Southern Fried Chicken

Just made the best fried chicken ever, thanks to Paula Deen! Perfectly crispy and packed with flavor. My family loved it so much I had to make more the next day. Don’t worry about the hot sauce—it’s not too spicy. Goodbye, KFC!

Steps for Southern Fried Chicken

Here's a step-by-step instructions for making Southern Fried Chicken:

1. Heat peanut oil in a large deep pot to 350°F (do not fill more than half full--you don't want a hot-oil spill-over accident!).
2. For sauce mixture: in a medium-sized bowl, beat the eggs with the water.
3. Add hot sauce and whisk together well.
4. Pour this mixture into a large plastic zip-top bag.
5. For seasoning mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
6. For dredging mixture: In a another bowl, mix flour, baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
7. Rinse and pat dry chicken pieces with a paper towel.
8. Cut breast pieces in half across ribs.
9. Sprinkle chicken generously on both sides with seasoning blend.
10. Drop a few chicken pieces of chicken into bag of sauce mixture and squish around to coat thoroughly.
11. One piece at a time, roll chicken in flour mixture and drop into hot oil.
12. Don't crowd chicken pieces--I cook about half the chicken at a time.
13. Fry chicken until brown and crisp.
14. Drain on paper toweling.
15. Dark meat will take about 14 minutes, white meat about 10 minutes.
16. Remember smaller pieces cook faster than the larger ones.
17. You can check for doneness by piercing to the bone in the thickest part with a fork.
18. If the juices run clear, it is done.

Why you'll love Southern Fried Chicken

• Rich Flavor Profile: Southern Fried Chicken is renowned for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, tender meat. The marinade and seasoning blend often includes spices like paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper, creating a savory flavor that tantalizes the taste buds. This rich flavor makes it a comfort food favorite, appealing to a wide range of palates.
• Cultural Heritage: This dish is deeply rooted in Southern U.S. culture and history, reflecting the culinary traditions of African American communities. It has become a symbol of Southern hospitality and is often served at gatherings, celebrations, and family meals, fostering a sense of connection and shared experience among people.
• Versatile Serving Options: Southern Fried Chicken can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Whether served as a main course with sides like coleslaw and cornbread or as part of a picnic spread, its adaptability allows it to shine in both casual and formal settings. Additionally, it can be paired with a range of sauces to enhance its flavor further.