10 Simple Secrets to the Perfect Fried Chicken

Unlock the secrets to the crispiest, juiciest fried chicken you’ve ever tasted! We’ll take you through 10 simple steps, from selecting the perfect chicken to mastering the frying technique that will elevate your fried chicken game to new heights. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic Southern comfort food done right.

Secret #1: Start with the Best

A person uses a knife to cut raw chicken parts on a pink cutting board. — Image Credit: depositphotos.

Choose a small, organic chicken and have your butcher cut it up for you. The smaller the chicken, the more tender and flavorful the meat will be.

Get the recipe: Granny’s Fried Chicken

Secret #2: Brine for Flavor

A metal bowl filled with a creamy mixture containing small, scattered chunks of food, placed on a wooden surface. — Image Credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Optional: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk or pickle juice overnight. This step will make the chicken extra juicy and tender and help infuse it with flavor.

Secret #3: Air Dry for Crispness

Raw, seasoned chicken pieces on a cutting board. — Image Credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Pat the chicken dry and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before frying. This will help the skin to crisp up nicely.

Secret #4: Double Dip for a Thicker Crust

Raw chicken strips in a bowl of buttermilk next to a bowl of flour mixture with a pair of tongs. — Image Credit: Southern Food and Fun.

If you want a thicker crust, dip the chicken pieces in buttermilk or egg, then dredge them in flour. This double-dipping method will create a thick, crispy crust that will stay put during frying.

Secret #5: Spice It Up

A metal mixing bowl containing flour with a sprinkling of black pepper. — Image Credit: Southern Food and Fun.

While traditional Southern fried chicken uses salt and pepper as the seasoning, you can add your favorite seasonings to the flour, such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. The flour is your canvas for flavor, so get creative!

Secret #6: Dredge and Rest

Raw chicken pieces coated with flour and seasoning, arranged on a light-colored surface, ready for cooking. — Image Credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture again, coating it evenly. Then, let it rest for a few minutes before frying. This will help the crust to adhere to the chicken and prevent it from falling off during frying.

Secret #7: Heat the Oil

A cast iron skillet containing oil is heating on a stovetop, with a wooden cutting board and other kitchen items in the background. — Image Credit: depositphotos.

Add oil with a high smoke point (peanut oil is a good choice) to a cast iron skillet and heat it over medium-high heat to 350 degrees F. The right oil and temperature are key to achieving that perfect golden brown crust.

Secret #8: Fry to Perfection

Four pieces of crispy fried chicken cooking in a black cast-iron skillet on a stove. — Image Credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Fry the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at a steady 350 degrees F. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (165 degrees F internal temperature).

Secret #9: Drain and Serve

Three pieces of fried chicken on a cooling rack with paper towels underneath. — Image Credit: depositphotos.

Drain the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, not a plate lined with paper towels. Serve hot, or let it cool to room temperature for a picnic or outdoor gathering.