Classic Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

Are you in need of a soul-warming dish that never fails to delight? Look no further than this tantalizing Southern Fried Chicken recipe!

Ingredients:

• 12 pieces of chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of coarse black pepper
• 2 teaspoons of coarse sea salt
• ½ teaspoon of onion powder
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups of buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Begin by heating at least 3 inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or deep cast iron skillet until it reaches 350°F. The key is to ensure the oil is deep enough to fully cover the chicken pieces for even cooking.
2. While the oil is heating, set up your dredging station. In one bowl, pour the buttermilk. In another bowl, combine the smoked paprika, black pepper, sea salt, onion powder, and flour. Whisk the mixture until evenly combined.
3. Now, it’s time to batter the chicken. Dip each piece first into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then into the buttermilk, and finally back into the flour mixture for a second coating. Place the battered chicken pieces on a separate plate.
4. Once the oil reaches 350°F, carefully place several pieces of battered chicken into the hot oil. Cook for approximately 12 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking if necessary to ensure even browning. The chicken is ready when it turns a deep golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried chicken from the oil and place it on a paper bag or paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Repeat the frying process in batches until all the chicken is cooked.
6. Serve your crispy, golden Southern Fried Chicken hot and enjoy every flavorful bite!