
Ingredients
For the Dry Mix:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Wet Batter (optional for extra crunch):
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk or buttermilk
Chicken:
- 8–10 pieces of chicken (mix of drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or wings)
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. - Make the Dry Mix:
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well. - Make the Wet Batter (optional):
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk (or buttermilk) until smooth. - Coat the Chicken:
- Without Wet Batter: Simply dredge chicken pieces in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat evenly.
- With Wet Batter (extra crunch): Dip chicken in the egg mixture first, then dredge in the flour mixture. Press to adhere well. For an ultra-crispy crust, you can double-dip: flour → egg → flour.
- Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet, Dutch oven, or deep fryer, heat 2–3 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure it’s hot enough—too cold and the chicken will be greasy, too hot and it will burn. - Fry the Chicken:
Fry chicken in batches, being careful not to crowd the pan.
- Drumsticks & thighs: 12–15 minutes
- Breasts: 10–12 minutes
- Wings: 8–10 minutes
Turn occasionally for even browning. Use a meat thermometer if possible; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) inside.
- Drain & Rest:
Remove chicken and let it rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet or on paper towels for a few minutes. This keeps it crispy. - Serve & Enjoy:
Serve hot with your favorite sides—mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for the ultimate Southern experience.
Pro Tips for Maximum Crunch & Flavor:
- Brine the chicken in saltwater or buttermilk for 1–4 hours before frying for juicier meat.
- Season the flour generously—you want that flavor in every bite.
- Don’t skip the optional wet batter if you like the extra thick, crunchy crust.
- Keep fried chicken warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while frying in batches.