Southern Parmesan Fried Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: Southern

Southern Parmesan Fried Chicken offers crispy, flavorful coating with Parmesan and spices, perfect for hearty meals and gatherings, appealing to fans of savory comfort food.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. flour
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • 1 tsp. pepper
  • 1 c. bread crumbs
  • 2 c. Parmesan cheese
  • 2 to 4 eggs

Instructions

  1. Add and mix all dry ingredients together: flour, paprika, and black pepper.
  2. Beat eggs and add a little milk.
  3. Dip chicken in the egg and milk mixture, then cover with the dry mixture.
  4. Redip the chicken in the egg and milk mixture, then coat again with the dry mixture.
  5. Fry the chicken in oil on the stove and cook until done.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra crispy coating, use panko bread crumbs instead of regular ones. You can also add herbs like thyme or oregano to the dry mix for added flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try using whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as a substitute. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Southern Parmesan Fried Chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It also pairs beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce or honey for a sweet contrast. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad on the side.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Southern Parmesan Fried Chicken contains roughly 796 calories, with 32g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (331% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (178% of the Daily Value), and iron (173% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 482mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

796 kcal 40% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 32.4g 65% DV
Total Fat 19.4g 25% DV
Carbs 154.5g 56% DV
Fiber 49.8g 100% DV
Sugar 18g 36% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 482.3mg 21% DV
Potassium 3219.7mg 69% DV
Cholesterol 3.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2977.3mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 100.3mg 100% DV
Calcium 405mg 31% DV
Iron 31.2mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just keep in mind that breasts may cook faster, so adjust your frying time accordingly to avoid drying them out. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

What type of oil is best for frying this chicken?

Vegetable oil or canola oil are great choices for frying, as they have high smoke points and neutral flavors. You can also use peanut oil for a slightly nutty taste, but avoid using olive oil, which has a lower smoke point and can burn easily.

Can I make the coating ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dry mixture of flour, cheese, and spices ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Just remember to mix it well before using, as the ingredients may settle.

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).

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