Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
southern fried chicken

Southern Fried Chicken: A Crispy Journey Through Tradition and Taste

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, this Southern Fried Chicken recipe is a flavorful classic seasoned to perfection and fried until golden.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: Serves 4–6 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken pieces (thighs, legs, or drumsticks)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups plain yogurt + 1 tbsp lemon juice (marinade)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (sunflower, peanut, or canola)

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken in yogurt and lemon juice for 6+ hours or overnight.
  2. Mix flour with spices in a shallow bowl.
  3. Pat dry chicken, then dredge in seasoned flour until fully coated.
  4. Heat oil to 325–350°F (163–177°C) in a deep skillet or fryer.
  5. Fry chicken in batches for 12–15 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
  6. Rest on a wire rack to preserve crispiness.
  7. Serve with your favorite Southern side dishes!
  • Author: Norah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Southern American

Keywords: Southern Fried Chicken, crispy chicken recipe, homemade fried chicken, classic comfort food, dairy marinade chicken