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Southern Buttermilk Fried Chicken

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This Southern buttermilk fried chicken is crispy, golden, and flavorful. The tangy buttermilk brine tenderizes the meat while the seasoned dredge creates an irresistible crunchy crust, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

  • 5 cups buttermilk
  • 3 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
  • 10 pieces chicken parts (breasts, thighs, drumsticks, wings)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup cornstarch
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or dried thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • Flaky salt, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic, thyme, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Submerge chicken pieces in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Remove chicken from brine, letting excess drip off, and coat thoroughly in the dredge mixture.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry chicken in batches, without overcrowding, until golden brown and crispy, about 12–15 minutes depending on size.
  7. Transfer chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet and sprinkle with flaky salt before serving.

Notes

  • Add cayenne pepper to the dredge for extra heat.
  • For a thicker crust, dip chicken back into buttermilk and dredge again.
  • Use peanut or canola oil for high-heat frying.
  • Brining overnight gives the juiciest, most flavorful results.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, biscuits, or coleslaw for a classic Southern meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/southern-buttermilk-fried-chicken/