Description
Classic Southern Chicken Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Batter is a dish that combines the best parts of Southern fried chicken and country cooking. Tender chicken with a perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating, it’s comfort food at its best and a meal that brings family and friends together around the table. Whether you grew up in the South or are just discovering this iconic dish, the first bite will take you back to simpler times.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For the Buttermilk Batter:
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
For Frying:
- 2–3 cups vegetable oil (as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the boneless chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside.
- Make the Buttermilk Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, and return it to the flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Tip: Double-dipping in the flour creates a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet or cast-iron pan, filling it about 1 inch deep.
- Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Safety Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as it lowers the oil temperature and affects the crispiness.
- Serve Hot and Enjoy:
- Serve your Classic Southern Chicken Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Batter hot, with your favorite sides and a generous drizzle of country gravy.
Notes
- Use Buttermilk: The acidity in buttermilk breaks down the proteins, making the chicken tender. It also infuses the chicken with a subtle tangy flavor and helps the batter stick.
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F for crispy, golden chicken.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Season every step—chicken, batter, and flour.
- Let it Rest: Allow the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack for a few minutes to keep it crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern