Perfect Fried Chicken: 10 Secrets to Crispy, Juicy Bliss

Unlock the secrets to the crispiest, juiciest fried chicken you’ve ever tasted! We’ll take you through 10 simple steps, from selecting the perfect chicken to mastering the frying technique that will elevate your fried chicken game to new heights. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic Southern comfort food done right.

A platter of Southern fried chicken.Photo bySouthern Food and Fun

Secret #1: Start with the Best

Choose a small, organic chicken and have your butcher cut it up for you. The smaller the chicken, the more tender and flavorful the meat will be.

Secret #2: Brine for Flavor

Optional: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk or pickle juice overnight. This step will make the chicken extra juicy and tender and help infuse it with flavor.

Chicken brining in a bowl of salted buttermilk.Photo bySouthern Food and Fun

Secret #3: Air Dry for Crispness

Pat the chicken dry and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before frying. This will help the skin to crisp up nicely.

Secret #4: Double Dip for a Thicker Crust

If you want a thicker crust, dip the chicken pieces in buttermilk or egg, then dredge them in flour. This double-dipping method will create a thick, crispy crust that will stay put during frying.

Secret #5: Spice It Up

While traditional Southern fried chicken uses salt and pepper as the seasoning, you can add your favorite seasonings to the flour, such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. The flour is your canvas for flavor, so get creative!

Secret #6: Dredge and Rest

Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture again, coating it evenly. Then, let it rest for a few minutes before frying. This will help the crust to adhere to the chicken and prevent it from falling off during frying.

Secret #7: Heat the Oil

Add oil with a high smoke point (peanut oil is a good choice) to a cast iron skillet and heat it over medium-high heat to 350 degrees F. The right oil and temperature are key to achieving that perfect golden brown crust.

Secret #8: Fry to Perfection

Fry the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at a steady 350 degrees F. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (165 degrees F internal temperature).

Chicken frying in a cast iron skillet.Photo bySouthern Food and Fun

Secret #9: Drain and Serve

Drain the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, not a plate lined with paper towels. Serve hot, or let it cool to room temperature for a picnic or outdoor gathering.

Secret #10: Enjoy!

Your crispy, juicy, perfectly seasoned fried chicken is ready to be devoured!

Get the full recipe at Southern Food and Fun.