Simple Southern Fried Chicken
Crispy, flavorful Southern fried chicken with a seasoned crust, perfect for comfort food lovers and gatherings, offering a classic taste with crunchy texture and juicy meat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with seasoned salt and garlic.
- Roll chicken in flour until covered.
- Shake off excess flour.
- Sprinkle with additional seasonings.
- Fry chicken in vegetable oil in a frying pan.
- Begin with oil very hot and then reduce the heat later.
- Cook until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, sealing in the juices and flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before seasoning and coating in flour. If you don't have seasoned salt, a mix of regular salt and paprika can work as a substitute. Be sure to maintain the oil temperature; too low will result in greasy chicken, while too high can burn the coating. Always use a thermometer to check the oil's heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious southern fried chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Carol'S Easy Chicken Pot Pie for a hearty dinner. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad on the side to balance the richness of the chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the crispiness of the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Southern Fried Chicken contains roughly 16 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 511mg per serving (22% 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
How can I make the fried chicken extra crispy?
To achieve an extra crispy texture, double-dip the chicken by first coating it in flour, then dipping it in an egg wash, and finally coating it in flour again. This layering creates a thicker crust that crisps up beautifully when fried.
Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bone-in chicken pieces are traditional, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since boneless cuts may cook faster.
What dipping sauces go well with fried chicken?
Fried chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving it with honey, hot sauce, or a classic ranch dressing. For a twist, try a spicy aioli or a tangy barbecue sauce to enhance the flavors.
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).