Southern fried chicken is a beloved classic that brings together crispy, golden-brown chicken and a rich, creamy gravy. With its seasoned buttermilk marinade, perfectly seasoned flour coating, and deep-fried goodness, this dish will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Paired with creamy gravy for an extra indulgent touch, this Southern fried chicken is perfect for any family meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions:
- Place chicken pieces in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- In a separate bowl, mix together flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F.
- Dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes per batch.
- Remove chicken from oil and let drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve the fried chicken with creamy gravy on the side.
Servings and Timing:
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 1 hour (for marinating)
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations:
- Spicy Fried Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Air Fried Chicken: For a healthier alternative, use an air fryer to cook the chicken, which reduces the amount of oil needed.
- Herbed Gravy: Add a pinch of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the creamy gravy for a more aromatic flavor.
- Buttermilk Biscuits: Serve the fried chicken with homemade buttermilk biscuits instead of gravy for a traditional Southern meal.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in an air fryer for a few minutes to get the coating crispy again.
10 FAQs:
- Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
- Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- What type of oil is best for frying chicken?
- Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil are all great options for frying chicken due to their high smoke points.
- Can I use boneless chicken pieces?
- Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, though cooking times will be shorter.
- How do I know when the chicken is done frying?
- The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside is golden brown.
- Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
- Yes, the gravy can be made in advance and reheated before serving.
- What should I serve with Southern fried chicken?
- Southern fried chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, cornbread, coleslaw, or greens.
- Can I freeze fried chicken?
- Yes, you can freeze fried chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat in the oven.
- How do I get the chicken extra crispy?
- To achieve extra crispiness, double-dip the chicken pieces in the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
- Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
- Yes, you can add hot sauce to the buttermilk or sprinkle cayenne pepper over the chicken for added heat.
- Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?
- Yes, a deep fryer works great for frying chicken. Just make sure to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for optimal results.
Conclusion:
Southern Fried Chicken with Creamy Gravy is a timeless, indulgent dish that will bring comfort and joy to any meal. With its crispy golden coating and flavorful marinade, paired with a velvety gravy, this dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply a satisfying meal. Enjoy the classic Southern flavors that are sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!