Crispy edges, golden coating, and irresistible flavor come together in this collection of fried favorites. Every recipe offers its own take on that satisfying crunch—whether it’s a snack, a side, or a hearty main dish. The flavors are bold, the textures addictive, and the results consistently crave-worthy. With simple steps and crowd-pleasing appeal, each dish brings the kind of comfort only fried food can deliver. Perfect for sharing… or keeping all to yourself.

Fried Okra

Fried Okra. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Lightly breaded okra turns wonderfully crisp while keeping its tender inside. It’s a simple Southern classic that works well as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. The flavor is comforting, familiar, and easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Fried Okra

Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

A straightforward method delivers crispy, flavorful fried chicken without the need for buttermilk or eggs. Seasoned flour and a hot skillet create a crust that’s light, crunchy, and satisfying. It’s a family-tested recipe passed down through generations and always turns out dependable, delicious results.
Get the Recipe: Southern Fried Chicken

Fried Apple Pies

Fried Apple Pies. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Golden, flaky crust surrounds a warm, cinnamon-laced apple filling. Every bite feels nostalgic and comforting, especially when enjoyed fresh from the pan. A cherished recipe that brings homemade flavor to any table.
Get the Recipe: Fried Apple Pies

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

A basket of fried chicken pieces and fries on newspaper-themed paper, placed on a wooden table with a side of seasonings.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Not Entirely Average.

A tangy buttermilk soak keeps every piece of chicken juicy and tender. The seasoned crust fries up extra crunchy with unforgettable flavor. It’s a standout recipe that delivers impressive results every time.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Fried Marinated Tofu

A bowl of soup with a spoon in it.
Fried Marinated Tofu. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

A flavorful marinade infuses tofu with savory depth before cooking. The tofu crisps beautifully whether air-fried, baked, or pan-fried. It’s a versatile vegan staple that works in bowls, tacos, salads, and more.
Get the Recipe: Fried Marinated Tofu

Pan-Fried Dumplings

Crispy-bottom pan-fried dumplings with juicy and savory fillings on a black plate with a sauce on the side.
Pan-Fried Dumplings. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Dumplings are seared until the bottoms turn crisp and golden while the tops stay soft and tender. Each bite brings a balance of texture and flavorful filling. Great for snacks, meals, or party platters.
Get the Recipe: Pan-Fried Dumplings

Deep Fried Pickles

A plate with deep fried pickles and spicy ranch sauce.
Deep Fried Pickles. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

A crunchy coating surrounds the tangy burst of dill pickles for an irresistible appetizer. They fry up crisp and golden, delivering restaurant-level flavor at home. Perfect for parties, snacking, or game-day spreads.
Get the Recipe: Deep Fried Pickles

KFC Fried Chicken

A hand holding a piece of fried chicken.
KFC Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

A homemade version of the iconic fast-food favorite brings crispy, flavorful chicken right to your kitchen. The seasonings create an unmistakable taste that fans will recognize. It’s an easy recipe that satisfies every craving.
Get the Recipe: KFC Fried Chicken

Deep Fried Mac and Cheese

A deep fried macaroni and cheese ball being dipped in marinara.
Deep Fried Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Creamy macaroni and melted cheese are shaped, coated, and fried until crisp. The contrast of crunchy outside and gooey center is pure comfort. A fun appetizer that always disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Deep Fried Mac and Cheese

Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak topped with white gravy.
Chicken Fried Steak. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

Tenderized steak is triple-dipped for an extra crispy crust that stays crunchy even under gravy. The creamy white sauce adds rich, classic Southern comfort. It’s a satisfying homemade favorite that’s easy to master.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Steak

Fried Deviled Eggs

A white plate with fried deviled eggs, garnished with herbs, is shown with salt and pepper shakers, plates, forks, and a cloth in the background.
Fried Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

A crispy coating adds a fun twist to the classic deviled egg. The contrast of crunchy exterior and creamy yolk filling makes each bite exciting. Ideal for potlucks, parties, and appetizers that spark conversation.
Get the Recipe: Fried Deviled Eggs

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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