Southern Belle Fried Chicken Crispy Juicy Perfection

Q: What's the best oil to use for frying chicken? I only have olive oil, is that okay?

While olive oil *can* technically be used, it's not the best choice for frying chicken due to its lower smoke point. Vegetable oil, peanut oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil are all better options. They have a higher smoke point, meaning they can withstand the high heat needed for frying without burning or imparting a bad flavour to your chicken.

Southern Fried Chicken Recipe Crispy Juicy Easy

By Amara Vitalis August 20, 2025

4.67 (30 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some proper Southern Fried Chicken Recipe , eh? What if I told you, you can make it better than your local takeaway? This fried chicken recipe is pure comfort food heaven, guaranteed crispy and juicy.

Brief Overview

Originating from the Southern US, fried chicken is a staple. This easy fried chicken recipe is moderately difficult but well worth it.

It will take roughly 2- 8 hours including marinating time. This recipe makes 6 portions.

Main Benefits

This homemade fried chicken recipe boasts a surprisingly high protein content. Perfect for Sunday lunch with the fam, or a cheeky mid-week treat.

What makes this crispy fried chicken in oil so special is the double dredge technique.

Why This Fried Chicken Recipe Rocks

Honestly, who doesn’t love crispy fried chicken ? We're talking about the ultimate comfort food. This isn't just any old fried chicken recipe .

It’s Southern Belle Fried Chicken : Crispy , Juicy Perfection.

I remember trying to perfect my best fried chicken recipe for ages. So many soggy bottoms. The secret? A proper buttermilk brine and that double dredge, mate!

The Ingredients for Crispy Goodness

Alright, let's gather the troops. You'll need chicken, obviously. About 3-4 lbs, cut into 8 pieces. Then, the magic happens with buttermilk. You want about 950ml for the brine.

Don't skimp on the spices either. Kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of hot sauce, if you're feeling brave.

Now, for the dredge. Flour is your base. About 360g. Cornstarch (cornflour to us Brits), then the same spice mix as before, plus dried thyme and a pinch of cayenne.

Trust me, that cayenne makes a difference.

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this best fried chicken recipe . Trust me; this fried chicken recipe is worth the effort.

I want you to easily create a juicy fried chicken recipe . Let's get you started on that amazing journey!

Ingredients & Equipment: The Foundation of Crispy Goodness

Main Ingredients for Our Fried Chicken Recipe

Here’s what you'll need for my Southern Belle Fried Chicken: Crispy, Juicy Perfection .

Chicken: 1 (1.5-2kg) whole chicken cut into 8 pieces. (US: 3-4 lbs). Fresh chicken makes all the difference. Honestly, splurge for the good stuff!
Buttermilk: 4 cups (950 ml) . This is your secret weapon! It tenderizes and adds flavor.
Kosher Salt: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . It enhances the flavour.
Black Pepper: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) , freshly ground. Freshly ground is key, you know?
Paprika: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Gives it that classic color and taste.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) each. Trust me.
Hot Sauce: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) (optional). For that subtle kick!
All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups (360g) .
Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (24g) (Cornflour, UK). This is my golden trick to ensure the crispy fried chicken in oil that you love.
Salt & Pepper (again!): 2 tablespoons (30 ml) and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) .
Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Dried Thyme: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) each.
Cayenne Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) (optional). More heat if you dare.
Vegetable or Peanut Oil: 4 cups (950 ml) (enough to reach halfway up the chicken).

Seasoning Notes

We're aiming for a harmonious blend of flavors, not just salt and pepper. These spices will elevate your homemade fried chicken .

The paprika adds smokiness. Garlic and onion powder give that savory base. Thyme brings that earthy aroma. You can sub dried oregano if that is all you have.

Cayenne? That's your call. You'll be making that double dredged fried chicken and these spices will add layers of flavour that is unforgettable.

Equipment Needed

Large Bowl: For marinating.
Shallow Dish: For dredging.
Cast Iron Skillet or Deep Fryer: A must!
Tongs: For turning chicken without poking it.
Instant Read Thermometer: CRUCIAL for making sure the chicken reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . No one wants dodgy chicken.
Wire Rack: For draining excess oil.

Now, some people don't have a skillet. A large, heavy bottomed pot works too. For dredging, a baking sheet will do in a pinch.

But honestly, a cast iron skillet is a worthwhile investment for your kitchen. This easy fried chicken recipe can be made with a minimum of equipment.

Cooking Method

Prep Steps for Killer Fried Chicken Recipe

Alright, let's get this show on the road! First, the mise en place is key. It is what sets up the basis of a great Best Fried Chicken Recipe .

Get your chicken pieces cut and ready. Measure out all your spices and set up your dredging station. Trust me, organization saves time and sanity.

I know, because I've been there, flapping about like a headless chicken! Speaking of chickens, safety first! Make sure your work surfaces are clean and avoid cross contamination between raw chicken and cooked food.

Nobody wants a dodgy tummy.

step-by-step: Crispy Fried Chicken In Oil

Right, here's how we make some amazing Easy Fried Chicken Recipe :

First, make that buttermilk brine and give it a good whisk!
Next, submerge that chicken in buttermilk. Leave it for at least 2 hours , but overnight is best . Honestly, it makes a huge difference.
Now, prep that dredge. Get the flour, cornstarch, and spices mixed.
Time to dredge! Remove your chicken from the brine. Let the excess drip off. Dredge it in the flour. Then dredge it again!
Heat your oil to 325° F ( 160° C) . A thermometer is your friend here.
Gently add the chicken. Don't overcrowd, or the temperature will drop.
Fry each side for 6- 10 minutes , or until it's golden brown. Remember to make sure to check the temperature. It needs to hit 165° F ( 74° C) .
Finally, remove and rest on a wire rack.

Pro Tips For Your Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

Okay, here are some secrets. For Juicy Fried Chicken Recipe , don't skip that buttermilk soak! It tenderizes the chicken like nobody's business.

One big mistake is overcrowding the pan. It brings down the oil temperature. The chicken ends up soggy, which is the worst.

For a super Crispy Fried Chicken Instructions , try the double dredge method! For a real treat, you could try doing it Double Dredged Fried Chicken style.

Honestly, I am not a fried chicken expert, but I do like sharing good Homemade Fried Chicken . It will make it amazing.

You can make the spice mix ahead of time, too. Oh my gosh, it simplifies everything!

Recipe Notes for Your Best Ever Fried Chicken Recipe

Let's talk about some important bits and bobs for my Best Fried Chicken Recipe ! Honestly, nailing this Southern Fried Chicken Recipe is all about the details.

Fab Serving Suggestions

Right, presentation time! Plating this juicy fried chicken recipe is easy. Try arranging the chicken on a platter with some parsley for colour.

A dollop of coleslaw adds a cool, creamy touch. Chips (that's fries for you Americans!) are always a winner. Drinks wise, sweet tea or ice-cold beer work wonders.

It's all about that American diner vibe, isn't it?

Smart Storage Tips

If you've got leftovers (unlikely!), you need to know how to store them. This Crispy Fried Chicken in Oil is best eaten fresh.

Still, you can refrigerate it for up to three days. Make sure it's in an airtight container, yeah? Freezing isn't ideal as the crust can get soggy.

If you must freeze, wrap each piece individually. Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) to keep it somewhat crispy .

Honestly? Fresh is always best.

Cool Variations for Your Fried Chicken Recipe

Fancy mixing things up? Easy peasy! For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to both the buttermilk and the flour dredge for this easy fried chicken recipe .

Need a gluten-free version? Swap the plain flour for a gluten-free flour blend. I've tried a few, and honestly, they work a treat.

Seasonal swaps? In summer, serve it with grilled corn on the cob. In winter, how about some creamy mashed potatoes?

Nutrition Nitty Gritty

Alright, let's be real. Fried chicken isn't exactly a health food. But hey, everything in moderation, yeah? Each serving clocks in around 550-650 calories.

There is about 40-50g of protein, and 30-40g of fat. Carbs are around 20-30g. This homemade fried chicken gives you a good dose of protein.

The estimated sodium level is 1000-1200mg. Remember, these are just estimates!

So there you have it, my friend. Everything you need for Crispy Fried Chicken Instructions . Don't be scared to experiment and make this Double Dredged Fried Chicken recipe your own.

Go on, get frying. You can easily create your Best Fried Chicken Recipe !!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my fried chicken soggy? No one wants a soggy bottom like in Bake Off!

Soggy fried chicken usually boils down to oil temperature. If your oil isn't hot enough (around 325°F or 160°C), the chicken will absorb too much oil instead of getting crispy. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature. Make sure to use a thermometer to check the temp!

How long should I marinate the chicken for this fried chicken recipe?

For the best flavour and juiciness, aim to marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the buttermilk to tenderise the chicken and infuse it with flavour, much like a proper cuppa needs time to brew!

The longer the better, but even a quick 2-hour soak will make a difference.

Can I make this fried chicken recipe spicy? I like a bit of a kick!

Absolutely! To add some heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper to the buttermilk marinade and the flour dredge. You can also add a dash more hot sauce, like Frank's RedHot, to the marinade for an extra layer of flavour.

Adjust the amount to your spice preference remember, a little goes a long way, especially with cayenne!

How do I store leftover fried chicken, and how long will it last?

To store leftover fried chicken, let it cool completely and then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in an air fryer to help re-crisp the skin.

Microwaving is fine but don't expect miracles!

What's the best oil to use for frying chicken? I only have olive oil, is that okay?

While olive oil can technically be used, it's not the best choice for frying chicken due to its lower smoke point. Vegetable oil, peanut oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil are all better options.

They have a higher smoke point, meaning they can withstand the high heat needed for frying without burning or imparting a bad flavour to your chicken.

Is this fried chicken recipe healthy?

Let's be honest, fried chicken is a treat, not a health food! This recipe, like most fried chicken recipes, is high in calories, fat, and sodium. You can make it slightly healthier by using skinless chicken pieces and baking it instead of frying but then, is it really fried chicken?

Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.