Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

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Introduction

Who doesn’t love a good crispy fried chicken recipe? It’s a classic comfort food that brings back memories of family gatherings and Sunday dinners. But what if I told you that you could have all the flavor and crunch of traditional fried chicken, but with a healthier twist?

Introducing our delicious and easy-to-follow Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe. This dish not only satisfies your cravings for indulgent fried chicken, but it also packs a nutritional punch. By using a unique blend of spices and a few simple swaps, we’ve managed to create a guilt-free version of this Southern staple that’s just as mouthwatering as the original.

Ingredients

To make our Crispy Southern Fried Chicken, you’ll need:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Olive oil or avocado oil for frying

Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your personal taste preferences. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper, or for a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk.

Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the chicken to marinate.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, coating them evenly on all sides.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat about 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat to 350°F.
Working in batches, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve the Crispy Southern Fried Chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 4 oz
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 530mg
Total Carbohydrates: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this recipe even healthier, you can try the following substitutions:

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more tender and juicy result.
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour for a low-carb option.
Replace the buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk or low-fat yogurt.
Bake the breaded chicken instead of frying for a lower-fat version.

Serving Suggestions

Our Crispy Southern Fried Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Fluffy biscuits or cornbread
A fresh green salad or coleslaw
Roasted vegetables like sweet potato fries or brussels sprouts

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not allowing the chicken to marinate in the buttermilk long enough: This crucial step helps tenderize the meat and ensures a juicy, flavorful result.
Overcrowding the pan during frying: Be sure to fry the chicken in batches to maintain the proper oil temperature and prevent the pieces from steaming instead of crisping up.
Not letting the oil reach the proper temperature: Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is between 350-375°F for optimal crispiness.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover Crispy Southern Fried Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a 400°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

You can also prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and freeze it for longer-term storage. Simply place the breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, fry the frozen chicken directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Crispy, flavorful, and healthier than the traditional version – our Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe is a game-changer. By incorporating whole wheat flour, a blend of spices, and a few simple swaps, we’ve managed to create a fried chicken dish that’s just as satisfying as the original, but with a nutritional boost.

Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to share your photos and tag us on social media. Bon appétit!

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will result in a more tender and juicy final dish.

Q: How can I make the chicken extra crispy?
A: To achieve maximum crispiness, make sure to let the oil reach the proper temperature (350-375°F) before frying, and fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature.

Q: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying. Place the breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and crispy.