Southern Fried Chicken Recipe - Better than Popeyes! | I Heart Recipes

buttermilk

🥗Healthier: low-fat yogurt

💰Cheaper: milk + vinegar

Low-fat yogurt maintains tanginess with fewer calories.

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: self-rising flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: canola oil

💰Cheaper: peanut oil

Canola oil is healthier with a higher smoke point.

paprika

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper

Smoked paprika adds flavor without extra cost.

Trim excess skin and fat from chicken thighs and legs.

Wash chicken under cool water.

Brine chicken in buttermilk for 3 hours in the refrigerator.

Remove chicken from buttermilk without rinsing.

Season chicken with poultry seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika, rubbing it into all surfaces.

Set seasoned chicken aside.

In a separate bowl, season flour with white pepper, remaining garlic powder, remaining onion powder, and a little salt, mixing well.

Coat each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, then set aside.

Coat chicken pieces in the flour a second time.

Heat canola oil to 360°F (182°C) in a deep fryer or pan.

Deep fry chicken, avoiding overcrowding the pan for even cooking.

Check for doneness; chicken should be golden brown and moist inside with no blood.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens