Fried chicken can show up in more ways than one—from classic Southern style and spicy Indian versions to air-fried takes and bold sandwich builds. This list covers a wide spread of techniques and flavors, from oven-baked to air fryer crispy, and even crockpot slow-cooked. Whether you’re craving something familiar or ready for a twist, these fried chicken recipes bring all the crunch and flavor you’re looking for—with a few surprises in the mix.
Southern Fried Chicken
This version sticks to tradition with a seasoned flour coating and deep fry that results in golden, crispy skin and juicy meat. It’s all about the crunch and the spice. Serve with biscuits, slaw, or mashed potatoes. A classic that holds up.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Chicken
Air Fryer Fried Chicken
All the crisp of deep-fried chicken without the mess or oil. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the breading a golden, crunchy finish. It’s faster and lighter than frying, but still delivers. Great for everyday cooking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Chicken pakora – indian fried chicken
This spiced version features chicken pieces coated in a chickpea flour batter and deep fried until crisp. The flavor is bold, earthy, and just a little spicy. Serve with chutneys or as part of a snack platter. A fun twist with real depth.
Get the Recipe: Chicken pakora – indian fried chicken
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Soaking chicken in buttermilk makes the meat tender and flavorful before it hits the hot oil. The crust is thick, craggy, and loaded with flavor. Serve hot with a side of pickles or cold the next day. Hard to beat for texture.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Oven Fried Chicken
This baked version mimics the texture of fried chicken by using high heat and a seasoned crumb coating. It’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Less mess and easier cleanup. A good option when you want fried without frying.
Get the Recipe: Oven Fried Chicken
Fried Chicken Tacos
Crunchy fried chicken pieces are tucked into warm tortillas with slaw, sauce, or pickles. It’s handheld, crispy, and loaded with contrast. Swap in hot sauce or chipotle mayo. A street food vibe made at home.
Get the Recipe: Fried Chicken Tacos
Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken
Combines the seasoning of classic Southern fried chicken with the quick crisping of the air fryer. The result is flavorful, juicy, and golden in less time. Perfect for weeknight meals. Serve with cornbread or mac and cheese.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken
The Best Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Crispy fried chicken is layered with slaw, pickles, and sauce on a soft bun. The contrast between juicy meat and crunch makes this sandwich hard to put down. Serve hot, press gently, and don’t skip the sauce. Great for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: The Best Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
KFC Fried Chicken
This copycat recipe recreates the famous fast food version with a secret spice blend and crunchy crust. It’s salty, savory, and deeply satisfying. Pair it with mashed potatoes and gravy for the full effect. A nostalgic classic done at home.
Get the Recipe: KFC Fried Chicken
Goat Cheese Fried Chicken with Cherry Sauce
A bold twist that pairs creamy goat cheese–stuffed chicken with a crispy coating and sweet cherry sauce. The combination is sharp, rich, and unexpected. Great for a more elevated dinner. Serve with greens or roasted vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Goat Cheese Fried Chicken with Cherry Sauce
Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Marinated in buttermilk, then air-fried to golden perfection, this version brings tenderness and crunch together. The outside gets crispy while the inside stays juicy. Easier than deep frying, but just as satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken
This version features double-fried-style crispiness with a sticky, spicy-sweet Korean sauce. The air fryer gives it texture without oil, and the sauce brings the heat. Serve with rice or pickled veggies. Big flavor, fast finish.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken
Ramen Fried Chicken
Chicken gets coated in crushed ramen noodles for a super crisp, crunchy crust that’s full of texture. It’s playful, bold, and hard to ignore. Serve with dipping sauce or on a sandwich. A twist that works surprisingly well.
Get the Recipe: Ramen Fried Chicken
Oven Fried Chicken Drumsticks
These drumsticks bake with a seasoned crumb coating until golden and crisp. The skin crisps up without frying, and the meat stays juicy. Simple to prep and easy to clean up. Good for meal prepping or batch cooking.
Get the Recipe: Oven Fried Chicken Drumsticks
