"I Know You Got Soul" Delicious Southern Fried Chicken Recipe + Video

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There's nothing quite like the comforting, indulgent flavors of a Southern fried chicken recipe. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this classic soul food dish is a staple of Southern cuisine and a favorite of many around the world.

Picture this: succulent chicken pieces, coated in a perfectly seasoned blend of spices, gently caressed by hot oil until their skin becomes a crispy golden treasure. That's right, we're talking about the one and only Southern Fried Chicken, a masterpiece of flavor and tradition that will have you yearning for every succulent bite.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook looking for a new recipe to try, southern fried chicken is a dish that's sure to satisfy. In this blog post, we'll take you step by step through our tried and true southern fried chicken recipe, so you can recreate this mouth-watering dish in your own kitchen.

From the ingredients you'll need to the cooking techniques you'll use, we'll cover everything you need to know to make the perfect batch of southern fried chicken. So, let's get started!

Flavor Back-Story

With this recipe I just wanted to make some good fried chicken. When I think of the best fried chicken I've enjoyed in my lifetime it's my grandma's and that doggon Popeye's in New Orleans near Bourbon Street. All Popeye's ain't created equal; that crunch hit different and the kick of the spicy version is well balanced.

I added hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade to get that slight heat throughout the whole chicken, including both the flesh and the skin. MaDear went heavy on the garlic powder with hers so it's a key ingredient in my spice mix.

The History of Fried Chicken in America

When most people think of Southern fried chicken they think of Kentucky Fried Chicken aka KFC. This is largely due to the popularity garnered by it's enterprise endeavors. However when you dig into things you'll discover that KFC, specifically it's founder Colonel Sanders was highly influenced by African Americans in the South.

Colonel Sanders traveled the South learning the flavors and cooking techniques of frying chickens from African American cooks. Like Jack Daniels Whiskey and Hattie B's Hot Chicken, they all profited from the skills and talents of black originators.

African American cooks had long been masters of the art of frying chicken, infusing the dish with their unique seasonings, techniques, and flavors. Their contributions to Southern cuisine and specifically fried chicken were significant. Colonel Sanders recognized the deliciousness and popularity of their cooking and incorporated those elements into his own recipe.

In fact, it is said that one of the key components of Colonel Sanders' secret blend of 11 herbs and spices, which gives KFC its distinct flavor, was influenced by the African American culinary tradition. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, it is widely believed that African American seasonings and spices played a role in shaping the flavor profile of KFC's fried chicken. This wouldn't be a stretch given the importance of seasoning in black peoples' cooking.

Moreover, African American entrepreneurs and small restaurant owners also played a crucial role in popularizing Southern fried chicken, including establishing their own fried chicken businesses. Their success and influence in the culinary landscape contributed to the wider recognition and acceptance of fried chicken as a beloved American dish.

So, while KFC was not directly created by African Americans, their culinary traditions and contributions to the development of Southern fried chicken undoubtedly had an impact on the flavors and techniques that Colonel Sanders incorporated into his recipe.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with fried chicken)

Southern golden brown fried chicken and Southern without some serious dynamite soul so a bona fide classic soul jam is in order. What, Bobby Byrd you say?! Yes "I Know You Got Soul" is that perfect combination. Bobby ain't gonna make you think of a classic crooner like Otis Redding or Sam Cooke, but the boy pack a lot of soul. There is joy, pain, and a fighting spirit in those vocals.

Ingredients Needed To Make The Best Buttermilk Brined Southern Fried Chicken Recipe

This is your classic black people Southern fried chicken recipe. It's buttermilk brined with a Southern fried chicken seasoning mixture.

• All-purpose Flour - All-purpose flour strikes a balance between tenderness and crispness when used to coat chicken for frying. Its versatility and availability make it the go-to choice for achieving a delicious and golden crust on fried chicken.
• Corn Starch - helps to create an extra crispy and crunchy coating on the chicken. When mixed with flour, it adds a lightness and delicate crispness that enhances the overall texture of the fried chicken
• Buttermilk - Soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk before coating them to help tenderize the meat and add tanginess.
• Hot Sauce - Add a splash of hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for an extra kick of flavor.
• Kosher Salt
• Smoked Paprika
• Cayenne Pepper
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Dried Thyme
• Vodka -The addition of vodka to the batter helps create a lighter and crispier texture. Vodka evaporates quickly during frying, leaving behind tiny air pockets that contribute to a more delicate and crisp crust.
• Water
• Peanut oil - Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point for frying the chicken.

How To Fry Chicken (step by step)

Make The Buttermilk Marinade

Place the buttermilk in a large bowl. Add the hot sauce place a teaspoon of salt. Mix well then add the chicken pieces. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture, cover, and refrigerate at least an hour, but preferably overnight.

Prepare the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the fridge and rinse. Reserve a few teaspoons of the marinade. Allow the chicken to reach room temperature. You'll want to cook the chicken evenly.

While the chicken comes to temperature, set up your assembly station.

Make Seasoning Mixture

Place all the dry seasonings in a small bowl or ramekin. Mix well and set aside.

Make The Dredge

In a shallow wide bowl add the cornstarch, flour, and half the spice mix. Mix well and set aside.

Make The Wash or Fried Chicken Batter

In a separate shallow wide bowl mix together the vodka, water, and a quarter cup of the flour mixture. Mix well and set aside.

Pro Tip: Using a regular spoon add a few spoonfuls of the buttermilk marinade to the dredge

Make Cooling Rack

Place a wire rack inside of a rectangular sheet pan or baking sheet.

Fry The Chicken

Pre-heat fryer to 350 degrees F

Place the rinsed chicken in the wash making sure all parts of the chicken gets a coating. Then dip the chicken in the flour mixture. Make sure the chicken is well coated. Shake-off any excess flour.

Add the coated chicken to the hot oil and fry for 7-9 minutes. Remove the chicken and place on the cooling racks. Allow to rest about 30 minutes. While chicken rests heat fryer to 375 degrees.

Add the remaining chicken pieces back to the fryer and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove back to the cooling rack.

In a medium bowl add about a ½ cup of the hot grease plus the remaining spice seasoning mix. Mix well. Brush the chicken with the seasoned oil and serve the seasoned chicken.

If you go to any black folks establishment for fried chicken the chicken will be served with slices of white bread to soak up all the grease. Sides of pickles, jalapeno peppers, and french fries are also included

What To Serve With Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken is a classic comfort food that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of side dishes. Whether you're looking for something savory, sweet, or a little bit of both, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of our favorite dishes to serve alongside southern fried chicken:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect complement to crispy fried chicken. The rich, buttery flavor of the potatoes pairs well with the savory chicken, and the texture is a great contrast to the crispy skin.
2. Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are a staple of southern cuisine and are the perfect accompaniment to fried chicken. You can serve them plain or with a little bit of honey or jam.
3. Coleslaw: Slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors of fried chicken. Its crisp, tangy texture is the perfect complement to the crunchy chicken skin.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is a classic southern side dish that pairs well with fried chicken. Its comforting, indulgent flavors are a great match for the rich, savory chicken.
5. Collard Greens: Collard greens are a traditional southern side dish that add a healthy dose of greens to your meal. Their slightly bitter flavor pairs well with the savory chicken, and they can be prepared with a variety of seasonings to suit your taste.
6. Fried Okra: Crispy fried okra is a popular Southern side dish. Its unique texture and savory flavor make it a delightful accompaniment to fried chicken.
7. Fried Black eyed Peas: I know to most frying black eyed peas may sound unusual, but it's actually a very flavorful dish
8. Sweet Tea: A glass of sweet tea, a Southern favorite, is a refreshing beverage choice to complement the flavors of the fried chicken. Its sweetness provides a pleasant contrast.
9. Peach Cobbler: A warm and comforting peach cobbler with a buttery crust is a classic Southern dessert that complements the richness of fried chicken. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
10. Pecan Pie: A Southern favorite, pecan pie features a gooey and nutty filling nestled in a flaky crust. Its sweetness and crunchy texture make it a perfect accompaniment to fried chicken.
11. Sweet Potato Pie: Creamy and spiced sweet potato pie, similar to pumpkin pie, offers a delightful balance of sweetness and earthiness. Its velvety texture and warm flavors pair well with fried chicken.
12. Banana Pudding: Creamy banana pudding layered with vanilla wafers and slices of ripe bananas is a classic Southern dessert that is loved by many.

No matter what you choose to serve alongside your southern fried chicken, you're sure to have a delicious and satisfying meal.

Cooking Tips, Considerations, and Substitutions

Southern fried chicken is a classic comfort food that's perfect for any occasion. While the recipe itself is relatively simple, there are a few key tips and considerations to keep in mind to ensure that your fried chicken turns out perfectly every time. Here are some cooking tips, considerations, and substitutions to keep in mind when making southern fried chicken:

1. Use a seasoned flour mixture: The key to crispy, flavorful fried chicken is a well-seasoned flour mixture. Be sure to add plenty of salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your flour mixture for the best results.
2. Let the chicken rest: Once you've coated your chicken in the flour mixture, it's important to let it rest for a few minutes before frying. This allows the flour to adhere to the chicken and ensures that it will be crispy and delicious.
3. Don't overcrowd the pan: When frying your chicken, be sure not to overcrowd the pan. Too many chicken pieces will cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in greasy, soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure that each piece cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
4. Consider a buttermilk marinade: While not necessary, marinating your chicken in buttermilk before coating it in the flour mixture can help to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
5. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be considered safe to eat.
6. Double Fry the chicken: Moisture is the enemy of crunchy chicken! Ample rest after the initial fry allows the surface moisture to drain away. That second fry is like the finishing move. Most of the moisture is gone so it's a flash fry of the dry skin which means a bigger crunch!
7. Use a neutral oil: The best oil for frying chicken is one with a high smoke point and a neutral flavor to allow the chicken's natural flavors to shine. Some excellent options for frying chicken include canola oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil. These oils have high smoke points, which means they can withstand the high heat required for frying without breaking down or imparting a strong taste to the chicken.

Substitutions:

• If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
• For a healthier option, try baking your chicken in the oven instead of frying it.
• In place of a cooling rack you can also drain the cooked chicken on a paper towel lined plate.
• If you don't have a deep fryer, a deep cast iron skillet or even a dutch oven can be used. My grandma always used her trusty cast iron pan for frying chicken.

By following these tips and considering these substitutions, you'll be able to make delicious, crispy southern fried chicken that's sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Making Southern Fried Chicken

Q: What's the best type of chicken to use for southern fried chicken?

A: For the best results, it's recommended to use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like thighs, drumsticks, or breasts. These cuts of chicken tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless, skinless chicken.

Q: Can I make southern fried chicken without a deep fryer?

A: Absolutely! While a deep fryer can make the process of frying oil much easier, you can still make delicious fried chicken using a deep pot or cast-iron skillet filled with oil.

Q: How long should I let the chicken rest before frying?

A: Letting the chicken rest for at least 30 minutes after coating it in the flour mixture allows the coating to adhere to the chicken and helps to create a crispy crust and juicy meat.

Q: Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

A: Yes, you can use other types of oil like vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil. However, be sure to choose an oil with a high smoke point to prevent it from burning during the deep frying process.

Q: How can I make sure my chicken stays crispy?

A: To keep your fried chicken crispy, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying tender chicken, and use a wire rack to let the chicken cool and drain excess oil after frying.

Q: Can I make Southern fried chicken ahead of time?

A: While fried chicken is best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it in the oven. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the chicken for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Q: How Do I Store Leftover Fried Chicken?

A: To properly store leftover fried chicken, follow these steps:

1. Allow the fried chicken to cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour before storing.
2. Place the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Ensure that the container or wrapping is sealed tightly to prevent air exposure and maintain freshness.
3. Store the leftover fried chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure to place it on a shelf rather than in the refrigerator door to maintain a consistent temperature.

Q: What can I do with leftover fried chicken?

A: I personally like to eat it over again but served cold. You can also reheat it and serve again or make a fried chicken sandwich.

By keeping these frequently asked questions in mind, you'll be better equipped to make delicious buttermilk fried chicken that's sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Special Equipment Needed To Make This Black People Fried Chicken Recipe

Most people fry chicken one or two ways. They either fry old-school way in a deep cast iron skillet or use an electric deep fryer. Both are effective in creating deep golden brown chicken with an extra crispy crunch.

Make This Recipe

All in all, it's easy to see why soul food fried chicken is a tradition that will stand the test of time. All it takes is just a few choice ingredients and a hot skillet to create a dish that is truly the essence of comfort food. Although the basic recipe is often enough to satisfy, there are plenty of ways to add your own flavor, from opting for different spices or coating options.

If you make this delicious fried chicken recipe or any other recipe please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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