Southern style buttermilk fried chicken –Are you ready to indulge in a deliciously crispy dish that brings comfort to any table? This Southern-style buttermilk fried chicken recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Flaunting a crunchy exterior and juicy, tender meat, this fried chicken is a classic that never goes out of style. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to create this mouthwatering meal!
Southern-Style Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Get ready to savor each delightful bite of this crispy buttermilk fried chicken. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply when you’re craving something hearty, follow along!

Ingredients
- 4 cups buttermilk
- 8 pieces of chicken (legs and thighs are great)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This will make the chicken tender and flavorful.
- In another bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoned flour gives your chicken its crunchy coating.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small amount of the flour mixture; it should sizzle immediately.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and shake off any excess moisture. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, making sure it is well-coated. Gently shake off the excess flour before placing it into the hot oil.
- Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook for about 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal flavor and crunch. Enjoy your homemade Southern-style buttermilk fried chicken with your favorite sides!
Enjoy this classic dish with some hearty sides like coleslaw or cornbread, and watch as it brings everyone to the table. Happy cooking!