Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken Recipe (UK Adaptation)

Southern fried chicken is a classic dish that is loved for its crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat. This recipe has been adapted for a UK audience, using ingredients that are easily accessible. Enjoy this delicious meal with your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken cut into pieces (or the equivalent in legs, thighs, wings, or a mix)

• 500 ml buttermilk (or 500 ml milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar added)

• 200 g plain flour

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

2. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the plain flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken on a wire rack or plate.

4. Heat the Oil: In a large, deep frying pan or Dutch oven, heat about 5 cm of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of bread in; it should sizzle and turn golden brown.

5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F).

6. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain excess oil. Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your southern fried chicken with classic sides such as:

• Coleslaw

• Mashed potatoes

• Biscuits or cornbread

• Gravy

• Sweet corn

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken

• For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.

• Let the coated chicken rest for about 15 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.

• Keep the fried chicken warm in a low oven while you cook the remaining batches.

Enjoy your homemade southern fried chicken, a true comfort food that brings the taste of the South to your kitchen!