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add salt and pepper to the corn meal.
- Put the chicken pieces into the corn meal in a brown paper bag and shake to coat evenly.
- Heat Crisco in a large iron skillet until hot.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces in the skillet carefully.
- Turn the chicken once during frying, then reduce heat to medium-low.
- Fry the chicken for 45 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning as needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crispy coating, let the coated chicken rest for 15-20 minutes before frying. If you don’t have Crisco, vegetable oil or peanut oil can be good alternatives. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken to avoid sogginess. For a flavor boost, consider adding your favorite spices to the cornmeal or using buttermilk to marinate the chicken beforehand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Johnie's Southern Fried Chicken hot with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or macaroni salad. For a complete meal, pair it with Easy Baked Chicken And Potato Dinner For Two to balance flavors. Don't forget a drizzle of hot sauce or a side of pickles for an extra kick!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, which helps retain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnie'S Southern Fried Chicken contains roughly 15 calories, with 3g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1899mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
While skinless chicken can be used, it won't achieve the same crispy texture as skin-on pieces. The skin helps lock in moisture and provides a crunchy layer. If you prefer skinless, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk to enhance flavor and tenderness.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the coating should be golden brown and crispy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken by coating it in cornmeal and refrigerating it for a few hours before frying. This allows the coating to adhere better. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to fry the chicken just before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).